Social Activism
In a Nutshell
For highschoolers, college students, and young professionals within our social circle, we have an opportunity to turn our social gatherings into mindfully curated relationship building events at our homes. These events can be arranged at anyone’s home with minimal effort:
It is best to keep the group between 15 to 40 young adults, alongside 2 to 4 more season professionals who act as mentors. The discussion should be curated by the host(s) who
Hosts should take 5 to 10 minutes at the start to explain the context and purpose of the gathering
Then all participants (and mentors) will introduce themselves, sharing (i) something fun not on their resumes (ii) how they can help others and (iii) what they need help with.
Limit each introduction to under 2 minutes and the full round of introductions to less than 1 hour.
This should be followed by socializing/networking over snacks and drinks - the food and drinks can be brought by attendees or provided by the host(s).
Hosts should ensure each young adult meets as many new people as possible: no socializing with people you already know, and no separation along gender line.
Success Stories
M and U (of CA): we held our first meet up earlier this year, inviting young professionals in our social circle between 20 and 29 years of age. On just two days of notice, nearly 40 people showed up! We kept it for 4pm to 6pm on a Saturday but people stayed part 7p. We also had four mentors across different industries. Several families played host to this meet up and provided food and drinks.
After a general meet and greet, the agenda driven networking started with a round of introductions. The host families introduced the K2 mission and playbook and the mentors gave brief introductions and how they can be of help. We then went around the room letting each of the young professionals take a minute or so to talk about themselves, what they can help with and what they most need help in.
Then everybody grabbed some food and drinks and got to know each other in a relaxed, social environment. The round of introductions, the short talks by the mentors, and the context setting by us hosts as to why we are having the gathering , really helped with the socializing. Nearly everyone exchange several contacts. From what we have heard, several continue to follow up with their new or renewed connections. In addition, we collected everyone’s contact and posted that to the entire group to facilitate future networking. Several folks also said that they would do their own “purposeful” networking parties within their own circle, or via their families social circles.
The Ask
Pick some key brands / companies that are founded and backed by Pakistani founders. Consumer - Zareens, Nani Khatai
Benefits
Accelerate development of young professionals in our community by connecting them with other professionals in their age group and with mentors and role models in their industry through these networking sessions.
Foster stronger, more positive identity and cultural affiliation among our next generation
Help create deep, personal bonds and friendships within our younger generation
Effort and Cost
Little cost above providing some light refreshments (which is optional if you go the “Bring your own snack” route)
Scaling the play
Share within your circle of friends and family members: get commitments from them to try out this play
