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Creative Blueprint brings GCUC to Canada

Posted on March 1, 2015

 

When I first launched Creative Blueprint in 2006, my mission was simply to inspire and empower. We began by listening carefully to the needs of local artists and entrepreneurs, and in response we created our first collaborative workspace. As the community became more established, we grew along with them, launching additional locations along with a contemporary art gallery and event space. Partnering with Foundery in 2011 allowed us to expand our vision and to provide coworking space, professional services and support for a wider range of independent workers in Toronto and now Seattle. Our network may have grown many times over the years, but the mission remains the same. We are always looking for opportunities to inspire and empower.

I discovered the Coworking Google Group and Coworking Wiki accidentally one day, and through these channels I realized that there was a larger network out there, that there were others who shared my mission and vision for the future of work. I began meeting some of these people online, and a few even showed up at The Foundery Buildings in Toronto – what a lovely surprise that was! I began to connect with other coworking communities in Toronto and around the world before discovering that there was an annual coworking conference in Europe and another in the USA. I knew immediately that I needed to attend.

Although I expected to find some kindred spirits and to learn a few things when I walked into my first coworking conference, I had no idea my entire life was about to change.

I listened to many unique and inspiring speakers, I watched captivating presentations, and most importantly I met my peers. I found my tribe.

After a full day absorbing information and ideas I felt like I was bursting with excitement. My vision had expanded; my knowledge had doubled, and I could barely contain myself. I was so grateful for the Unconference on Day Two so that I could speak with the other delegates and share my enthusiasm. My first Unconference was also memorable. I had no idea the audience was so full of talent and experience! I learned even more that day, directly from my peers. I left with one hundred actionable tasks and tips that I could bring home to my coworking community and implement immediately. I also left with three hundred new friends. I’ve attended every Coworking Europe Conference and every GCUC Conference since – I wouldn’t miss them for the world. The knowledge we all share is priceless, and the friends I’ve made are still by my side.

These annual gatherings have become a highlight of the year, and as coworking grows around the world we have also seen exciting growth in the industry here in Canada. Many Canadians would love to participate in global conferences but are unable to travel to attend the European or American editions, and we’ve heard many requests for a local production over the years. We are still listening. And we are excited to announce that we are bringing GCUC to Canada this fall.

Creative Blueprint will partner with the Global Coworking Unconference Conference to present GCUC Canada in Toronto, Ontario from September 16th – 18th, 2015. The first Canadian coworking conference will inspire and empower as we share our collective experience and collaborative achievements with an international audience.

Industry leaders and talented delegates from around the globe will join forces to share best practices and shape the new work landscape. Speakers, panelists and performers will explore the complex nature of the independent workforce, self-employment, shared workspace, community building, the sharing economy and our rapidly expanding industry. We also have a few surprises in store! You must experience it for yourself.

If you are interested in coworking, community and collaborating – trust me, you don’t want to miss this event. It just might change your life.

I can’t wait to meet you there!

Ashley

Creative Blueprint

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