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About

Saadi Halil, Principal of Sequoia

     Sequoia was born from a calling — the realization that biomimicry is not merely a design strategy, but a worldview capable of reshaping

how we innovate, educate, and build.

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     A graduate of the Elliott School of International Affairs at The George Washington University, Sequoia’s founder Saadi Halil began his

exploration of regenerative systems through a year-long thesis on the pioneering urban planning of Curitiba, Brazil. His research examined

how cities in industrializing countries can still grow and industrialize while remaining ecologically integrated — a theme that would emerge later

in defining his career.

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     Though biomimicry is often seen as applicable and related to specific fields such as engineering and biotechnology, Saadi recognized a critical gap:

widespread understanding. After completing the Learn Biomimicry Educators program and immersing himself in the discipline, he identified his

unique contribution — serving as a bridge between complex scientific principles and broad cultural adoption.

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     An entrepreneur who founded and scaled San Francisco’s Hometown Creamery into a multi-location enterprise, he pairs creative ideation with

operational execution. His biomimetic urban design concept for Market Street in San Francisco, was awarded the Norman Foster Award for

Innovation by Lord Norman Foster himself — validating both visionary thinking and practical application.

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     Sequoia now focuses on keynote speaking, AI-driven ideation labs, youth programs, founder advisory, corporate training, and strategic consulting

for cities. Its approach goes beyond sustainability toward regeneration — embedding nature’s principles into strategy, innovation, and education.

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     Fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese, and experienced across industries and cultures, Sequoia,  is uniquely positioned to make biomimicry

accessible, actionable, and globally relevant.

Stay Curious

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