Seeing the Whole: Systems Thinking for Social Innovation

Social challenges are rarely isolated problems. They emerge from complex relationships, structures, and behaviours that shape how communities and systems evolve. This interactive workshop introduces systems thinking as a practical approach for understanding that complexity and identifying opportunities for meaningful innovation. Participants will explore tools and concepts for mapping systems, identifying patterns and leverage points, and moving beyond symptoms toward the underlying conditions that shape social challenges. Through hands-on activities, this workshop will connect systems thinking to the design and development of innovative responses that can create change. Who will you hear from? Kurt White, Manager, Programs, University of Calgary's Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking Ashley Dion, Systems Learning Lead, Mount Royal University's Institute for Community Prosperity, Head of Map the System Canada. Built Here. Backed Here. Calgary Innovation Week is the city-wide moment that brings Calgary’s innovation ecosystem into full view. Across the week, founders, industry, investors, talent and community organizations come together to share what they’re building, make connections, and show the strength of what’s being built here – and backed – here. By registering for this event, you acknowledge that Platform Calgary (the organization), as well as third-party organizations hosting activities in the shared public spaces of Platform Innovation Centre (the venue), may capture photos, audio, and video recordings. These materials may include your image or likeness and may be used for promotional purposes, including marketing, social media, and other communications by the respective organizations. Since the event is held in a public space with multiple users, complete exclusion from photography or recording cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, your name and contact information may be shared with select event sponsors for the purpose of post-event engagement. This is intended to enhance your event experience and provide relevant follow-up from participating partners. The collection and use of personal information complies with Alberta’s PIPA and Canada’s PIPEDA. For more details on how we handle personal information, please see our Privacy Policy.