SHIFT: The Social Impact Unconference

Date and Time: Friday, 10 October 2025, 9 AM – 4:30 PM
Unleash Space – 20 Symonds St

SHIFT is a co-created, participant-led event where the content is shaped by you. The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) is bringing together students and staff from across the University to explore the biggest questions and boldest ideas in social innovation and entrepreneurship.

In a true unconference format, the day’s sessions are built around the themes you share during registration. Whether you're passionate about climate action, equity in education, ethical tech, indigenous entrepreneurship, or something else entirely - this is your space to learn, collaborate and ignite change.

Expect dynamic conversations, inspiring speakers, and the chance to build your ideas into action with a community that cares.

• Co-create the agenda: Shape the event by telling us what matters to you when you register.
• Learn from changemakers: Conversations will be guided by a wide range of social impact leaders.
• Connect across disciplines: Meet staff and students who share your drive to make a difference.
• Grow your network: Engage with experts, facilitators and mentors working across the social innovation ecosystem.
• Experience an unconference: Break away from traditional formats - no lectures, just energetic, participant-led learning.
• Make the SHIFT: Walk away with new ideas, collaborators and inspiration for your social impact journey.

• Problem solving for impact: Learn how to identify and address pressing social and environmental challenges.
• Building better ventures: Explore strategies for creating ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible initiatives.
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration: Discover how to partner effectively with people from different backgrounds and areas of expertise.
• Aotearoa case studies: Gain inspiration from real-world examples of social innovation across New Zealand.
• Innovation tools and frameworks: Use practical methods like ideation, systems thinking, and impact mapping to shape your ideas.

An unconference flips the script on traditional conferences. Instead of a top-down agenda, content is created by the participants. You’ll pitch topics, join spontaneous sessions, and contribute your experience. This format empowers authentic conversations, surprising insights, and real connection. Expect to participate, not just sit and listen.

Nicola Nation

Former CEO of Ākina Foundation and a recognised leader in Aotearoa’s social enterprise movement, Nicola brings decades of experience working at the intersection of innovation, social impact, and systems change.

Dr Marissa Kaloga

Marissa is a Hynds Lecturer of Entrepreneurship at the University of Auckland. Her research and teaching focus on the roles of social innovation and social entrepreneurship in the transition to a more just and sustainable world.

More speakers will be confirmed soon!

Apply by 5 October

Note: there will be a Qualtrics form sent out to hone themes following your initial expression of interest.

If you have questions about the programme, please contact cie_programmes@auckland.ac.nz
 

The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provides a world of opportunity to participants so that they can stand-out and create value through innovative careers and start-up creation.

CIE is New Zealand’s leading University entrepreneurship centre, winning 12 international awards since 2020.