In this powerful episode of EmpowerED with Jessica Flynn, we’re joined by Nicole Norris, Director of Social Innovation at Georgian College, to explore how post-secondary institutions can serve as catalysts for community transformation.

Nicole shares the bold future story of Georgian’s Social Innovation Department—where students, faculty, and community partners come together to co-design the systems transitions our world urgently needs. From inclusive futures to regenerative thinking, this episode dives deep into how design-led research, education, and radical collaboration are driving impact across sectors.

We discuss:

– The origin and purpose of Georgian’s Community Impact Labs

– How the college is building a culture of changemaking across all campuses

– The role of post-secondary institutions in addressing social and economic challenges

– Community success stories and what’s possible through partnership

– How local leaders, educators, and residents can get involved – What the future of “belonging” looks like—and how we can build it together

Whether you’re a student, educator, innovator, or community builder, this episode will leave you inspired by what can happen when systems change starts with relationships, curiosity, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible.

Learn more about Georgian’s social innovation work at: https://futureofbelonging.ca Interested in collaborating or hosting a lab experience in your community? Connect with Nicole and her team to explore what's possible.