Summit Programming
Delegates enjoying our “Chicago Day” programming
Amal Kassir performing her poetry as our 2018 Keynote Speaker.
The Global Engagement Summit offers a wide variety of capacity-building programs ranging from keynote speakers to hands-on workshops to individualized mentoring sessions.
Because projects brought to the Summit can be anywhere in the development process and tackle a host of different types of social challenges, Summit programming is customizable to each delegate. GES staff members works hard to incorporate a variety of workshops and speakers that appeal to the unique projects of our delegate class. Upon arrival at the summit, delegates will be paired with small groups and mentors specifically suited to help them with their projects.
2025 sample Summit schedule
Delegates
There is no Summit without our delegates. Each year, our executive team works hard to bring together a group of socially-innovative, globally-minded individuals who seek to enact real change.
Keynote Speakers
The Summit invites prominent social entrepreneurs to relay their experiences in social change. Our Opening, Keynote, and Closing speakers provide inspiration, and seasoned advice backed by years of trial, error and success.
Facilitators & Workshops
These hands-on sessions, facilitated by industry experts, allow delegates to learn and practice specific skills relating to aspects of their project development.
Mentorship Sessions
Delegates work one-on-one with experts in their field who provide constructive feedback and recommendations specific to each project.
Pitch Competition
Our annual pitch competition gives select delegates an opportunity to pitch their projects to a panel of esteemed judges. All participates compete in front of the GES community to receive a grant to further their social entrepreneurial endeavors.
Small Group Sessions
Led by a trained GES staff member, delegates workshop their projects with a focus group of seven to eight peers, receiving personalized feedback.
Community Building, Networking & Social Activities
At GES, we want to provide everyone a community of like-minded people. With professional networking opportunities throughout the day and social events in the evening, time is given to collaborate and connect. Delegates will leave with a network of like-minded socially-conscious professionals, eager to support each other’s projects as they continue into the future.
Should you have any questions about summit programming, please reach out to our Content team at content@thegesnu.org.