Here’s a cool trick that creative thinkers use to generate great ideas: combine two existing things. That’s it. Sometimes, genius can be found at the nexus of two things that nobody had thought to bring together. For example, in 2000, the Japanese company Sharp combined a wireless phone and a camera for the first time.…
When it comes to changework, no matter how inspired you might be, you can’t just wing it. In the history of big ideas, none have changed the world before first being tested. And one of the most exciting things about Upswell is the potential to generate a big idea when such a diverse group of…
Challenges surrounding immigration are front and center in our country. The fourth episode of the Upswell Podcast explores how two changemakers – one near Detroit and one in Los Angeles – are working to advance social justice for immigrant communities in those two places. Our first conversation is with Hassan Jaber, executive director and CEO…
There’s a lot going on during Upswell. As evidence, before even thinking about Workshops or any number of things going on in the Public Square throughout the day, your first-day schedule may already look like this: 8:30am-1:30pm – LA Inside & Out Tour 2-2:20pm – Main Stage 2:30-3:20pm – Workshops 3:45-4:15pm – Main Stage 5-5:20pm…
Residents and tourists alike flood the sidewalks and streets of downtown Los Angeles any given day. With world-famous restaurants, museums, galleries, and other thriving businesses—the city’s center serves as a vital part of LA culture. The city of Los Angeles is complex—and so are its challenges. Nonprofits and foundations like The California Endowment, Downtown Women’s…
You’ll be called upon to do a lot of things at Upswell. Forge new partnerships. Address big challenges. Exchange lessons learned. Examine best practices. Color on the walls. Wait, what? You heard right. You’ve gotta do something different to find innovative ways to address society’s toughest challenges. Something out of the ordinary. Something unconventional, maybe…
In order for the democratic process to work for all of us, it is vital that every voice and every concern is heard. On the third episode of the Upswell Podcast – themed broadly around public policy and advocacy – we talk with two changemakers who work to encourage that every member of their communities…
While acting immediately comes to mind when one thinks of Los Angeles, few theaters in and around LA feature an all-Latino stage. CASA 0101 is one of a few venues that does. You’ll learn about this unique theater, enjoy delicious Mexican fare, and see a theatrical production – all during the Community Dinner at CASA…
Do you feel excited when you hear the term “innovation,” or does it evoke feelings of uncertainty? For many it can simply remind you that your daily work leaves little time to consider new ways to increase your impact. If you feel the same way, you’re not alone. Many social impact professionals have full plates…
If Upswell were a boat, it’s a wonder it hasn’t capsized under the weight of the rich programming and speakers we’re adding every week! As the Upswell lineup continues to expand, we’ve added another 21 awesome folks to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways to advancing your own mission,…