I’m a social media evangelist. There, I said it. Thant wasn’t too hard, I think I will keep going with this label as it describes me to a T. I’ve just watch Clay Shirky, a NYU professor and noted author (on the social and economic effects of Internet technologies) talk about how social media has changed everything about the world. His artful and entertaining 15 minute TED talk has got me stirred.

The Internet used to be a one way vehicle, usually controlled by experts, now it’s many to many where people can by by pass censors and publish their view of the world. He uses the earth quake in China as an example, but given the historic political upheaval occurring in Iran, that country could also be used as a great example that exemplifies his points.

What I especially liked in this talk was his reference to social media as being the primary vehicle for convening and supporting groups (both on & off line). In York Region, there is a lot of interest and emerging plans for local networks and alliances such as the United Way of York Region, the York Region Alliance to End Homelessness, and the Linking Georgina group to convene groups around important community matters.

In York Region there is much convening work ahead as we address social disparities, our fragile support systems and the disconnections experienced by so many individuals and organizations. So I invite you to tap into a bit of social media evangelism take a few minutes out of your busy day and listen to Clay Shirky.

Brent Uncategorized convening, groups, networks, socialmedia