The Aspen Institute’s Post

Join Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute this evening for "Weaving in 400 Seconds," where you'll meet three weavers—people who build social trust in their communities—from around the country who are connecting people in different ways. Each tells their story with 20 slides and 20 seconds on each, so 400 seconds total, with small group discussions afterwards. Learn more and register: https://lnkd.in/egHVBZPE

"A dollar goes a lot further when it's in a woman's hands," says comedian, writer, producer, and political commentator Trevor Noah, highlighting the critical need for equal income opportunities at the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth's 2023 Global Inclusive Growth Summit, in partnership with the Aspen Institute. In an insightful discussion with Melinda French Gates, philanthropist and co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and MSNBC's Maria Teresa Kumar, they explore the gender wealth gap and envision an economy where women's contributions are truly valued. Join them as they delve into how equitable pay drives innovation and strengthens our society: https://bit.ly/3WXjms7

In the inaugural episode of Aspen Ignites: Aspen Ideas Climate edition, Catherine Coleman Flowers, Founder of The Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice, and Chris Estes, Co-executive Director of the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group, join NPR’s Kirk Siegler to explore the potential for rural energy economic development. They emphasize community engagement, trust, and the need for policymakers to address the specific needs of rural communities for a just energy transition. The conversation also delves into challenges like accessing funding and technical assistance. Watch the full episode to discover how rural economic transformation can correct past wrongs and celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of rural communities: https://lnkd.in/dNzSS4D7

Explore a fascinating discussion on how women are reshaping the opera world, taking on key roles not only as performers but as composers and opera house leaders. Tune in to highlights from this insightful panel at Aspen Ideas featuring NPR's Jennifer White, soprano Renée Fleming, composer Missy Mazzoli, and Houston Grand Opera's General Director Khori Dastoor. Listen here: https://lnkd.in/dnqNcSVn

“We want to be a place that supports innovation in youth work,” said Kaya Henderson, former District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) chancellor, in conversation with the Washington Business Journal about the historic launch of the Center for Rising Generations at the Aspen Institute under her visionary leadership. Thanks to the unprecedented donation of $185.7 million from the Bezos Family Foundation, the Institute is taking a significant step forward in youth development. By optimizing existing youth-focused programs at the Institute and creating new partnerships, this initiative will deepen our focus on equipping young people with the tools they need to lead, engage, and drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Learn more about the exciting vision behind this initiative: https://lnkd.in/duzj4e7n

Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs and IKEA Foundation have just announced the six recipients of $700,000 in grants from the Waste & Circularity Investment Innovation Fund. These recipients are exceptional entrepreneur support organizations working for a greener future in Kenya and India, and are poised to boost the flow of finance sources for entrepreneurs focused in waste management and building a thriving circular economy. Learn more about these organizations working to build a more sustainable future for all at the link below.

"There is no magic in any work. Life is just rolling up your sleeves and getting it done." Governor of Colorado Jared Polis keeps it real on this week's edition of Leading Voices, a new series from the Aspen Institute where every Wednesday you'll hear directly from leaders about what it takes to lead and how they got to where they are. 💡 Gov. Polis shared some of his leadership lessons with us before speaking at this summer's Aspen Ideas Festival. More leaders will be joining us in the coming weeks - be sure to follow us so you don't miss a thing.

Vulnerability in leadership may seem counterintuitive, often mistaken for weakness in a world that celebrates perfection and infallibility. As a result, many leaders, fearing criticism and exposure, feel the need to maintain a facade of flawlessness. But the truth is, the key to unlocking true leadership credibility lies in vulnerability—it’s a powerful strength. It is the courage to show up as your authentic self, to admit your imperfections, and to ask for help when needed. In our latest blog, we explore how leaders like Gloria Walton, Marlon Peterson, Kaci Y. Patterson, MBA, Marilu Salvador, Miroslava Herrera, Kevin Hainline, and others from the Aspen Global Leadership Network, are redefining leadership by embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Discover how this approach leads to greater connection, collaboration, and innovation: https://lnkd.in/dHftTE9C