Unlocking Creativity Through Play: Pop CoLab's Inspiring Collaboration with Rachel Davis

Meeting Rachel Davis was a transformative experience that reshaped my perception to workshop facilitation. Our paths first crossed during a LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® seminar, an environment already brimming with creativity and innovation. Even in such a setting, Rachel's unique approach and infectious enthusiasm stood out, leaving an indelible mark on me.​

Rachel is a distinguished Workshop Experience Designer and Facilitator with over 18 years of expertise in design thinking, brand strategy, and creative facilitation. Her philosophy centers on the belief that play (however you define it or call it) is the gateway to our most audacious ideas. This conviction is evident in the immersive experiences she crafts, each infused with joy and energy, encouraging participants to transcend conventional boundaries and embrace their innate creativity. 

Her accolades are a testament to her impact in the field. In 2023, Rachel was honoured as the Miro Changemaker of the Year, recognizing her innovative contributions to collaborative design. She is also an integral part of the Butter Expert Collective and serves as the ButterMixer Co-Lead, roles that underscore her commitment to advancing facilitation practices. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Rachel and I share a personal connection as fellow neurodivergents. This shared experience has deepened my appreciation for her methodologies, which are inherently inclusive and designed to resonate with diverse cognitive perspectives. Her workshops don't just accommodate different ways of thinking; they celebrate them, creating spaces where every participant feels valued and understood.​

Exploring Rachel's body of work is both inspiring and enlightening. Her website serves as a gateway to many resources, including insightful articles, innovative templates, and recordings of her dynamic sessions. Particularly noteworthy are her contributions to the Miroverse, where she has shared templates like the "Ice Melter - This or That Alien Style" and "Warm Up - Miro Newbie to Ninja," which also inspired me to up my Miro game.

Rachel's dedication to fostering creativity extends to her writings on Medium, where she delves into topics ranging from card deck reviews to techniques for unlocking creative potential. Her articles are not only informative but also reflect her passion for empowering others to embrace play and curiosity in their professional endeavours. 

As I continue my journey with Pop CoLab, and bringing support for our facilitators, I am genuinely excited about the prospect of learning from Rachel. Her innovative approaches and unwavering commitment to joyful, inclusive facilitation are qualities that I aspire to embody and integrate into our initiatives. Collaborating with her offers an opportunity to elevate our facilitators' skills, ensuring that we create environments where creativity and engagement flourish.​

In essence, Rachel Davis is not just a facilitator; she is a catalyst for transformation. Her work serves as a beacon for those seeking to infuse their workshops with wonder, energy, and meaningful engagement. I am honoured to have crossed paths with her and look forward to the myriad ways her influence will shape the future of facilitation at Pop CoLab.

Oh, and check out Rachel's Substack