Julia Pichler is the Director of the Education Lab, where she leads the strategic development of a network that empowers educators and strengthens education systems to spread and scale impactful innovation. Her passion for equitable and future-ready learning began in the classroom, where she taught through Teach for Austria and witnessed how education can transform lives. As a CODA – a hearing child of Deaf adults – Julia has long navigated between worlds, translating not only language but systems, roles, and perspectives. She brings this lens of inclusion and empathy to her work in education policy, education leadership, and school development. Julia holds a master’s in Education Policy and Analysis from Harvard University and is an active lecturer, trainer, and advisory board member committed to advancing equity and innovation in education.

www.edlab.at

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Between Worlds: What My Childhood Taught Me About Systems

Between Worlds: What My Childhood Taught Me About Systems is a talk for anyone who’s ever felt unseen — or who wants to better see others. At seven, Julia Pichler was already interpreting for her Deaf parents, learning how systems include or exclude without meaning to. Growing up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) taught her that most systems don’t fail dramatically; they fail quietly, when people don’t listen or give enough space. But she also witnessed the creativity and resilience of those who adapt and bridge every day. This talk is an invitation to notice them — the neighbors, parents, and friends who translate between worlds — and to rethink empathy as a design principle. Julia shares stories that move from laughter to tears to hope, reminding us that care isn’t weakness. It’s the force that connects us and holds together what official systems let slip.