Why every leader needs a creative disruptor | Irene Koel | TEDxUniversiteitVanAmsterdam
Irene Koel worked for 25 years in marketing, advertising, innovation, and product development. Ten years ago, she transitioned to social innovation and founded The Zooooo, which provides creativity and innovation support for various sectors undergoing transformation. Together with her clients, she co-creates new, innovative concepts while driving cultural change. Irene also volunteers as a mentor and board member for several social enterprises (to earn some karma points!), including Women on Wings in India (a pro bono business consultancy), Interacting (an improv theaterschool for young people with autism), and Circus Andersom (a collective of social designers). Her podcast, MonkeyTalk, which focuses on creativity, ranks among the top 20 most-listened-to management podcasts.Ten years ago, Irene switched from being a ‘commercial creative’ to a ‘societal creative.’ In this talk, it's time to reflect. Throughout this journey, she has come to understand the power of disarmament and what it means to play the role of a jester in a business environment. Being disarming helps create an atmosphere of openness and trust—the birthplace of creativity and change. This is achieved through humor, authenticity, wonder, and heartfelt communication.In this transitional era, every boardroom needs a jester—someone who dares to challenge conventions, expose blind spots, and spark fresh thinking. A well-placed joke or unexpected perspective can cut through corporate inertia and unlock new possibilities. With this talk, Irene hopes to awaken the jester within you. And if not: you know where to find her.Irene Koel worked for 25 years in marketing, advertising, innovation, and product development. Ten years ago, she transitioned to social innovation and founded The Zooooo, which provides creativity and innovation support for various sectors undergoing transformation. Together with their clients, they co-create new, innovative concepts while driving cultural change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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