Mentors, Real and Imaginary: Who BOLD Innovators Look Up
Innovation is often sparked by inspiration, with mentors playing a crucial role in shaping our visions. In this article, we explore the views of three BOLD community members on their ideal innovative mentors. From science, technology to space exploration, these individuals reveal their inspirational figures. They provide insights into their thought processes and aspirations, highlighting the mentors that fuel their endeavors. The question posed to them:
If you could choose any innovator (real or fictional) as a mentor, who would it be and why?
#1 INNOVATIVE
In a recent interview with the BOLD community, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dani Clode, the Head Designer and Senior Technical Specialist at the Plasticity Lab, Cambridge University. As an augmentation designer, Clode explores the concept of the future body, pushing boundaries and sparking innovation.
Clode chose Edna Mode, the superhero fashion designer from the movie The Incredibles. Clode admires Mode's scientific, technical, and material genius, all wrapped up with a flair for fashion. She believes that Mode's ability to create costumes capable of withstanding the rigors of superheroic activities reflects an incredible wealth of knowledge. According to Clode, it would be amazing to develop work under the guidance of such a mentor. Attached is a glimpse of Clode and her inspiring fictional mentor, Edna Mode.
#2 FUTURISTIC
Mark Fingerhuth, the Co-Founder and Head of Research & Development at ProteinQure is at the forefront of revolutionizing protein therapeutics through quantum software engineering.
Fingerhuth also chose a fictional character, an unconventional yet exciting mentor - Rick Sanchez from the popular TV show Rick & Morty. Fingerhuth admires Sanchez for his super intelligence, independence, and ability to work on futuristic technology. Fingerhuth finds Sanchez all-around inspiring and envisions him as an interesting person to exchange ideas with over a coffee. Here's a snapshot of Fingerhuth, alongside the innovative mind he aspires to learn from, Rick Sanchez.
#3 VISIONARY
Best known for her prototype of an artificial womb, Lisa Mandemaker's remarkable contributions have secured her a spot in the BBC’s 2019 list of 100 Inspiring and Influential Women. So, who does the designer look up to?
Mandemaker chose Lucy McRae, a renowned Sci Fi Artist and Body Architectan who is based in Los Angeles. McRae pioneers a new story for how future technologies will fundamentally alter human intimacy, reproduction, spirituality, biology and health — shining light on the ethical implications of genetic engineering. She is keen to investigate the impact future technologies have on human evolution.