Make Today, Impact Tomorrow. What I love about The Maker City Summit
Written by TMC Summit Chair, Jasmine Newton
It's almost here! The 2023 Maker City Summit is welcoming makers of all types this September 8-10 at the Maker Exchange and I couldn't be more pumped to get the party started! As I serve for the second year as chair of this event, people ask me all the time about my feelings around the Summit and why I believe it's important to our community. I always respond with excitement and pride because it's one of my favorite things I do, aside from my portrait business. I believe in the mission of The Maker City and all that we do to help bring resources, events, and opportunities to our local makers who inspire us so much everyday. The Maker City Summit, to me, is a huge event that is meant to inspire, educate, connect, and celebrate the community that makes Knoxville as vibrant as it is.
At The Maker City Summit, we bring you the knowledge, inspiration, and practical know-how to ignite that creative spark within you. Through break-out sessions, engaging panel discussions, and amazing keynote speakers, you'll gain insights from industry experts and successful makers who are eager to share their wisdom and empower you on your own creative journey.
One of the things I absolutely adore about the Summit is the incredible opportunity to connect with kindred spirits who share a passion for making, creating and just having fun. Imagine being surrounded by individuals who are walking the path of creativity and entrepreneurship... just like you. It's a vibrant gathering of diverse talents, backgrounds, and stories. From seasoned professionals to budding creatives, you'll find yourself in a nurturing space where collaboration blooms naturally. Through our evening Soiree, which is a personal favorite of mine, it's very possible to forge meaningful relationships, dream up exciting projects, and build a support network that celebrates your wins and uplifts you during challenging times.
Our keynote speakers are carefully chosen to take you on a journey of triumphs, challenges, and the magic of creation. This year we are excited to have Thomas Evans a.k.a Detour, an all-around creative specializing in large scale public art, interactive visuals, portraiture, immersive spaces, and creative directing. We are also thrilled to have Natalie Franke, one of the founders of the Rising Tide Society, Chief Evangelist at Honeybook, and author of Built to Belong. Both speakers are powerhouses in their respective fields and come overflowing with advice and wisdom. Their stories will remind you that your dreams are worth pursuing and will resonate with your own journey, igniting the fire within and helping propel you forward.
Let's not forget about the FOOD! Everyone who knows me, knows I love food. Especially when it's something I have never had before. From delicate hors d'oeuvres to tasty lunches, Real Good Kitchen members will be making sure to inspire us through their culinary treats and I can't wait! A Summit isn't a Summit without great food that tells the story of our local cuisine here in Knoxville.
Just like last year, the Summit will take place at The Maker Exchange. It only seems right to continue to host the Summit at a venue that literally celebrates the makers of our community inside its walls. From the beautiful art displayed in The Curio, to the sculptures decorated throughout the space, it's impossible to walk around and not feel creatively inspired. I love all the colors, decor and overall feel of this venue and it makes it the perfect spot to connect, learn and get filled with new ideas and dreams!
This year at The Maker City Summit, our slogan is "Make Today, Impact Tomorrow." It's a powerful reminder that your creative endeavors hold the potential to make a lasting impact in our city and our world. By attending the Summit, you'll gain insights into industry trends, discover new tools and techniques, and equip yourself with the knowledge to shape a brighter future. You are not only investing in your own growth but also contributing to the collective impact of our vibrant maker community.
So, my fellow makers, mark your calendars, snatch your tickets, spread the word, and join us at The Maker 2023 City Summit September 8-10 at The Maker Exchange. Together, let's celebrate our creative spirit, forge lifelong connections, learn new things, and make a difference that resonates far beyond today. Let's continue to impact the world! I can't wait to meet you there!
- Jasmine
Jasmine Newton, owner of Javon Renee Portraits, is a luxury portrait photographer based in Knoxville, TN. Specializing in branding and legacy portrait experiences, she is dedicated to empowering women through her lens. Originally from Chicago, IL, Jasmine founded her business in June 2015, after recognizing that the corporate ladder was not for her. She is passionate about teaching fellow photographers and other creatives, helping them to discover their worth and take their businesses to new heights. Jasmine is also actively involved in her community as the leader of the Knoxville chapter of the Rising Tide Society, a member of the Mayor's Maker Council, and Summit Chair for the Maker City Summit. Her mission is to showcase the true essence of her clients and provide them with a beautiful portrait experience that promotes self-confidence, legacy and self-love.
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