What a better way to start a new year (2024) and a new season 12 with the topic of YOUTH and IMPACT. This is what Episode 1 is all about. Craig Zelizer sat down with Eric Dawson, CEO of RIVET, and engaged in a fascinating conversation about how to empower a new generation through innovative micro-financing as well as key recommendations for those focused on careers connected to youth and change.
Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways of the episode:
First, the power of youth leadership was front and center, with Eric Dawson emphasizing the the urgent need to have youth be at the center of change and shift to positive framing of this opportunity and their power.
Second, Eric emphasized the importance of diverse, authentic storytelling, not just spotlighting superstar activists, but also giving voice to the multitude of young change-makers out there.
Third, the episode underscored the impact of Peace First's evolution from a school-based curriculum to a global platform, showcasing the incredible potential of young changemakers on a global scale. As well as the need to have youth be leading their own change, and how Peace First built this in practice.
Fourth, and a very important point of this episode is the importance of leveraging positive stories about young people in pop culture and media. It's time to amplify young voices and democratize the platforms for their incredible stories!
Fifth, the discussion on youth engagement and the importance of compensating young people for their contributions. Young leaders deserve recognition and support for their valuable insights.Not to mention, the emphasis on the transformative impact of acknowledging and owning one's story. Authenticity and empowerment go hand in hand!
Eric also shared the moral imagination and the role of young people in driving social change and how Rivet's micro-financing platform is answering the question of how to radically grow and scale innovation youth impact and leadership and support.
Finally he offers many practical insights for building careers of impact, how to change systems, to remain nimble as an organization, tips for upskilling and much more.
Don't miss out on these crucial insights for driving social change and empowering young leaders. Tune in to the full episode and join the conversation!
Bio: Eric Dawson serves as the CEO of RIVET, the world’s first consumer-facing social impact brand designed to harness GenZ's collective consumer power to fund young social innovators through a micro-financing platform. By 2035, RIVET aims to invest in over a million new youth-led social innovations, particularly supporting those in "capital deserts."
Eric's educational journey is as diverse as his career, holding three degrees from Harvard University: a specialized B.A. in economics, sociology, philosophy, anthropology, and political science; an M.Ed in human development psychology; and an M.Div. in pastoral care and counseling. He completed his doctorate in Leadership and Innovation at New York University, with research focusing on founder transitions and the relationship between founders and their successors.
In addition to his academic achievements, Eric has held a variety of roles, from bartending and electron microscopy to driving for the author of Curious George. He began his professional journey directing a summer camp in Boston’s public housing complexes. Eric is an Ashoka, Echoing Green, Aspen, and Pop!Tech Fellow and the author of the best-selling book, "Putting Peace First: Seven Commitments to Change the World," released by Penguin Random House.
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