The Great Awakening: Redefining Work, Values, and Purpose
Join Bay Area leaders for cutting-edge conversations about the future of work to ignite movements for economic opportunity and equity.
“This moment represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the trajectory of work in the United States to ensure that the average worker can benefit, not be left behind. We must create a new social compact for work and workers that commits all stakeholders, including workers, employers, government, and other institutions, to values of equity and inclusion and bold goals including ensuring quality jobs, eliminating working poverty, and equipping all workers with the skills and supports to fully participate in the economy now and into the future.” (Su, Henry, Manyika 2021)
The pandemic has created both a crisis and an opportunity for us to rethink everything and remake the systems that no longer serve us. How can we emerge from this time more resilient, adaptable, and mentally healthy—moving forward confidently with purpose and meaning? How might we create quality jobs, workplace cultures of belonging, and equitable workforce development systems that empower the most vulnerable members of our society with pathways to real prosperity?
The Center for Transformative Action at Mills College invites you to engage in this critical conversation at our 14th annual conference on Friday, April 22nd, 2022. As we strive to create a healthy workforce and equitable business models, this conference aims to highlight current issues, challenges, and opportunities exacerbated by the pandemic that are shifting perceptions about work, values, purpose, and justice. This flagship virtual event will convene a global ecosystem of students, community leaders, small business owners, policymakers, established and aspiring social entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders to share their experience on how organizations and individuals have reimagined themselves to survive during these tumultuous times.
Looking at the current rates of resignation and the increase in disconnected workers across the US, we now have data that supports the need for a shift in how work and achievement is defined on all levels: personal, institutional, and political. “Last year, more than 3.95 million workers quit their jobs each month… the highest average on record” (shrm). When we dig beneath the surface we see that quit rates are vastly different across industries, race and gender differences exist among those considering quitting, and reasons for leaving are varied (Kapor). Successful models must effectively break down those with barriers - centering people with disabilities, returning citizens, foster youth, veterans, and the millions of others disconnected from economic opportunity. Organizations will be challenged to consider the role of radical agility and resilience strategies related to employee wellness, DEI, and retention. Individuals will be challenged to consider their role in society and the intersection of their interests, strengths, and market opportunities that can fuel deeper life meaning.
As we enter 2022, we understand that change is inevitable and that it is vital to include voices across diverse communities, sectors, and backgrounds to steer this current cultural shift in the workforce and contemporary workplace. In addition to inspiration and learning, attendees will leave the conference with actionable next steps, understanding key trends in the world of work, and creating opportunities to expand equitable outcomes. You will have the chance throughout the entire day to expand and deepen your network, visit exhibit booths, unwind with pilates, or dance to empowering tunes from the incredible DJ Nina Sol - a Lokey Alumna and Financial Activist.
When we meet each other, exchange ideas, debate, and share stories, we have the power to vision and actualize new realities.
COnference Tracks Include:
Transforming Time and Space:
Partnerships in Workforce Development, Labor, and Collective Organizing
Intersections in Workforce Development: Barriers and Solutions
The Future of Equity in a Technology Fueled World
The Bay Area Cleantech Ecosystem and Hands on Workshops