What the heck is the Upswell schedule?, Pt. 1
// By Jacqueline Brennan
You’ve heard that Upswell is going to be a new kind of experience. But what does that even mean?! The short answer, of course, is that you’ll have to join us in LA this November 14-16 to really understand. But that’s not a satisfying response! Don’t worry, we’re not trying to be mysterious.
If there’s one key thing to know about your three days in Los Angeles, it’s that you’re going to have choices. Lots of them.
Are you interested in hands-on action, rapid prototyping, and high-energy networking? Maybe you want to dive deep into an issue, learn with experts, and quietly reflect on new insights. Or perhaps you want to test drive virtual reality storytelling, visit new communities to see social change at work, or even build connections with new colleagues while your feet are in the pool. Upswell is yours to customize.
Over the next few months, we’ll be making big announcements about the details (hence, this is just part 1). In the meantime, to open your imagination a bit, we’re excited to introduce some of Upswell’s core elements and give you a preview of how they fit together.
Public Square | The public square is at the very heart of civil society. It’s where we build community, test ideas, and make change. It’s where creativity, innovation, science, spirituality, and strategy collide in fantastic ways. And it’s where you’re going to experience some of the very coolest things Upswell has to offer.
LA Inside & Out | Taking place the morning before Upswell officially kicks off, this series of site visits will take you to inspiring spaces and innovative communities throughout the Los Angeles region to see how social change work is happening on the ground. You’ll be exposed to the forward-thinking and innovation that LA is known for, offering inspiration for continued connection and creativity at Upswell.
Workshops | From skills-building to prototyping and deep learning to group reflection, Upswell’s workshops offer a wide variety of ways to understand how changework happens – and how we can collaborate to make an even greater impact.
Community Dinners | There’s something special about sharing a meal with others, and the dinner table is where some of the most intimate and meaning conversations take place. This set of specially curated meals gives you the chance to go into the community to experience LA’s rich culture firsthand and make deeper connections with your fellow changemakers.
Main Stage | In the heart of the Public Square, the Main Stage offers high-impact, high-profile speakers who can expand your mind and fill your soul for the important tasks ahead.
Awards Dinner | You can’t be in LA and not have an awards show! This banquet will celebrate the work of transformative leaders, including the winners of the John W. Gardner Leadership Award and the American Express NGen Leadership Award.