The Opportunity
The Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) brings together 25 organizations working to advance Detroit’s advanced mobility ecosystem. Although aligned in ambition, members often worked in parallel with limited connection to one another and to local organizations leading community engagement on the ground.
GEM leadership saw an opportunity: if the ecosystem was to thrive, relationships needed to deepen and connections forged. Greater empathy, shared understanding and meaningful collaboration would be essential to move from alignment in principle to partnership in practice.
The Journey
Emerging World partnered with GEM to design a Systemic Impact Approach centred on connection, shared perspective and collaborative problem-solving.
The journey began before the in-person convening. Two pre-engagement sessions created space for members to reflect on the current ecosystem and the future they wanted to shape together. This early dialogue built openness, clarified shared intent and laid the groundwork for trust.
During the immersive convening, corporate leaders engaged directly with community organizations through site visits and dialogue. Cross-sector teams then worked together on real challenges, combining professional expertise with local knowledge.
Rather than discussing change in the abstract, participants co-developed practical, actionable solutions that community-based organizations could take forward.
The Transformation
By creating space for honest dialogue and shared problem-solving, the coalition began moving from parallel effort to shared momentum. Participants built stronger relationships, shared resources and insights, and developed practical solutions grounded in community realities.
- 92% made new connections that will positively impact their work.
- 90% gained new perspectives influencing future decisions.
- Overall satisfaction rating of the immersive experience: 8.92.
“Thanks to this opportunity I walked away with connections that will positively move my project forward and therefore positively impacting those we serve.” – Community Partner
“The opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people and facilitate the talents and experiences of working together towards a problem-solving approach was invaluable.” – GEM Coalition Member
