Global Futures

We are at a crucial point in history, with our world characterised by structural and personal transformations resulting from global mobilities; political reconfigurations, alliances and conflicts; technological innovations including social media, AI and data security challenges; populist political and influencer leadership that reaches beyond national borders; economic disruptions and wealth disparities; food insecurity; climate shocks and environmental opportunities; novel moral dilemmas, aesthetic contestations and human rights challenges; and more. 

What does the future hold? And how can we be part of making it better?

The Global Futures Platform applies rigorous thinking to the world’s most pressing challenges in international and intercultural relations, environmental awareness, communication, media, creative practice, accessibility, and education.  In partnerships between staff, students, community, industry and policy makers, we pursue effective ways to create a safer, more just, globally connected world.

Global Futures works across Curtin’s global campuses to build global and regional awareness and action through teaching and challenge-based learning, research and engagement activities.

Global Futures Student Research

Analysing Virtual Influencers: Celebrity, Authenticity & Identity on Social Media 

PhD Student in the Curtin School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, Rachel Berryman is exploring an emergent social media phenomenon known as “virtual influencers”. These fictitious characters are typically created with computer-generated animation, and are designed to accumulate audiences on social media, and promote messages or commercial partnerships.