Sheila Pontis

I’m Sheila, a Researcher and Professor in imagination, wellbeing, and design, advocating for a world rooted in imagination and optimism. With over 25+ years of international experience leading higher education and professional practice, I explore the intersection of imagination, human potential, and the conditions that help people flourish in uncertain times. I work with individuals, communities, and organizations to unlock their potential and deliberately engage with imagination to envision individual and social transformative futures.

My background spans information design, human-centered research, Creative Problem Solving, mindfulness, and positive psychology. Together, they shaped my unique approach to imagination from the inside out.

My professional journey encompasses leadership roles in higher education, research, and industry. Through the Everyone Imagines Project, I bring together my transdisciplinary expertise to provide a transformative experience and tailored training for individuals and communities seeking to embed imagination into their life and organizations to lead positive change in the world.

Vision

My vision is a world where imagination and flourishing are integral to each aspect of life and as high priority as work on other domains, such as climate change, AI, existential risk, politics. I envision a more creative, healthier society in which each individual feels empowered to imagine their dream life and is a life-long learner.

Mission

My mission is to empower individuals and communities to reconnect with their potential and harness their imagination. Through a blend of mindfulness-based and reflective practices, wellbeing positive interventions, experiential exercises, and hands-on creativity activities, I guide people to journey inwards, identify their barriers, and experience the transformative benefits of imagination for mental and physical health as well as confidently apply learnings into their life, work, organization, or community to build their envisioned future. 

Approach

My work is rooted in the integrated Discover, Imagine, Create Approach that empowers individuals and communities from inside out. Steps 1 and 2 are common to every learner; Step 3 is tailored to the needs of each individual or group and their domain of practice.