ElevenThirtySix

With his new show, Yusuf?Ahmed is challenging traditional expectations of who belongs in the narrative of American history. Between Nostalgia and Dreams showcases Ahmed’s breathtaking photographs that explore the identities of young Black, brown and queer adults through the use of objects of their choosing that represent their personal history and resilience. It’s a direct act of defiance against efforts by?Donald Trump’s administration to erase marginalized communities from history through the banning of DEI and Black history in the federal workplace. “We’re looking at an administration that’s trying to distort history, suppress the archives, and remove any display or representation of our identities,” Ahmed says. “I think it’s important, especially here in the US, to continue pushing [the] message forward that we exist, that our lives are expansive, and that we hold so many different identities.” https://lnkd.in/eW-NPHsT

Between Nostalgia & Dreams, the latest exhibition by Ethiopian American photographer?Yusuf Ahmed?is ongoing at The Africa Center at Aliko Dangote Hall in New York City. This deeply personal and evocative collection explores the objects that immigrants hold onto as artifacts that tether them to their histories, identities, and the places they've left behind. https://lnkd.in/etEEfckC

Gen Z’ers are redefining what they want to do in life. 56% are considering social media roles and 33% are pursuing gaming careers, according to research by the Southeastern Rail. Unlike older generations, Gen Zers are prioritizing passion-driven work, with 73% valuing work-life balance, and 55% considering employers’ environmental impact. This signals a broader shift in values, and future work culture. So what can you do to keep them interested in you and your work? ?? Integrate social media and interactive digital storytelling in your marketing and communications to attract and retain Gen Z’s attention. ?? Offer social media and digital entrepreneurial-inspired workshops to present Gen Z with a chance to engage and build knowledge. ?? Champion values like creativity, sustainability, and health and wellness in your programming and external communications and let your community know you share their priorities. Want more insights and trends on how our world is changing? Sign up for the E36 Exchange (E36exchange.com) or join our newsletter https://buff.ly/40WFIvM

A new study by @ddiworld , a global leadership company, notes that 71% of leaders are now reporting overwhelming pressure and 40% of stressed-out leaders have considered leaving their roles. This new trend is being called "conscious unbossing," similar to last year's trend of #quietquitting - but this time, it's the leaders who are checking out. From DDI: “As organizations grapple with economic volatility, AI skepticism, and generational differences being amplified in the workplace, leadership is becoming a harder job — and a path that many talented people are opting out of. The encouraging news is that most leaders find self-reflection, open discussion, and continuous learning to be transformative practices in channeling stress into growth and innovation.” So as a leader, what can you do to take care of yourself and your team? ?? Host raw, unfiltered conversation circles where leaders can vent, strategize, and strengthen their resilience. ?? Offer staff-centered workshops on stress management and work-life balance—cut down turnover by putting people first. ?? Curate public-facing events that bring communities together to reflect on work, wellness, and the future of leadership. ?? Redesign leadership roles with baked-in flexibility to nurture a decentralized, forward-thinking culture. Learn more and read the report on the state of global leadership https://buff.ly/4arS3fK

In our latest Perspective and episode of The E36 Podcast, Ayofemi Kirby dives into the concept that creativity, rather than change, is life’s true constant. She shares how they’ve navigated an overwhelming influx of information by returning to a personal commitment to creativity. Consider how you can harness creative thinking to reshape the future, even in times of upheaval. Discover why destruction often precedes innovation, and how trusting in your own creative power can keep you grounded when everything else feels uncertain. https://lnkd.in/eW5b7eDU

In our latest Perspective and episode of The E36 Podcast, Ayofemi Kirby dives into the concept that creativity, rather than change, is life’s true constant. She shares how they’ve navigated an overwhelming influx of information by returning to a personal commitment to creativity. Consider how you can harness creative thinking to reshape the future, even in times of upheaval. Discover why destruction often precedes innovation, and how trusting in your own creative power can keep you grounded when everything else feels uncertain. https://lnkd.in/eW5b7eDU

