Summary
This week, we viewed four videos that demonstrated to us what social innovation and ambition means, how we can make a change through social entrepreneurship and an insight into what The Ballard Center is and successes that have stemmed from being a part of it. We studied two articles, "The Meaning of Social Entrepreneurship" and "Rediscovering Social Entrepreneurship". In Rediscovering Social Entrepreneurship (Fall 2008), the authors present a broader meaning as to what social innovation entails and it's processes, which includes the converging of sectors where ideas and values are exchanged, and the blending of various resources that create social value. They redefine the following known terms: social, social enterprise, social value, innovation and social entrepreneurship. They also redefine social innovation to be: "A novel solution to a social problem that is more effective, efficient, sustainable, or just than existing solutions and for which the value created accrues primarily to society as whole rather than private individuals". In The Meaning of Social Entrepreneurship (2001), we learn of the origin of the word "entrepreneur" and the differences between social and business entrepreneurs. We are taught the current theories of entrepreneurship and continue to read of how social entrepreneurship is defined. It is described, in depth, as social entrepreneurs "playing the role of change agents in the social sector by: adopting a mission to create and sustain social value, recognizing and relentlessly pursuing new opportunities to serve that mission, engaging in a process of continuous innovation, adaptation and learning, acting boldly without being limited resources currently in hand, and exhibiting heightened accountability to the constituencies served and for the outcomes created". It concludes by stating that not every leader in the social sector will be entrepreneurial, but those that are deserve the recognition and support needed in order to bring about necessary improvement to our society.
Response to Specific Reading, Video or Activity
One of the videos that I really enjoyed was the one titled "The Ballard Center: Social Innovation Lives Here". First of all, I was surprised to read that "Brigham Young University is one of the leading academic centers for social innovation". It was incredibly empowering to see that the university that I attend has this resource and truly lives the words the Savior preached about the importance in being disciples of Jesus Christ in all that we do. It was inspiring to see that I can make a living by doing something I'm passionate about, while also contributing to a positive and long-lasting impact on the systems that need to change in our society. Out of all of the wonderful stories, I was most touched by learning of Daniel Blake, the CEO of EcoScraps. His innovative idea turned food waste into premium grade potting soil & compost mix, which by extension, provides jobs, and aids those that need this for their businesses and homes. I was happy to see that there are alternatives such as this one that will continue to inspire future social entrepreneurs with their backstory.
Response to Prompt
One of the reasons why social innovation is more prevalent today is because social activism is more widely accepted. When there is something wrong with a system, individuals are no longer as persecuted for having a voice, but joined in their concern. As this occurs, people feel more supported in their desire to create social change. As times have advanced, we now have more resources, such as newer technology, to meet the demands of socially innovative ideas. Finally, the social expectations (and social clock) in our current society are not as rigid as before. This impacts our ability to make our socially innovative ideas into a reality because we don't always have to meet age-graded expectations, like college, first before we launch our own business. The mindset of today is different than the one of the past. The typical matters, such as family, marriage, and studies, are not as much of a priority. This gives room for individuals to pursue their compassionate desires and generate novel solutions to social problems.
