James Capon
James is inspired by the late Sir Ken Robinson, whose insights into education remain more relevant than ever. He resonates with Robinson’s comparison of traditional schooling to a 19th-century assembly line: rigid, standardized, and focused on uniformity rather than nurturing individual talents or passions. James believes that while this model may have suited the Industrial Age, it fails to prepare students for today’s creative, fast-changing world.
To thrive in the future, James advocates for learners to develop flexibility, adaptability, and what Sir Ken called “applied imagination.” This means going beyond rote memorization to synthesize ideas, challenge assumptions, and innovate. He sees educational technology as a key driver for transforming learning environments—personalizing education, breaking down subject silos, and encouraging curiosity and collaboration.
Drawing from over two decades at Levi Strauss, James has seen firsthand how creativity and business intersect. He rose through the ranks learning how efficiency and innovation can coexist, and how companies can balance profit with purpose. Now, as an advisor to organizations across industries, he is a strong proponent of evolving education to equip future generations with the tools to shape a better world.
