Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
Transformational, Together: Reflections from Austin
Recently, team members of the International Partners team had the opportunity to join a dynamic gathering in Austin for the SVPI Conference — a convening grounded in the belief that transformational change happens when individuals and institutions come together with a shared purpose. The experience was a powerful reminder that no single organization solves today’s complex challenges alone — but together, across sectors and geographies, we can build stronger, more resilient communities.
At the conference, we were grateful to hear encouraging remarks from Anne Mosle, Vice President and Executive Director of Ascend at the Aspen Institute, who highlighted the continued need for a shared commitment to bold collaboration and inclusive leadership. Ascend’s work — focused on intergenerational prosperity and co-creating solutions that center both children and the adults in their lives — resonated deeply throughout the conference, and was a strong reminder on the importance of local change- starting at home- can lead to a global impact.
As part of the Aspen Institute’s International Partners network, we witness daily how global leaders are tackling the most urgent issues of our time. From democratic renewal to trust-building, our network exists to bridge divides and foster bold solutions. The conversations in Austin underscored how much this kind of global-local partnership matters. Whether in Nairobi or New Orleans, Bogotá or Boston in our shared networks, we are united by a desire to increase collaboration.
In Austin, the themes were clear: transformational change is rooted in relationships, collaboration drives impact, and the power of community — when nurtured and activated — can shift systems. As we look ahead, our team is energized by what’s possible when networks like SVPI, Ascend, and the International Partners not only connect, but co-create. That’s how we build a better world — together.
