Expansion 2026: Between Two Worlds(Discussion Panel, Vendors, & Performers)
About this Event
Discover the power of storytelling, culture, and connection at Expansion 2026. Every story has the power to change the way we see the world.
What is it really like to leave your home and build a life somewhere new?
What does it feel like to grow up between two cultures, balancing different languages, traditions, expectations, and identities?
How do immigration and bicultural identity shape a person's sense of belonging, family, and community?
Join us for Expansion 2026: Between Two Worlds, an afternoon of storytelling, cultural celebration, and meaningful conversation centered on the lived experiences of immigrants and bicultural individuals. Through authentic dialogue and interactive experiences, we'll explore the challenges, strengths, resilience, and richness that come with navigating life between cultures.
Whether you're an immigrant yourself, part of a bicultural family, or simply want to better understand the experiences of those around you, you'll leave with new perspectives, meaningful connections, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse stories that strengthen our communities.
Learn More About Expansion 2026
www.greenhousegives.org/expansion
What to Expect:
✨ Live Panel Discussion
Hear directly from individuals with lived experience as they share personal stories, answer audience questions, and explore topics surrounding immigration, identity, belonging, family, resilience, and culture.
🎭 Cultural Performances
Experience music, dance, ceremonies, and other artistic traditions that celebrate the richness of diverse cultures.
🛍️ Cultural Marketplace
Meet local artists, nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations sharing products, services, and resources that reflect and support immigrant and bicultural communities.
🤝 Community Connection
Connect with people from across the Valley who value compassion, curiosity, and learning from one another.
Our Live Talk Show Experience
Rather than a traditional lecture, Expansion is designed as an engaging, interactive talk show.
Our moderator guides a thoughtful conversation with panelists while inviting audience questions and participation throughout the event. This format creates an authentic, conversational atmosphere where stories unfold naturally and meaningful dialogue can happen.
Meet Our Panelists
- Anjana Nambissan — Indian immigrant • NeuroSomatic Practitioner & Emotional Wellness Coach
- Elisa Reyes — Honduran-born Afro-Latina • Registered Nurse & Founder of Shamanic Nurse
- Agnes Mburu — Kenyan immigrant • Founder of WAKENYA United
- Patrick Thomas — First-generation Irish American • Mental Health Professional & Founder of Impact Counseling Services
Visit our website to read their full biographies and learn more about their stories. www.greenhousegives.org/expansion
Why You Should Attend?
You'll have the opportunity to:
- Learn directly from lived experiences.
- Better understand immigration and bicultural identity.
- Challenge common misconceptions and stereotypes.
- Celebrate cultural diversity through performances and local vendors.
- Meet compassionate, curious people who care about building stronger communities.
- Support Greenhouse Gives' mission of fostering belonging, equity, and human connection.
What is Expansion?
Expansion is Greenhouse Gives' annual community outreach and advocacy event. Each year, Expansion explores a different community or social issue by bringing together a diverse panel of individuals with lived experience to foster awareness, compassion, and cultural understanding. Through storytelling, conversation, and interactive experiences, we aim to uplift underrepresented voices, challenge stereotypes and systemic barriers, and create opportunities for communities to learn from one another. Our goal is to create a space where curiosity, empathy, and authentic dialogue can flourish.
Our hope is that every attendee leaves with a broader perspective, deeper compassion, and a renewed appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape our communities.
This is your chance to be part of something bigger, build bridges across cultures, deepen your understanding of the experiences that shape our communities, and discover that while our journeys may be different, our shared humanity connects us all.
Event Details & Pricing
Date: Sunday, August 30th, 2026
Time: 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Location: Humanist Society of Greater Phoenix – 697 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Mesa, AZ 85201
Tickets: Sliding Scale Admission to keep the event accessible to all while supporting our costs
- Suggested donation: $10
- Free tickets available (no questions asked)
- Supporter tickets: $20 (includes preferred seating, perks, and helps fund future events!)
Directions
The Humanist Society of Greater Phoenix is located at 697 W Rio Salado Pkwy in Mesa, AZ. The center is on the south side of Rio Salado Pkwy and is easiest to enter coming from the west so you can turn right into the center.
Free Parking
About 30 spots on-site, plus free neighborhood street parking across Rio Salado Pkwy on N Cherry and side streets off of N Date across Rio Salado Pkwy
Accessibility
Wheelchair-friendly throughout most of the venue; the garden area has steps and is not currently wheelchair-accessible
We are committed to ensuring that all attendees have a comfortable and inclusive experience. If you require any additional accommodations, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team members will be available on-site to assist and provide support as needed.
Be Part of the Experience
Expansion is more than an event—it's a community effort.
We're currently accepting applications for:
- Vendors
- Performers
- Volunteers
- Sponsors
If you'd like to help create this experience or know someone who would be a great fit, we'd love to hear from you.
Learn more and apply at
Together, we can foster empathy, celebrate diversity, and create a more compassionate and connected world. We can’t wait to see you at Expansion!
More About Greenhouse Gives:
Greenhouse Gives 501(c)(3) strives to provide safe spaces for self-expression, connection and unity. Throughout this event, Greenhouse Gives will be promoting their three pillars of awareness, compassion and interconnectedness.
✨ Our Mission: Greenhouse Gives provides compassionate action and community outreach to build awareness of our interconnectedness and foster personal and collective growth.
🌐 Learn more about Greenhouse Gives:
Visit www.greenhousegives.org
Follow us on Instagram/Facebook: @greenhousegives
Questions? Contact: [email protected]
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 23.18
