Schedule
CPX: 2025 Schedule
Creative Professionals Exchange (CPX) is a full-day gathering designed to spark meaningful connection, reflection, and action. The day opens with an inspiring keynote and a hands-on group workshop that explores the needs and challenges facing Western New York communities. From there, attendees will engage directly with local service organizations in two dynamic sessions combining panel discussion and collaborative problem-solving.
​
Throughout the day, you'll experience interactive presentations, peer learning, and time for creative reflection—all with space built in for networking, snacks, and lunch. We’ll wrap up with a powerful closing session led by a respected artist working in community-centered practice. Full details coming soon!
Creative Professionals Exchange Schedule
8:30 am - 9:00 am
Registration, Breakfast, & Networking
9:00 am - 9:45 am
Art Appetizer
Alexa & Edreys Wajed of Eat Off Art
Kick off the day with an Art Appetizer from these visionary artists and entrepreneurs. Their session will spark collaboration, reflection, and energy for the day ahead.
9:45 am - 11:00 am
ALICE Experience Simulation with Ariel Davis of the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County
Participate in the ALICE Experience Simulation, an interactive workshop that reveals the hidden struggles of financial hardship and its wide-reaching impact on our neighbors.
11:00 am - 11:15 am
Break
Gather your energy before the upcoming session.
11:15 am - 12:45 pm
Service Organization Panel + Collaborative Scenarios:
Session 1
Hear directly from local service organizations doing vital work across the region. After a brief panel, you’ll team up for a hands-on scenario-building workshop designed to inspire creative solutions and future collaborations.
12:45 pm - 1:30 pm
Lunch & Networking
Refuel and reconnect during our lunch break. Lunch will be provided - dietary preferences and restrictions, will be taken into account.
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Service Organization Panel + Collaborative Scenarios:
Session 2
Hear directly from local service organizations doing vital work across the region. After a brief panel, you’ll team up for a hands-on scenario-building workshop designed to inspire creative solutions and future collaborations.
3:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Break
Gather your energy before the upcoming session.
3:15 pm - 4:00 pm
Creative Placemaking with Saira Siddiqui of SAIRA Creative
In our closing session, Saira will guide us through a presentation on Creative Placemaking, helping us connect the day’s themes to real-world action and community building.
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Closing & Happy Hour
Unwind, raise your glass, and toast to a successful conference. Whether you prefer a mocktail or a classic cocktail, this one is one us!