APF Fridays: Membership Re-imagined

About the session: Membership Re-imagined

Ingrid concluded her Master’s in Foresight at the University of Houston with a capstone project exploring the Future of Membership for Professional Associations.

This study aims to offer foresight guidance to professional associations amidst contemporary challenges surrounding membership decline and retention. Initially, this project targeted the Association for Material Protection and Performance –AMPP- where the author used to work as a membership engagement specialist. However, with further exploration of the theme, this project can easily be expanded and pitched to other professional associations, given the broad and core issues identified. 

It explores the dynamic landscape of evolving member values, inadequate responses to their needs, and the increasing demand for enhanced engagement. Notably, the study addresses the complexities introduced by technological advancements and the varied dynamics within intergenerational membership bodies which encompass distinct worldviews and economic differences. 

The presentation for APF aims to shed light on key development challenges and explore potential strategic pivots the association can make toward a preferred future.

Our Speaker:

Ingrid Furtado

Ingrid is a double award-winning futurist recognized for her collective work on experiential futures by the Association of Professional Futurists (APF). As a foresighter, Ingrid assists organizations and communities in navigating change and uncertainties, shaping a path toward sustainable and preferable futures. 

In addition to her achievements, she has served as an award liaison and membership engagement specialist for a global professional association, headquartered in Houston, Texas. 

Based on her experience and passion for the field, Ingrid decided to volunteer at APF and has been an active member of the Recognition Committee since 2023.

Ingrid holds a Master of Science in Foresight from the University of Houston and a BA in Journalism from Pontifical Catholic University (PUC- Minas), Brazil.

Member-only event