What the Project Is
Dumbo Feather has evolved into a living community of engaged citizens co-creating a hopeful future through the work of Small Giants Academy. For twenty years, Dumbo Feather shared the stories of extraordinary people to enrich lives and inspire change. It all began when Kate Bezar, back in 2003, strolled by a newsagent searching for inspiration and ended up with nothing – until that very moment sparked the creation of the magazine she wanted to read. “I basically dreamed up my dream job and it was extraordinary,” she recalled, and that spark has grown into something truly remarkable.
Main Benefit
- Provided a unique platform for changemakers, leaders, artists, writers, lawyers, activists, philosophers, teachers, builders, and scientists.
- Celebrated two decades of rich storytelling, capturing the hearts and minds of a diverse audience.
- Transitioned from a printed artefact to a dynamic, interactive digital community under the Small Giants Academy banner.
- Underwent a significant evolution in 2011 after Kate returned to New Zealand, shifting focus towards sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives as the Director of The Better Packaging Co.
- Reached a landmark moment in 2023 with Dumbo Feather issue #72 – ‘Leadership for a hopeful future’ – marking the evolution of the magazine into a continuous community effort.
Community Legacy
From the very first issue, Dumbo Feather provided a heartfelt platform for people to tell their own stories. The publication featured individuals who, while not necessarily famous, were innovators using their unique craft to build toward their vision for a better world. Whether through leadership, creative pursuits, or scientific inquiry, the community consistently showcased the everyday heroes shaping our collective future. It is a story of evolution and legacy – one that continues to touch lives and ignite conversations across different generations.
Digital Transformation
Under the nurturing leadership of Berry Liberman, a long-time fan and friend of the magazine, Dumbo Feather embraced the digital era with open arms. Berry, along with her Family Office at Small Giants, steered the project towards digital platforms, engaging the community more deeply and opening new channels such as podcasts and interactive online discussions. This shift brought about a dynamic conversation about leadership and innovation, making it easier to connect with a broader audience in today’s fast-paced world… The transformation means that Dumbo Feather is no longer confined to printed pages, but is now an ever-growing, living digital community.
Inspiration & Evolution
It all started with a spark. In 2003, Kate Bezar experienced a moment of true inspiration when she picked up empty-handed at a newsagent. That minor disappointment turned into a catalyst for change, leading her to create the magazine she always wished existed. Over the years, Dumbo Feather became synonymous with sharing the stories of remarkable individuals – not just the famous, but the everyday changemakers who strived for a better future. Evolving with each passing year, the project seamlessly fused creative storytelling with a mission to inspire social change.
Project Impact – Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Fostering knowledge sharing and lifelong learning among a diverse community.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Championing innovation through dynamic storytelling and evolving media platforms.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Building and nurturing local and global communities for a more hopeful future.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Highlighting eco-friendly practices and sustainability, especially through initiatives like The Better Packaging Co.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Promoting awareness of environmental sustainability through practical leadership and innovation.
Looking Forward
The journey of Dumbo Feather is far from over – it is a living, breathing success story of evolution and community engagement. With memories of printed pages giving way to vibrant digital dialogues, Dumbo Feather continues to scour the world, engaging in rich conversations with extraordinary people whose stories matter. Today, the legacy of audacious beginnings lives on through the Small Giants Academy, co-creating a future filled with hope, purpose, and sustainability. It is a project that stands as a testament to the power of shared storytelling and a reminder that sometimes, the smallest spark of inspiration can lead to an extraordinary future…
