My 2019 HubWeek Highlights, Boston: Day 2
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
What is HubWeek?
HubWeek, a fall festival in Boston, Massachusetts, was created by The Boston Globe, Harvard University, MIT, and Massachusetts General Hospital in 2014. HubWeek features innovative thought leaders in art, science, and technology, who are building a better future.
Stay true to your beliefs.
One of my favorite discussions of the day was Ethics in Tech: A Framework for Redemption. Adi Ignatius, editor-in-cheif, Harvard Business Review, moderated the discussion with Rana El Kaliouby, Co-Founder & CEO, Affectiva, and Danielle Allen, James Bryant Conant University Professor, Harvard University.
Dr. El Kaliouby impressed me. When Affectiva was a start-up company, they could barely make payroll. They turned down a $40 million investor to avoid going into surveillance. Fortunately, they were able to raise funding from other investors, who aligned with their values. This blew me away.
Affectiva stands for getting stuff done, having high integrity and ethics, valuing human connection, learning and innovating, being passionate, and enjoying the journey. Dr. El Kaliouby embodied these attributes.
After she presented, I saw her waiting for her ride. I approached her and told her how much I appreciated her discussion. I always look at a person’s values above all else, and the fact that she could walk away from $40 million to stand by her beliefs was amazing. Her associates are lucky to have a leader like her.
Banish negativity.
During another presentation, Udit Batra, CEO of MilliporeSigma made an interesting comment, when he was interviewed by Richard Berke, co-founder and executive editor, STAT. He said when you have a vision that all agree on and then there are naysayers, get rid of them – fast. It is okay to make small mistakes to push the goal forward. But, do not let the naysayers ruin the vision. Clearing negativity helps foster a positive work environment, enabling success.
Boston is a small town.
I wanted to attend Building Disruptive Brands, but I did not know where the location was. I stopped at the desk to ask for directions, and I was told to follow a girl who was on her way there. She turned around, and that girl happened to be one of my high school friend’s niece, Laura. We headed over to the discussion, together. There, we met up with her aunt, Linda. We watched Glossier present, and I also learned about a neat travel company, AutoCamp. It was fun to run into folks from my hometown and attend a session with others.
Follow your dreams.
Another favorite presenter of the day was Chris Burkard, owner and photographer, Chris Burkard Studio. First, we watched a video, Under an Arctic Sky. The movie documented surfers chasing the waves in Iceland. I loved everything about it. Their challenges. Their determination. The gorgeous Icelandic landscapes, which reminded me of my vacation in Iceland. Their perseverance. The rewards they received for following their passions. The photography. Everything.
During the Q&A, I asked Chris if he would consider going to Antarctica. He said Antarctica is difficult, but given the opportunity, he would take it. He explained how the destination is expensive and getting the right surf can be challenging. Although he discussed the drawbacks, his eyes sparkled. I wondered if I may have touched upon his passion project/dream. At that thought, my lips curled up.
Burkard also explained how he only travels for a job opportunity. Antarctica has been on my bucket list for quite some time. I have done the research, and I know how crazy expensive and challenging it is to visit. I hope one day someone pays him to film there.
Silly banter.
After the session, I headed to the clubhouse. I ended up conversing with a woman about Burkard’s movie and discussion. I told her how I have always wanted to visit Antarctica. She told me to write a letter to Kristine Tompkins to see if she would commission a trip there for me. I laughed, but it was fun to chat about. When I got home, Facebook served me up an opportunity to spend a month in Antarctica for free. I applied, but I did not win.
I left day 2 feeling giddy, inspired, and dreamy. Off to the train I went to catch my ride home.
Check out my other HubWeek blogs:
- Silent Disco at HubWeek 2017, Boston
- A Night at HubWeek 2018, Boston
- My 2019 HubWeek Highlights, Boston: Day 1
- My 2019 HubWeek Highlights, Boston: Day 3
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