Rooted in Community: Earth Day Austin 2025 at Huston-Tillotson University

On Saturday, I revisited Earth Day Austin Festival for 2025 at Huston-Tillotson University (HT) — a celebration that brought together culture, community, and climate action in the heart of East Austin. As someone who works at the intersection of sustainability, communications, and public outreach, this event offered not only an energizing way to celebrate Earth Month but also a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people come together to support and promote conservation, equity to access and services, workforce education, and environmentalism during these current social times.

This year’s theme, “Rooted in Community,” felt strong in terms of the support of vendors, action groups, and city services — from the indoor inflatable planetarium and cultural performances on the main stage, to the various panels, interactive exhibits, and conversations I had at booths. The event was part of HT’s 150th anniversary programming, and was supported by volunteers and students, which included performances by the students too.

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Finding Community and Creativity at #Ad2TheConvo: Hustlers Panel & Networking

On April 9th, I had the pleasure of attending #Ad2TheConvo: Hustlers Panel & Networking at RichesArt Gallery in East Austin — an event hosted by Ad 2 Austin and sponsored by Spotter. I walked in expecting a solid panel discussion and some casual networking. I walked out feeling deeply inspired, more connected to the local creative scene, and affirmed in my own journey as a communications professional exploring new ground.

The night centered on a panel of four women entrepreneurs — all self-made, all proudly tied to their culture, and all navigating the highs and lows of side-hustling in Austin. Panelists included Julia Wezio, co-founder of ATX Grand Prix Club; Karla Martinez, founder of Betty Bobble; Kassandra Chapa, founder of Firulais Co.; and Marisa Garza, founder of KEFI by MG. Each of these women shared the story of how they launched their ventures, what keeps them motivated, and how their personal and cultural identities are woven into the fabric of their brands.

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Texas VegFest: Celebrating 10 Years of Community and Compassion

I spent my Saturday afternoon soaking up the energy, flavors, and creativity at the 10th annual Texas VegFest—and it did not disappoint. Held at Fiesta Gardens along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, this year’s event brought together an incredible mix of food vendors, nonprofits, musicians, and plant-based enthusiasts from all over Austin. Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or just hungry and open-minded, this festival had something for everyone.

The weather was a little unpredictable (classic Austin spring), but that didn’t stop the crowds. I wandered through rows of vendor tents sampling all kinds of veggie-based goodies—from BBQ tempeh sliders to vegan tamales to inventive dairy-free desserts. And of course, I picked up my fair share of stickers, tote bags, and free swag along the way.

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Launch Pad Job Club’s Orientation: Navigating Job Search Strategies

On April 4th, I had the opportunity to attend the Launch Pad Job Club’s New Member Orientation at the ACC Highland Learning Center, a place I had never visited before but was eager to check out. The former mall turned high-tech, eco-friendly community college campus was buzzing with students and job seekers alike, making it the perfect setting for this unique workshop and networking event.

The New Member Orientation is designed to help individuals who are new to the club or returning after a hiatus, providing a space for support and professional development. It’s held weekly on Fridays, offering a chance for members to gather virtually or in person for career coaching, advice, and motivation. As someone currently in the job search trenches, I was eager to see what insights the session could offer, and I was not disappointed.

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PEAS Community Farm “Spring into Fun Day”

I went to the “Spring into Fun Day” garden tour hosted at Cummingham Elementary by PEAS (Partners for Education, Agriculture, and Sustainability.) During my time in Austin, I’ve crossed paths with PEAS’ educational and outreach efforts. I’m very impressed with what they have achieved and how they leverage partnerships within the community.

After parking and walking onto the school grounds, I headed over to the elementary school garden. This is both an educational and production garden. Students are taught how to grow and care for produce, along with science lessons.

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Surreal Gardens Art Exhibit

Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin, Texas, held an Instagram-able art exhibit called Surreal Gardens with neon lights and sculptures. I was very interested in attending this event because I have a special attachment to the gardens visiting with my grandmother, and the event looked really intriguing.

Ion Art is excited to announce our next Surreal event with the debut of The Surreal Garden at the Zilker Botanical Garden! The Surreal series is an annual interactive art experience full of fantastical neon pieces created by Sharon Keshishian and the Ion Art team. By integrating the exhibit into the serene setting of the enchanting botanical gardens, the already stunning art event becomes a phenomenal experience and a wonderful way to benefit The Garden.

— Ion Art’s Surreal Garden Webpage

I arrived early so I could see the art during the daylight hours first. The walk through the Gardens was nice. I found the Cretacious Gardens the most interesting with the featured sculptures.

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