This is my first time to SXSW, and I have to admit, there’s a bit of anxiety and nerves mixed in with my excitement. I love Austin. I like to think I’m cool enough to hang. But…the large amount of activities and all the people descending on relatively small area… well I’m just not sure what to expect.
Nerves aside, I have a lot to be excited about as a SX newbie (notice I didn’t say n00b!).
First, there’s the Porter Novelli booth (#510), where I can’t wait to share our #SelflessSelfie campaign. Everyone who stops by and takes a selfie can enter to win $100 for their favorite charity. We’ll be selecting 10 lucky winners – and their charities! What I love most about this campaign is that it reflects who we are as a company – we drive purposeful action through engagement and influence. And we believe in doing well by doing good. Which brings me to my next item….
On Sunday night, I will be moderating a lively Southbites panel discussion from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Driskill Ballroom. The panel is titled “Standing for Equal Rights: In & Out of the Kitchen” and features Chef Aáron Sanchez, Chef Eli Kirshtein and Chef Sarah Simmons. Our discussion will cover civil and human rights issues in kitchens and restaurants nationwide – and how chefs are using their platforms to speak out against discrimination and affect change.
Pretty heady stuff! But it gets better…on Monday and Tuesday, I can’t wait to attend the SXgood Hub. The two-day SXgood Hub, presented by United Nations Foundation, brings together attendees who are advancing social innovation. I’m looking forward to meeting others who are inspired to cause good trouble … because when you create positive change the status quo just won’t do!
And just so you don’t think I’m here for all work and no play…the last thing on my mini-bucket list is going to the Mr. Robot Ferris wheel and fsociety Coney Island arcade experience. And if I’m lucky, I’ll also get to see Rami Malek and Christian Slater at the panel session on Sunday.
So there you have it. I’m getting my bags packed (comfy shoes, Porter Novelli t-shirts and a cool outfit for the Southbites panel…yes, I’m a little vain), and I’m ready to go.
Can’t wait to tell you how it goes!