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Stretch

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Stretch

I empower businesses to think differently about the future and its profound connection to the choices we make today.

My Services

I don’t do rigid, one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead Stretch offers a flexible, tailored and dynamic approach to engaging with any leadership ecosystem.

 

My
Biography

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John Vary is one of the world’s most accomplished practitioners in futurology and innovation. Recognised as one of the 20 most sought-after futurists, John spent ten years as the futurologist of the John Lewis Partnership, playing a pivotal role in helping their senior leadership anticipate and navigate rapid technological and societal shifts.​  

Awarded an honorary doctorate by Kingston University for his contributions to their Future Skills strategy, John supported the integration of essential future skills across the curriculum.  

Based in London, John’s unique perspective is shaped by his experience of neurodiversity which fuels his drive to constructively challenge conventional thinking. His work champions diversity of thought and is dedicated to unlocking human and organisational potential.

Be Inspired

Explore a curated selection of my keynote speeches, where I challenge conventional thinking, share personal stories, and spark bold ideas for the future. From my journey growing up with dyslexia and ADHD to uncovering the skills and mindsets we need to thrive, these talks are designed to inspire, provoke, and empower.

 

Whether I’m speaking about creativity, innovation, or the intersection of humanity and technology, each keynote invites you to think differently, act decisively, and imagine new possibilities.

 

Dive in and discover how we can shape the future—together.

My Journey to an Honorary Doctorate | Kingston University
08:25
In this deeply personal and inspiring speech, I reflect on my journey to receiving an Honorary Doctorate from Kingston University—a moment that feels both humbling and full of meaning. Growing up in South London with dyslexia and ADHD, I faced challenges that often made me feel like an outsider in traditional education. Yet, those experiences shaped me into a thinker, dreamer, and explorer of what’s possible. In this address, I share: My story: From working as a barrow boy in Peckham to becoming a futurologist committed to unlocking human potential. The power of difference: How embracing neurodiversity and thinking differently led to breakthroughs in my life and work. A message for the next generation: Why continuous learning, curiosity, and bold thinking are the keys to shaping the future. This speech is a celebration of resilience, individuality, and the potential in all of us to imagine and create a better world—no matter where we start. To the graduates, educators, and changemakers: Let this be a reminder that the most transformative ideas often come from those who see the world differently. 👉 If you believe in the power of human potential, this one’s for you. 🔔 Subscribe for more talks on futures thinking, creativity, and embracing what makes us unique. 👍 Like, share, and comment to continue the conversation about diversity, learning, and possibility. Credit: Kingston University
Designing Tomorrow: What Matters Most to a Futurologist | John Vary Keynote at CHEAD
19:45
In this thought-provoking keynote at the Council for Higher Education in Art and Design (CHEAD), I explore the values, ideas, and questions that guide my work as a futurologist. From my neurodiverse journey—growing up with dyslexia and ADHD—to my experiences uncovering hidden opportunities in industries and beyond, I reflect on why imagination, creativity, and diversity of thought are more important than ever in shaping the future. Speaking to educators, students, and leaders in art and design, I challenge conventional thinking and invite the audience to consider: How creativity can unlock bold solutions for a complex world Why diversity of thought is vital for innovation How human-centred futures require collaboration between imagination and technology I share the principles that guide me: curiosity, exploration, and the relentless pursuit of what’s possible. Key Themes: 🎨 The role of art and design in imagining new futures 🧠 Embracing neurodiversity to fuel innovation 🔮 How we can think boldly and act decisively to create meaningful change today This keynote is an invitation to wonder, explore, and create. Because the most exciting possibilities begin when we question what’s been done and dare to stretch the limits of what’s next. 👉 If you believe in the power of art, design, and creative thinking to shape the world, this talk is for you.
From Barrow Boy to Futurologist: Dyslexia, ADHD, and the Skills for Tomorrow | John Vary Keynote
14:33
Description: In this inspiring keynote for National Apprenticeships Week 2024 at the John Lewis Partnership, I share my personal journey—from working as a barrow boy in South London to becoming a leading futurologist and innovation strategist. Growing up with dyslexia and ADHD, I experienced the challenges of being seen as "different" in a world that values conventional learning. Yet, those very differences became my strengths, helping me think differently, explore boldly, and see possibilities others might miss. This talk celebrates the power of apprenticeships, neurodiversity, and hands-on learning to unlock hidden potential. I also explore the most important skills for the future—skills like creativity, adaptability, and collaboration—and why businesses must invest in the next generation to navigate an uncertain, rapidly changing world. What you’ll hear: ✨ My journey from South London streets to the world stage 🧠 How neurodiversity fuels creativity and innovation 🚀 The essential future skills we all need to thrive 💡 Why apprenticeships are critical to unlocking untapped talent A message of hope, possibility, and action—for apprentices, educators, and businesses alike. 👉 If you believe in seeing potential where others might not, this talk is for you.
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