Dr. George F. Simons

Dr. George F. Simons stands as a pioneering force in the field of intercultural understanding and human connection. With over five decades of dedication to bridging divides and nurturing empathy, Dr. Simons is best known as the creator and editor-in-chief of diversophy®, a unique and expansive series of over 100 intercultural learning games. Translated into more than 15 languages, these gamified tools are designed not only to educate but to create safe spaces where participants can openly share personal experiences. By fostering meaningful dialogue around both commonalities and differences, these learning platforms play a vital role in combating divisiveness and cultivating mutual respect in diverse communities worldwide.

At 88, Dr. Simons continues to pursue his lifelong mission with unwavering commitment. Collaborating with a global team spanning five continents, he is now focused on establishing a nonprofit organization aimed at sustaining and expanding the diversophy platform and other initiatives that support peace, ecological well-being, and the humanization of societal systems. His work is grounded in modern neuroscientific and cognitive science research, reinforcing the relevance and impact of his methodologies. A key dimension of his current efforts includes advocating for the decolonization of the intercultural field across academic and organizational domains.

Originally from the United States, Dr. Simons has lived in Germany, the Netherlands, and for the past 30 years, in France. His global journey has taken him to 55 countries where he has specialized in intercultural communication and negotiation. Over the years, he has mentored more than 70 interns from 24 different nations and has contributed significantly to professional literature through numerous books and articles. His most recent publication, diversophy®: Connecting Our Stories for a More Human Future, reflects his enduring belief in the power of shared narratives to foster global unity and transformative change.