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Julia Watson
Julia Watson, an Australian of Greco-Egyptian descent, is a specialist in traditional ecological knowledge and author of Lo—TEK Design by Radical Indigenism (2019) and Lo—TEK Water A Fieldguide for TEKnologists (2025). Her work highlights Indigenous technologies that promote ecological resilience. Raised in Australia, where Aboriginal knowledge is integrated into education, she advocates globally for the inclusion of Indigenous science. A Harvard-trained landscape architect, she has taught at Columbia, RISD, and Harvard.
Julia co-founded the Lo—TEK Institute, which uplifts generational wisdom through nature-based education. She co-created Living Earth, an Indigenous-led curriculum and database launched in 2024 to support STEM education. Julia also co-leads the Lo—TEK Office for Intercultural Urbanism, a transdisciplinary studio advancing regenerative cities through traditional knowledge—centering reciprocity and respect to shape climate-resilient, culturally grounded urban futures.
“The World Around creates space for the voices and visions we urgently need—those that challenge dominant narratives and center regenerative, Indigenous, and ecological futures. Being part of this community reinforces my belief that design can be a powerful force for reciprocity, restoration, and cultural continuity. What gives me hope is the growing recognition that ancient knowledge systems hold keys to solving our most pressing environmental challenges—and that we're finally listening.”
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