The gender binary has a long history of perpetuating harm, suppressing human potential through societal rules. Before a child is even born into the world, their tiny shoulders carry thousands of years of expectations and limitations. Boys are often encouraged to aim high but also to contain emotions which creates depression and isolation. Girls are still taught to love and raise a family, while their voices and ambitions are often curbed, putting others ahead of themselves and managing to keep the family unit together at all costs. Allowing these unhealthy stereotypes to dominate can have dire consequences on mind, body, and spirit, especially for those who do not feel free to fully express themselves due to deeply ingrained cultural expectations. In this keynote by futurist Rob Smith, founder and CEO of PHLUID, Smith shares how his own experience as a gay man informs his work, breaking free of gender norms and celebrating his indigenous ancestry, self-identifying as Two Spirit. For eight years, Smith has immersed himself into the LGBTQIA2S+ community, listening, learning, and creating positive change through fashion, education, community, activism, and giving back. This includes opening the world’s first gender-free store and fighting for legislation that reimagines a future where all are liberated to express self-love, live authentically, and celebrate the freedom we ALL deserve without apology.