Overview

Overview:

BLK SHP is a “loose guild” and movement of leading creative thinkers, writers, policy-makers, artists, entrepreneurs, investors, and social entrepreneurs. The mission of BLK SHP is to build and nurture ecosystems that help unlock the creativity and voices of socially conscious innovators, while providing a platform to create and disseminate cutting-edge thought leadership, art & culture, and socially influential ventures to a wider public.

BLK SHP is a very diverse and inclusive organization. Anyone can be a BLK SHP, so long as they are working and acting creatively, in concert with the mission. When asked to define BLK SHP values, we like to refer to the 5Cs (creativity expressed):

  • Curiosity: an openness to all diverse points of view, as well as a thirst for learning and growth.
  • Conviction: the ability to articulate and stand for a specific point of view about problems.
  • Courage: the willingness to be misunderstood, sometimes for long periods of time, despite conventional wisdom.
  • Collaboration: generous, humble, and eager to work with others, regardless of social position or status.
  • Contribution: get sh*t done, create social value, and measure outcomes.

In addition, we have one rule: “The 5% Rule”. Whether it’s an hour of a day or 5% of a workweek refocused and reworked, BLK SHP asks our affiliated collaborators to turn their focus outward and do something great, something worthwhile with a small portion of their lives. You’d be surprised what can happen with just 5% of your thoughts, energy, and efforts.

Spud’s Thoughts:

BLK SHP is a difficult group to fully grasp at first, which is perhaps the reason I like them. It feels at time like a secret identity, and underground network, a loose affiliation among people doing interesting work around the world. They run occasional roadtrips around the country to go and learn from innovators on the ground. I’ve had a friend join them on those trips in the past and spoke highly of the folks involved. If you enjoy the challenge, feel free to follow them and creatively find ways to get involved with their work.