Catalyzing the Journey at SXSW EDU 2025
What was the biggest takeaway from Catalyze at SXSW EDU 2025? Careers aren’t linear, and neither is learning. Career-Connected Learning (CCL) provides the roadmap that empowers all learners to design their own journeys. #NoWrongTurns
Throughout the week as we engaged in discussions, networking opportunities, and creative storytelling, we invited participants to reflect on their own career journeys, embrace non-linear pathways, and contribute to building a future where every learner is equipped to navigate their own path.
See below for a recap and be on the lookout as we share more about our time at SXSW EDU in the coming weeks!
“#SXSWEDU was a wonderful experience! Special shoutout to Catalyze for their insightful session for grantees to collaborate. There were many great moments, but the highlight for me was connecting with others doing this work and being reminded that joy and work can coexist.”
Community of Practice events: CCL practitioners from Catalyze grantee organizations attended our private events designed exclusively for the community – an offsite happy hour and a grantee and funder breakfast to promote connection, learning, and celebration of collective impact.
Public Events: More than 100 people joined us for our public workshop to explore learner-centered activities, and 77 people attended our public meet-up networking event to connect with our grantee practitioners and learn about innovation in CCL.
Catalyze grantees, funders and staff at SXSW EDU 2025
“As my career evolved, I’ve often wondered how I can give back to my rural roots. But with REACH Pathways, I’ve finally found a way to bring my career full circle. Through the Catalyze community, I’ve started connecting with incredible organizations in rural communities in Alabama, Texas, and Arkansas — exploring how our platform can serve under-resourced learners across the country. If you’re serving rural youth with career guidance, please REACH out to me!”
A special thanks to unCommon Construction, REACH Pathways, Chicago Scholars, Scoutlier by Aecern, and CAST Schools for sharing your insights and experiences at our public workshops.