Donald Trump’s proposals to inhibit federal funding and possibly prosecute institutions that implement DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) policies are—as one might expect—both brash and alarmingly direct. The President has never been known for subtlety, and this move is very much in line with his characteristic “shock and awe” approach. Yet, in the midst of the uproar, there might be a strange silver lining. First, let’s be clear: halting resources for DEI initiatives and threatening legal repercussions could have real, negative impacts on those most vulnerable to systemic inequities. In fact, as of the first week of his administration they already have as many people have had their jobs halted or are expected to end at the end of January. A rigid clampdown on these efforts risks dismantling or eroding the progress organizations have painstakingly built over the years. Much of the well-intended structure around inclusivity could be diminished, leaving marginalized voices even more unheard in certain workplaces. And from a societal standpoint, punishing people for trying to address inequities we know continue to exist is extreme at best, authoritarian at worst. However, it is also true that in many corners of the professional world, “DEI” has devolved into jargon. You see it sprinkled across mission statements and plastered on websites, promising everyone that this particular company or institution is “dedicated to diversity.” Yet, on the ground, the culture may not reflect those lofty words. Far too often, organizations reduce DEI to a series of boxes to be checked: a diversity training here, a committee there, and perhaps some symbolic hires to fill demographic quotas. As the founder of a Black-owned, women-owned firm, I too may have benefited from this approach, although I firmly believe in our expertise and unique perspectives that benefits our work and produces real results. After these superficial steps, many claim victory—“We’re diverse now!”—without ever examining the deeper changes required to truly honor people’s experiences, perspectives, and abilities. This is why it has been so easy for some companies to strip it from their websites or publicly announce they are ending DEI programs to focus on strategies that encourage business growth and advancement, as though the previous urgent programs had no real or actual positive impact, which we know is not true. And for others to firmly double down on their DEI initiatives because they have been proven to have real impact on business results. It’s also why we’ve seen so many confusing positions taken by leaders of our civic and cultural institutions in understanding and trying to balance competing and counter perspectives that bubble up in our society. Read more from Ayofemi Kirby below. ?? https://lnkd.in/ebaJAxhb

Consumer trends aren’t just for big brands—they’re vital for #cultural #institutions, #nonprofits, and #creative businesses striving to stay relevant and #impactful. ?? By understanding how #consumer and #citizen behaviors are evolving, you can uncover new ways to deepen #engagement, spark meaningful connections, and amplify your #mission. Last week we released our E36 Trendwatch 2025 report and hosted our first webinar (https://bit.ly/42jwPi8) where we explored the 2025 #trends we're paying attention to, unpacking insights like AI-driven personalization, the power of narrowcasting, the rise of cashless societies, and more. These trends are shaping the future of how people connect with #art, #culture, and #purpose-driven organizations. Missed the live session? No problem. Catch the replay on the E36 Exchange and download the full report to explore actionable strategies tailored for your work here: https://bit.ly/42jwPi8

Reflecting on a year of creativity, connection, and community. As we prepare for 2025, we’re excited to share more resources, insights, and new ways to engage through our upcoming E36 Exchange community—workshops, guides, and more on the way. Be sure to read our Chief Strategist Ayofemi Kirby's end-of-year letter (https://shorturl.at/bznPY), sharing her perspective on how our values guide us through uncertain times. Here’s to deeper collaboration and the power of authenticity moving us all forward. Wishing you a restful, inspiring holiday season!

This week’s headlines highlight the profound ways #culture, #politics, and #innovation intersect globally. From the impact of U.S. election results on the #arts sector to #India overtaking China as the top source of international students in the U.S., these stories reveal shifts in priorities, challenges, and opportunities for #creators, #cultural institutions, and the #creative #economy. Read more about why they matter here: https://buff.ly/3P5auwR 1. Finding Hope Through the Arts After the Election The U.S. election results will reshape tax policies, immigration, and AI regulations, directly impacting the arts. Cultural institutions have a role to play in fostering unity in a divided nation. ?? Why it matters: Adapting to policy shifts is key for creators and institutions to thrive in a polarized landscape. 2. Sotheby’s Layoffs and CEO Backlash Sotheby’s announced over 100 layoffs, while CEO Charles Stewart’s Instagram post faced criticism for being tone-deaf. The incident highlights tensions between leadership optics and staff well-being. ?? Why it matters: Economic pressures call for empathy and transparent leadership to maintain trust in the arts. 3. A Monument for Native American Boarding Schools A new national monument at Carlisle Federal Indian Boarding School acknowledges the abuse endured by Native children. This step preserves history and amplifies Indigenous voices. ?? Why it matters: Memorializing injustices fosters healing and creates space for underrepresented narratives. 4. Waning Public Trust in Civic Institutions Unexplained drone sightings are fueling skepticism and conspiracy theories, reflecting a broader decline in trust. Cultural institutions can step in to rebuild confidence through education and dialogue. ?? Why it matters: Creatives can use their platforms to promote transparency and critical thinking. 5. Women-Only Art Installation Returns at MONA Mona’s Ladies Lounge reopens after legal battles, offering a women-only space where men can now enter via ballot to learn about housework. ?? Why it matters: Art that challenges gender roles can spark conversations on inclusion and societal norms. 6. India Tops as U.S. International Students India has overtaken China as the top source of international students in the U.S., marking a 23% rise. Together, they make up over half of all international enrollments. ?? Why it matters: Institutions can tap into this growing demographic for cultural exchange and expanded programming.