About Us

Our Story

ioi strategic design was founded by Jehane Akiki and was born out of her firsthand experience in the international affairs and development space. After years of witnessing the disconnect between the immense effort and investment in these fields and the actual impact on the ground, Jehane felt there had to be a better way to create meaningful change.

During her Master's studies at The New School, Jehane discovered design thinking and strategic design and began applying these methodologies to address some of the world’s toughest challenges—those “wicked problems” like climate change, food insecurity, and the refugee crisis. Jehane realized these complex, interconnected issues needed solutions that were equally dynamic, creative, and thoughtful.

That’s why she founded ioi strategic design as an agency based in NYC. Jehane wanted to create a space where organizations could design strategies and projects that truly work—solutions rooted in the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve, informed by a deep understanding of the bigger picture. At ioi, we blend systems thinking with human-centered design to create localized interventions and build impactful, sustainable, and regenerative solutions. It’s about creating real change, together.

Our Philosophy

We believe in designing with people, not just for them. By embracing a regenerative mindset, we aim to create solutions that don't simply sustain systems but actively restore and improve them.

Our work is as much about building networks of trust and collaboration as it is about strategy and design. We align diverse expertise, shared vision, and collective action to create projects that are not only impactful but transformative.

Our Approach

Regenerative by Design:
We don’t just solve problems; we create opportunities for renewal and growth. By designing solutions that regenerate social, economic, and environmental systems, we aim to leave every context stronger and more resilient than before.

Grounded in Humanity:
Our work begins and ends with people. We immerse ourselves in the lived realities of communities, ensuring that the voices and needs of those most affected guide every step of our process.

Holistic and Systemic:
We connect the local and the global, the grassroots and the systemic. Our solutions are deeply localized while considering the broader context, creating strategies that align with the interconnected nature of our world.