Towards the end of a tumultuous 2020, I was invited to join the RSA - Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce. Not only was it a huge compliment, but I felt buoyed by the fact that this longstanding institute, whose members have included US founder Benjamin Franklin, wanted me to help them create a better world through social change.
After a gruelling eight months of having to restart my business after lockdown devastated my income and triggered a decline in my health, I was reassured that I'd chosen the right path.
At first I had to decline the request, as my limited business budget had been ploughed into pivoting. So when the RSA offered me a bursary, I gratefully snapped up the offer!
What is the RSA?
For 260 years the RSA has been committed to a future that works for everyone. A future where we can all participate in its creation.
Founded in 1754 with a meeting at Rawthmell's coffeehouse in London's Covent Garden, the RSA's other members have included Charles Dickens, Karl Marx and Adam Smith.
A hub for inventions, ideas and artworks at first, the RSA has since instigated the UK's first public exams, Britain's famous 'blue plaques' scheme and a national woodlands planting scheme back in the 1700s.
At the moment, the RSA is working on range of exciting projects. To name a few...
Research for the Universal Basic Income.
Supporting younger creative talent in creating a circular fashion.
Helping society make longstanding systemic changes.
Find out more here.
Global community
I'm excited about being part of a thriving, forward-thinking, global community of RSA fellows. In fact, I'm just one of 30,000!
When you're gunning for positive social impact and change, your work can be frustrating when mainstream behaviour seems to be lagging behind.
I plan to share my experiences more on my blog, so keep an eye out for news!
In the meantime, take a look at my small business PR coaching services that are empowering changemakers and purpose-driven brands.