Southern California – The Empowered Innovation Alliance (EIA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by artist-researcher and social innovator Yvette Dubel, is proud to announce its inaugural initiative, Designing Resilience. This transformative program aims to address critical societal challenges by equipping foster youth transitioning out of the system and survivors of human trafficking with essential skills for long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
Designing Resilience offers a unique blend of hands-on entrepreneurial training and art-based mental wellness support, paving the way for participants to explore sustainable career pathways, particularly in the green economy. The program focuses on the Remixed Upcycled Fashion industry, promoting environmental consciousness and creativity within the Southern California region.
In collaboration with esteemed partners Florin Diumea of Bright Business Project and Janice Rooth of the Center Against Racism and Trauma, the initiative integrates the Bright Business Operating System with Dubel’s Empowered Innovation System [CFAaP] and Personal Innovation Model. This comprehensive approach combines personal development, business acumen, and mentorship to create sustainable economic opportunities for participants.
To kickstart Designing Resilience, EIA is partnering with San Diego's Lemuel Blackett of Upgrade Philanthropy to host two key events: a fundraising mixer and a roundtable discussion. The fundraising mixer will bring together community members, business leaders, and nonprofit supporters to raise awareness and secure resources for the initiative. The roundtable discussion will unite key stakeholders—including program participants, policymakers, industry experts, funders, and grantmakers—to identify needs, explore opportunities, and shape strategies for the three-year pilot program. These collaborative efforts aspire to develop a scalable model that empowers vulnerable youth and survivors in redesigning their lives.
“At Empowered Innovation Alliance, we believe that real change begins with empowering individuals to reclaim their futures,” said Yvette Dubel, founder of EIA and creator of the Empowered Innovation System. “With designing Resilience, we’re not just designing a program—we’re seeking the right partners to help create a supportive community, cultivating new opportunities, and fostering innovation that enables young people to break cycles of vulnerability and build self-sufficient, fulfilling lives.”
Creating Sustainable Business Models with Equity and Social Responsibility at Their Core
Sustainable business models that prioritize equity and social responsibility are essential for long-term economic stability. Designing Resilience goes beyond job creation by fostering meaningful work opportunities that align with participants' values and aspirations. The initiative supports the development of ethical enterprises where individuals contribute to socially and environmentally responsible business ecosystems. Research indicates that employees engaged in purposeful work are significantly more committed, productive, and likely to remain with their organizations. By embedding equity and sustainability into its core, Designing Resilience not only enhances individual fulfillment but also strengthens communities by designing businesses that generate lasting social impact.
Combating Homelessness Through Economic Empowerment
Economic instability is a primary factor contributing to homelessness. By equipping vulnerable populations with entrepreneurial skills and sustainable employment opportunities, Designing ×Resilience addresses the root causes of homelessness, fostering pathways to financial independence and housing stability.
Environmental Impact and Industry Growth of Remixed Upcycled Fashion
*"The fashion industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with annual GHGs from textile production estimated at 1.2 billion tonnes of CO₂-equivalent. This exceeds the combined emissions from international flights and maritime shipping. These emissions arise largely from energy-intensive production processes and synthetic materials like polyester.
The Remixed Upcycled Fashion sector offers a sustainable alternative by repurposing existing materials, thereby reducing waste and environmental impact. As consumer awareness grows, this industry is poised for significant expansion, presenting ample opportunities for innovation and economic growth.
EIA is actively seeking additional partners, funders, and grantmakers across Southern California to expand the reach and impact of the Designing Resilience initiative. Organizations and individuals interested in collaborating to support this vital cause are encouraged to connect with EIA.
For partnership opportunities, funding inquiries, or media inquiries, please contact Lemuel Blackett at Lemuel@philanthropyupgrade.com or visit: https://empoweredinnovationalliance.org
About Empowered Innovation Alliance
The Empowered Innovation Alliance (EIA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing social innovation through art-based frameworks, entrepreneurship, and systemic change. Established by artist-researcher Yvette Dubel, EIA is committed to dismantling systemic barriers and empowering individuals to build sustainable futures. Its initiatives seamlessly blend personal empowerment with actionable strategies, driving lasting impact for marginalized communities.
Yvette Dubel
Florin Diumea
Bright Business Project
Empowered Innovation Alliance
Southern California Combatting Homelessness
