#HowDoYouShape
Written by Sara Reynolds and
. She256 designer Maggie Valentine designed the elegant elements of this movement.She(256) is a movement dedicated to increasing diversity and breaking down barriers to entry in the blockchain space. We believe that blockchain technology will shape our future financial and governance structures, and as such it’s crucial that those building these systems are representative of the global, diverse population of which they are to serve. Moreover, because this space is still in its infancy, there is a unique opportunity to set this culture and tone.
I : The Methodology
Our thought process behind the movement, #HowDoYouShape began because we wanted to prompt others to think about how we help younger generations grow professionally. We urge current leaders, thinkers, teachers, mentors, and friends to think about the ways in which you affect your peers and our fellow aspirants. Do we establish a solid environment from which they can grow? Do we provide new opportunities to people who may be different from us? Do we build up young minds? And if so, how? And if not, how can we? Thus, we pose some simple questions for you to reflect on, answer, and ask yourself as you become mentors, guides, and leaders for the younger generation:
How Do You Shape
…future thinkers, writers, creators, coders?
…the people who look up to you?
…the next generation of leaders?
…your industry to be inclusive, accepting, and thoughtful?
II: Our Design
At She(256), design is a pillar of our organization. Great design links people and ideas. It stimulates curiosity and personal connection. All of which are necessary in creating a lasting movement. Once we understood the mission and goals we wanted to achieve from this campaign, we asked ourselves how design could tie everything together. We use design to compliment the questions we ask and the stories we want to be told. Our designer, Maggie Valentine explains her design thinking, “When we began to think about the mission behind our campaign, we strived to empower people to share how they empower others. We want participants to proudly — and boldly — share their steps in shaping and creating a lasting impact. Through jarring text and brutalist inspiration, our poster series both poses a set of questions while leaving room for open-ended answers. The shapes, which are colored by hues from she256’s vibrant color palette, flow freely. This boundlessness attempts to mimic our question of “how do you shape”: a question that is open to limitless interpretations and answers.”
III. #HowDoYouShape
The focus of this movement surrounds individuals stories and responses to the prompt at hand. We ask anyone to participate in sharing how they have done something to help a younger sister, a student, a friend, a mentee etc., or how they have stimulated change in their community. Each story shared inspires many. In spreading these stories, we can start a larger conversation about how we can best build up future leaders and create an inclusive environment for all.
Tell us your story about how you have been a mentor or inspiration to an aspiring leader. Tag @She_256 on Twitter and post your thoughts with #HowDoYouShape. We can’t wait to hear from you!
