The new OS--from a Futurists Perspective

In Episode 7, Chris Hoffman is joined by Paula Gil Baizan (Principal, Something Meaningful) and Ben Holt (Principal, New and Useful) for a candid conversation on what the humanitarian sector needs next after a brutal 2025: is this a “reset” — or a complete redo?

Paula argues we’re running on an outdated operating system built for predictable funding, stable access, and clear mandates — and those assumptions no longer hold. Ben reframes strategic foresight as a tool for action under uncertainty (not prediction), and asks the tougher question: if the sector’s “hardware” (institutions, incentives, hubs) can’t move fast enough, what new coalitions and models will emerge?

They get practical on what individuals can do right now: ground in values, prioritise dignity over scale, build networks of trust, and be honest about power and trade-offs. They also discuss “grief” and anger in legacy systems — and how to channel that energy into purpose-driven change, not institutional survival.

What we cover:

• Futures/foresight for humanitarian decision-making
• Values-based leadership in volatile environments
• Localization, power, dignity, and trust
• From legacy institutions to new models of aid

Links:

• Paula / Something Meaningful: https://www.somethingmeaningful.co/ (somethingmeaningful.co)
• Paula LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulagilbaizan/
• Ben / New and Useful: https://www.newanduseful.co.uk/
• Ben LinkedIn (quick find): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-holt-innovation/

keywords: future of humanitarian action, strategic foresight, humanitarian innovation, localization, dignity, systems change, humanitarian leadership, resilience.