2025-03-16 –, Main Stage
Less than 1% of eukaryotic species have been mapped—meaning we risk losing not only species but also centuries of evolutionary intelligence before we even understand their full significance.
Wise Ancestors is pioneering a new model of conservation that bridges genomic sequencing, Indigenous knowledge, and decentralized collaboration.
WE AIM TO ADDRESS THE EXTINCTION CRISIS WITH BIOTECHNOLOGY, INDIGENOUS SCIENCE, TRADITIONAL ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE, AND UNPRECEDENTED COLLABORATION.
Wise Ancestors is committed to co-creating and developing species-specific research projects (ie. “Conservation Challenges”) with Indigenous Peoples (IP) and Local Communities (LC) for the purpose of producing genomic information, strengthening IP and LC conservation efforts, and supporting Indigenous data sovereignty.
Our goal is to contribute to worldwide efforts to significantly slow the rate of biodiversity loss while uplifting IP and LC leadership.
We are dedicated to building genuine relationships with Indigenous Peoples, Local Communities and researchers around the world to co-develop Conservation Challenges, raise funds, recruit collaborators and coordinate their work of sequencing and biobanking in a decentralized manner, while building a resource and education hub.
Together we can accelerate IP and LC- driven conservation initiatives and genomic research that protects biodiversity for a beautiful, abundant, and resilient future.
Aleksandra Smilek is a foresight strategist and creative director with a decade of experience designing and implementing innovative solutions at the intersection of science, technology, and culture. Her career includes roles across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States, reflecting her global perspective and ability to navigate diverse contexts.
Aleksandra previously worked as a strategist at the Auditoire agency and now consults for various tech and science organizations through her organization Nodes. She consult for the Foresight Institute, Protocol Labs, Molecule.xyz, Accenture, Dassault Systèmes, Cartier, Mauboussin, and Intel.
Passionate about enhancing the accessibility and interactivity of scientific dialogue, Aleksandra applies her expertise to build tools and frameworks that empower researchers to share data and insights more effectively.