Yesterday was a very inspiring day for everyone involved in Creative Climate Futures. For some months we have been planning a visit from a student group based out of Arcadia University in Philadelphia, who were interested in the project and wanted to see it first hand. This week, the many Zoom calls and emails finally paid off, as we took the group of thirteen students and three leaders round the projects in the Gorbals and Easterhouse.
It was a fantastic day! Jo, our new Verture CEO was there, and ended up acting as an impromptu tour guide when the group had to split up briefly. We were offered plentiful teas and coffees at Crossroads, before looking round their planned community garden space. At Pavillion, we heard about the proposed park development, and even sampled some Irn Bru :)
What struck me was not just what it meant to the students - many of whom had never ventured out of the USA before - but also what it meant to the neighbourhoods to have people coming so far to visit them. When we saw the Denmilne Action Group’s new space in Easterhouse, I asked Finlay and Marion whether they had had American tourists before - “no” was the resounding response. So we are really breaking new ground with this project, and I know it is something that will stay with all concerned for a long time.
Do you want to say hello to the group from Arcadia? Come along to the Glasgow Future Fair on Thursday! The students will have a space to chat to people about life in Philadelphia, and what they have learned on their trip so far. Book your free tickets now :)
