Bert DeBusschere is a facilitator and trainer committed to ending institutional oppression and its dehumanizing impacts. As a White male working as a computational scientist (in a White male-dominated field), something always seemed to be missing: a key ingredient for a fulfilling life. In his early 40s, he discovered this missing element was authentic human connection. Ever since, Bert has been working to discharge the impacts of institutional oppression and reclaim his ability to connect with himself and others and to break through feelings of isolation.

LJIST’s theory of healing, including their unique understanding of the impacts of oppression on both target and non-target group members, propelled Bert’s journey to become a LJIST Associate. As a LJIST Associate, Bert supports participants to become more effective change agents, while deepening his own learning, healing, and connection in the process. Bert has built a strong facilitation practice in Technology of Participation® methods with the Institute of Cultural Affairs and has applied these skills both in his work as a LJIST Associate and as computational scientist.

Born and raised in Flanders, Belgium, Bert was trained as a mechanical engineer and works at a U.S. National Laboratory. He is passionate about working for equitable change in the STEM field. Bert has taken a variety of leadership roles in his workplace and networking groups to increase social justice and interrupt institutional oppression. 

Bert currently lives in California with his wife and their dogs. They founded and operated a non-profit canine rescue organization that fosters animals in need, helps them find new homes, and offers assistance to families looking to rehome their pets.