Activating Power: Highlights from Catalyst’s 2024 Annual Conference 

On September 12, 2024, over 200 Catalyst members and partners came together at The Magnolia in El Cajon for our 2024 annual conference, Activating Power: Moving from Theory to Action. Deep reflection, authentic connections, and a shared commitment to turning ideas into actions filled the day.

Whether you were with us and want to relive the fun or want to catch up on what you missed, keep reading to explore some of the most memorable moments. View all the photos from the day and see if you can spot yourself in the gallery here and watch our recap video to experience the highlights here. 

Grounding with Intention 

The day opened with a performance by Omo Aché Afro-Cuban Music & Dance Co, inviting participants to ground themselves in the rhythm and energy of Afro-Cuban traditions. Dr. Paul Cuero later joined the stage to honor the land and its history with a powerful traditional bird song, reminding us of the deep connection between place, people, and culture. 

Morning Plenary: Activating Community Power 

During our morning plenary, we explored the complexities of forging genuine connections with communities that are new to us. From understanding power dynamics to building trust, the conversation emphasized the importance of approaching relationships with humility, openness, a readiness to listen and learn, and showing up in community. Attendees walked away with practical strategies for engaging with new partners and a deeper understanding of how to align actions with community values. 

Performances that Inspired 

This year’s conference was hosted at a theater, and we embraced the power of the arts to deepen our learning experience. In addition to our insightful sessions, performances and interactive activities moved us and challenged us to think, feel, and engage in new ways.

Craftivist Katie Ruiz led the group in Activating the Power of Creativity: Craftivism in Action, where participants connected art and activism by making pompoms, serving as a hands-on reminder of the power of creative expression.  

Spoken word artist Kelsey Daniels led us in an embodiment activity that challenged us to dream of the future we truly want to create, illuminating our inner strength, while also acknowledging our current realities.

Dr. Novien Yarber’s session, Activating Individual Power: Beginning from Within, challenged us to consider what barriers are preventing us from moving forward in action and to identify them, reflect on them, and pass through them. Finally, transcenDANCE closed the day with a dynamic performance that left us energized and inspired. 

Honoring Nancy Jamison’s Legacy 

A heartfelt moment came before lunch when we celebrated the Nancy Jamison Fund for Social Justice (NJFSJ) awardees. The fund, named after Catalyst’s long-time CEO Nancy Jamison, continues Nancy’s legacy by supporting leaders actively working towards racial equity and social justice in San Diego County. Dr. Thao Ha and Jamie Arangure, two outstanding leaders in our community, joined us on stage to accept their awards. Learn more about Dr. Ha and Arangure and the other finalists here. The moment also marked the launch of the 2025 nomination cycle. Visit the NJFSJ page here to learn more and submit your nomination today!

Deep Dives into Activating Power 

Participants chose from three dynamic afternoon breakout sessions that explored innovative approaches to activating power: 

• Activating Resource Power: Creating Strategic Partnerships for Community Impact encouraged funders and participants to think beyond traditional investment frameworks and embrace new methods of collaboration. 

• Activating Organizational Power: Strengthening Nonprofits for Transformative Change challenged participants to reimagine capacity-building approaches with an equity lens. 

• Activating Your Superpowers: Unleashing Collective Possibilities for Social Change focused on how individuals can tap into their unique strengths to create micro- and macro-level impacts within their organizations and communities. 

Moments of Connection & Collaboration 

Throughout the day, there were many moments for connectivity, and the energy was palpable as members and partners networked and collaborated, finding common ground and discovering new avenues for partnership. These moments of connection were an important reminder of the power of community! 

Now, It’s Time to Take Action! 

As we conclude this year’s conference, we are reminded that the power to create change starts within each of us. Reflecting on the day’s insights and connections, whether you were with us or not, we encourage you to consider one small step you can take in your journey toward activating power in your work and communities. You can reach out to someone new, attend a community event, or simply deepen your commitment to learning and unlearning. Every action, big or small, contributes to our collective impact. 

Thank you to everyone who made this day unforgettable. Don’t forget to check out the full gallery to access all the pictures and watch our recap video to experience the highlights. Stay tuned for more insights from the conference in our upcoming recap video. Let’s continue the journey of activating our power, together!