Circles of Change

Building Bridges’ 9th Annual Circles of Change luncheon was held April 11th at the Seawell Grand Ballroom at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Hosted by Building Bridges participants, girls ages 15 to 17, the event attracted over 500 guests to honor individuals working to create a more just, inclusive world.  Muna Aghawani, social scientist and Building Bridges alum, spoke about how her Building Bridges experience informs her work building peaceful post-conflict communities in Iraq and Afghanistan. Inocente Izucar, star of the Academy Award winning short documentary “Inocente,” was presented with the Shift Award and captivated the audience with her story of overcoming homelessness and her undocumented status to realize her dream of becoming an artist and inspiring other youth like herself. Denver City Councilman Albus Brooks shared his commitment to building partnership within cities, and looking to youth for leadership.

Together, guests at the event raised over $35,000 to support Building Bridges, whose mission is equipping young people with the communication and leadership skills necessary to address the root cause of hatred, discrimination, and violent conflict. The menu included a custom couscous and roasted mushroom salad, topped with beets, goat cheese, candied walnuts, and crisped sweet potato. Guests also enjoyed a variety of gourmet brownies, strawberry lemonade, and a variety of teas and coffees. A list event sponsors is available on the Building Bridges website. Learn more about Building Bridges and the honorees at BuildingBridgesShift.org or calling 303-691-2393.