Igniting Change: The Celebration of Purpose and Collaboration
A Literary Launch and Its Visionary Author
At an exclusive gathering held at the sophisticated Bibliotheque in SoHo, Gina Sanders, with her newly released book, 'The Spark: Portraits of Purpose,' elegantly tucked under her arm, warmly welcomed guests. The event honored her latest literary creation, which she proudly presented as more than just a decorative piece for a coffee table.
The Genesis of a Movement: Gina's Collective and 'The Spark'
Seven years after establishing Gina's Collective, her advisory firm dedicated to fostering purpose-driven initiatives, Sanders felt the time was ripe to compile and share the remarkable accounts of the non-profit organizations she closely collaborates with. The resulting book, with its striking orange exterior and internal aesthetics inspired by the artistry of Lucio Fontana from the 1940s, stands as a visually appealing object. Yet, its true value lies within its pages, which are filled with profound affirmations and personal mission statements from the founders of Gina's Collective's partner organizations. The book transitions into a section of uplifting 'Gina-isms,' offering words of encouragement from Sanders herself, and even includes an interactive workbook to help readers discover their own motivations.
Tributes and Testimonials: A Night of Recognition
During an intimate reception at the library-like wine bar on Mercer Street, Sanders, a distinguished figure with 29 years of experience at Condé Nast, received high praise from Anna Wintour. Wintour playfully suggested that Sanders must have penned the draft during a brief interlude between launching technology ventures, participating in equestrian events, and engaging in her daily meditation. She lauded Sanders as a leading multi-tasker and a creative force, acknowledging the immense benefits derived from her talents and her role as an exceptional collaborator.
Fireside Insights: Leaders Share Their Missions
A visibly touched Sanders expressed her gratitude to the evening's co-hosts—Samantha Barry, Jamila Robinson, Versha Sharma, and Fran Tirado—and her book collaborator, Jezz Chung. Following this, she invited four prominent members of her Collective to join her for a candid discussion. Sanders passionately articulated her motivation for creating the book, emphasizing her conviction that the most significant offering one can give or receive is the spark of inspiration.
Transformative Impact: Stories of Hope and Progress
Brett Hagler, CEO and co-founder of New Story, shared how his non-profit is transforming the lives of thousands of vulnerable families by redefining access to housing and land ownership. Rose Afriyie, a Bronx native and co-founder of mRelief, detailed how her national organization is revolutionizing access to social services through streamlined protocols and leveraging artificial intelligence to assist millions in enrolling for SNAP benefits. Laura Hackley, CEO and co-founder of AnnieCannons, provided insights into their mission to train and support survivors of human trafficking in establishing sustainable tech careers. Manu Chopra, CEO and co-founder of AI innovator Karya, spoke about his focus on the current technological revolution and ensuring its positive application. Karya, meaning “dignified work” in Sanskrit, uses emerging technologies to enhance learning and earning opportunities in rural India and beyond, notably paying its 30,000 workers twenty times the local minimum wage.
The Contagious Nature of Social Impact
"Social impact is infectious," Afriyie remarked to Sanders when asked about her ongoing motivation. Hackley concurred, observing that during discussions about challenging realities, many in the audience leaned in rather than withdrawing, which she found to be a source of great optimism. As attendees departed with their copies of 'The Spark,' they also carried with them a renewed sense of inspiration.