Me to We: Designing for the Collective | Populous

Populous House:
Austin | March 16–17, 2026

Every breakthrough moment begins with one — an athlete, a performer, a fan — but its impact is collective.

Live experiences turn emotion into energy, individuals into communities, and moments into movements.

Populous designs the places where these moments happen.

During SXSW 2026, we’re creating a platform that explores how live experiences transform these individual moments into shared identity, culture, and belonging.

Who's Attending

Shantell Martin

Artist, Philosopher, Cultural Facilitator

Jonathan Vlassopulos

Managing Partner, A-Force Ventures

David Adelman

Partner HBSE/Philadelphia 76ers & Founder, Darco Capital

Dominic Audet

Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer, Moment Factory

Wilson W. Smith III

Former Nike Design Director

Pam Kramer

Chief Executive Officer, KC2026

Jonathan Mallie

Global Director | Managing Director, Americas, Populous

Ariana Vargas

Brand Strategy Director, Moderator, Populous

Michael Lockwood

Senior Principal, San Francisco, Populous

Brian Mirakian

Senior Principal, Kansas City, Populous

Jeff Keas

Senior Principal, Senior Event Architect, Denver, Populous

Dean Di Simone

Director, Studio Di Simone

Shantell Martin

Superfónicos

Lew Apollo

Walker Lukens

Mobley

Kuzi Cee

More Speakers to be Announced

Schedule

Monday, March 16

4:30 - 6:00 PM
Welcome Reception & Happy Hour
6:00 - 9:15 PM
Live Music Showcase
9:30 - 11:30 PM
Late Night DJ
Tuesday, March 17

10:00 - 3:00 PM
Panel Presentations & Performances
3:00 - 5:00 PM
Break
5:00 PM
Doors Re-Open
6:00 - 9:30 PM
Live Music Showcase
9:30 - 11:30 PM
Late Night DJ

Full Agenda Coming Soon

Across design, technology and culture, we’ll gather creators, leaders & change-makers to experience the forces shaping the undeniable future of gathering and the transformation of taking Me to We.

Sign up to be first to access program details, speaker announcements, and participation opportunities.