What does the future of open knowledge look like, and who gets to shape it? At the beginning of February 2026, I found myself stepping into that question for the first time at Futures Lab , a new international gathering that brought together Wikimedians, affiliate organizers, and contributors from across the open knowledge ecosystem. For me, it was more than just a conference; it was an entry point into a wider conversation about where our movement is heading. From the start, the energy in the room was unmistakable. The guiding theme, “Learn, Think, and Do,” was not just a slogan but a rhythm that carried through every session, conversation, and spontaneous exchange in the hallways. People weren’t just sharing ideas; they were testing them, questioning them, and imagining what comes next. Over several days, discussions moved fluidly between the practical and the philosophical. We explored governance models, community dynamics, and ways to strengthen collaboration across projects.…