Published: Oct. 6, 2023

Trees with fall colored leaves and a building behind it

The Ignite Social Justice & Leadership Conference is an annual one-day conference-style social justice program designed for students to learn, have dialogue, network and engage in a brave space together.  

This year’s theme is Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow, Create the Future! The conference will be held in person on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. in Kittredge Central.  

The event is a time to meet new people and have fun with other students on campus while also building professional and personal skills. Register here to attend

Professional and personal growth 

Engaging with others on social justice topics can stretch your comfort zone. You can learn from others who share different perspectives and experiences. The conference topics and sessions will help you build skills to enhance your resume and expand your leadership and social justice toolbox. 

Learn to be a changemaker for your community 

During the event, you will connect with others and learn ways to advocate for yourself and the communities you care about. You’ll explore topics that teach you how to be civically conscious as you interact with people and communities from different backgrounds and perspectives. 

Build leadership skills 

The event cultivates a space for crucial conversations around topics that allow a free and open exchange of ideas. Learning to listen to others, think critically and thoughtfully express your ideas can build a strong communication foundation essential to being a good leader. You can also gain insight into how you can apply skills that will foster social change and build communities of coalition.  

Networking 

A strong network can lead to opportunities to get more involved, find leadership roles and help with your job or internship search. By attending this event, you can connect with students from CU Boulder and CU Denver who are passionate and willing to learn about pertinent societal issues. You can also enhance your communication skills, hear about potential careers and learn how to navigate conference connections. 

Practice conference etiquette 

Attending this event will give you practical experience navigating conferences, which you can apply now and after college. You can gain comfort with all aspects of attending a conference, including registration, check-in, session selection, networking and attending keynote addresses. You can practice learning with curiosity, engaging with mutual respect and communicating with empathy.