Activity 5:Personal Reflections on the Professional Future-Mavis O. Olorunyomi

(Inspired by Yuval Noah Harari on Impact Theory)

After watching Yuval Noah Harari’s interview on Impact Theory, I was both amazed and challenged by how relevant his message is to my future as a materials engineer working in the field of circular economy. Harari spoke about how human beings today are “hackable animals”, how technology and data can read and even predict our choices better than we can ourselves. At first, this sounded alarming, but it made me realize something deeper: in a world driven by artificial intelligence and constant change, understanding myself and staying adaptable are more important than ever.

Harari highlighted two key skills that will define success in the 21st century: self-understanding and mental flexibility. These ideas connect directly to my field. In materials engineering, innovation never stops; new materials, green technologies, and sustainable processes emerge all the time. What I learn today might be replaced tomorrow by a more efficient, eco-friendly alternative. This means I need to constantly update my knowledge, stay curious, and be willing to question old methods. Flexibility isn’t just a personal trait anymore; it’s a professional necessity.

In the context of the circular economy, Harari’s point about “reinvention” also hit home. Circular systems aim to rethink how we use resources, designing materials, products, and processes that can be reused, repaired, or recycled rather than wasted. That mindset itself requires constant reinvention and critical thinking. Just like individuals must learn to adapt, industries must also redesign themselves to work in cycles rather than in linear ways. I see a strong parallel between personal and environmental sustainability; both depend on awareness, reflection, and resilience.

Another thing that stayed with me is Harari’s warning about outsourcing our self-awareness to technology. As engineers, it’s easy to rely too heavily on data and algorithms to make decisions. But Harari reminded me that true progress depends on human judgment, empathy, ethics, and creativity; qualities that machines can’t replicate. In the circular economy, this balance is especially important: designing sustainable solutions requires both technical expertise and a deep understanding of social and environmental impact.

In conclusion, Harari’s message helped me see that my professional future will be shaped not only by what I know, but by how I adapt and reflect. As a future materials engineer advocating and practicing circular economy, I want to build systems that are flexible, regenerative, and deeply human, where innovation serves both people and the planet. The most valuable skill I can carry forward is not just technical knowledge, but the ability to keep learning, keep questioning, and stay conscious of the impact of what I create.