Suppose that you spend your professional life studying innovation. You know the theories of creativity inside out. But when did you last feel what it takes to think like a creative genius? This question inspired Thinkergy’s proposal to ISPIM, the International Society for Professional Innovation Management, for its ISPIM Connects Bangkok conference, hosted at Kasetsart University from March 8 to 11, 2026. Instead of another session in a lecture hall, we offered delegates a Genius Journey Walkshop: a chance to experience Bangkok while learning the mindset of creative geniuses. It became one of the most popular parallel sessions, and registration had to be capped to keep the group together.

On Tuesday, March 10, around 30 academics and practitioners from Asia, Europe, North America, Africa, and the Middle East set off into the afternoon heat of 36°C. Brave is the right word. Simply showing up honored Genius Journey Stop #1: Stop your doubts, worries, and fears — start being a courageous, action-oriented, and persistent believer.

Our journey began with the Mask Walk at Siam Center. Delegates put on square, box-shaped masks and walked through one of Bangkok’s busiest shopping malls. Security guards followed us. Some shoppers looked confused; a few wagged their fingers and insisted, “You cannot do this!” Interestingly, the bystanders’ reactions mirrored Everett Rogers’ Innovation Adoption Theory. About 15–20% reacted positively, cheering and taking photos. About 30–33% watched with neutral curiosity, and another 30–33% didn’t notice at all, absorbed in their phones. The remaining 15–20% reacted negatively, annoyed by the disruption of normal order. That is exactly what happens when a disruptive innovation enters an established system. Inside the box, each delegate faced a more personal question: Do I judge this as ridiculous and worry what others think of me? Or do I stay curious and enjoy the fun? The exercise brought three Genius Journey stops to life at once: Stop #2 (Stop your ego — start being yourself), Stop #3 (Stop being judgmental and closed — start being curious and open), and Stop #4 (Stop being negative and serious — start being positive and playful). In other words, you can only think outside the box when you drop the mask you wear inside it.

From there, the city itself became our curriculum, with each destination embodying a Genius Journey mindset. At the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, delegates explored Stop #6: Stop being trapped in the expert tunnel — become a T-shaped leader who collects and connects fresh dots far beyond their own domain. At Wat Saket, the Golden Mount and historically one of Bangkok’s highest vantage points, the elevated, top-down view lifted the group above the mundane. Here, delegates reflected on Stop #5, Love what you do: Why are we here now? What motivates us intrinsically? What impact do we want to create? The final stretch led through Benchakitti Park, whose fluid, ever-changing nature mirrors the circular, constantly evolving essence of business. Walking among its wetlands brought Stop #8 (Move, change and flex yourself) and Stop #9 (Be mindfully present) to life, and set the incubation processes behind breakthrough creativity in motion.

Over four hours, the group crossed Bangkok by BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, canal boat, tuk-tuk, and on foot, turning the city into a mobile creativity laboratory. Many delegates later told us the Walkshop was the highlight of the conference. One senior innovation researcher commented: “So grateful to have been part of this inspiring Genius Journey at ISPIM Connects 2026. A truly memorable experience!” Another delegate, a Ph.D. student from Bangkok, shared with our lead Genius Journey guide, Dr. D: “Who knew rediscovering your own city could be that much fun? Your enthusiasm and innovative spirit turned it into a truly great experience.” Ultimately, creative leadership cannot be learned in classrooms alone. Sometimes it starts by walking through a city with curiosity, courage — and occasionally a box on your head.

Do your researchers, experts, or leaders know everything about innovation, except what it feels like to think like a genius? Contact us to find out how a Genius Journey may help your people drop their masks, collect fresh dots, and lead with creative courage, whether in your office, at your conference, or on the streets of your city.