Building Creativity for Social Change
Guest Speakers and Special Workshops
Our guest speaker series is a cornerstone of the NYC SALT experience, connecting students with the creative leaders shaping today’s visual landscape. Each semester, we invite acclaimed photographers, editors, curators, and innovators from diverse backgrounds to share their journeys, insights, and expertise. These engaging sessions go beyond technical skills—students gain firsthand industry knowledge, learn about emerging trends, and discover the many career paths available within and beyond photography. By fostering direct dialogue and mentorship, our guest speakers inspire students to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and envision their own creative futures.
What makes this series uniquely powerful at SALT is its role in building social capital—a vital but often overlooked resource for young creatives. Social capital, the network of relationships and connections that open doors to opportunities, is a proven driver of educational and career success, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Through our guest speaker program, students don’t just learn from the best—they forge meaningful connections with professionals who can become mentors, advocates, and collaborators. These relationships provide access to resources, advice, and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach, helping to level the playing field and empower students to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
At SALT, we believe that who you know can be just as important as what you know. Our commitment to cultivating social capital sets us apart, ensuring that every student leaves our program not only with advanced creative skills but also with a supportive network that continues to grow with them throughout their journey.
