Kestrel Jenkins - The Futures Interview - all that we are (fka the future is beautiful)

Think Act Vote (?!X) Futures Interview Artwork by Vicky Fallon

Kestrel Lee Jenkins is a globetrotter with a small-town Wisconsin spirit. She loves words and garments, and shifting both of their juxtapositions. She has worked with People Tree, Global Action Through Fashion, FashionMeGreen, Fashioning Change, The GreenShows, and Ecouterre. Fashion is her favorite way to share stories. For her, it’s a way to reflect her respect for people and the planet that goes far beyond the garments and into the depths of her lifestyle.

?!X: What’s the Future You Choose?

KL: The future that I choose is based on honesty, transparency and good intentions. It is a place where we can trust in those around us to give us the entire story. Also, it is a place in which we each realize that by thinking through our individual processes of creating our own story, we can positively affect people and the planet along the way. It is a thoughtful place, where through conscious actions, we can treat people and the planet with respect.

?!X: What’s a ‘think’ to create this future?

KL: My ‘think’ to create this future is featured in Half the Sky by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. In 2006, as the UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan said, “It is impossible to realize our goals while discriminating against half the human race. As study after study has taught us, there is no tool in development more effective than the empowerment of women.” And I have chills…every time I read this.

?!X: What’s an ‘act’ to create the future you choose

KL: My “act” to create this future is based on maintaining an intimacy with the clothing that I purchase. I want to know where garments came from, who has been affected by them, and where they’ve travelled before arriving onto my body. I want to understand that people and the environment were not harmed throughout their production, and feel confident that my purchase has been positive for people and the planet.

?!X: What’s a ‘vote’ to create the future you choose?

KL: My ‘vote’ to create this future is through spreading awareness about conscious and fair fashion, and acting upon that vote through my purchasing power.

?!X: Future Soundtrack – What song would you take with you into the future?

KL:

My favorite song is “Women of Hope” by Morley.

It continues to inspire me and reminds me of my “think” and the importance of female empowerment.