Culture and Social Change with Rubén Blades
Rubén Blades, Grammy-winning musician, actor, activist, and former Minister of Tourism of Panama, will appear in conversation with Dr. Carlos Chirinos of New York University at the 2026 International SBCC Summit.
Blades will reflect on the power of storytelling, culture and music to shape public understanding, strengthen communities and inspire social change.
Widely recognized as one of the most influential voices in Latin American music, Blades has built a body of work that examines themes of identity, justice, migration, inequality, family and civic responsibility. His songs have connected with audiences across generations while demonstrating how popular culture can contribute to broader conversations about social change.
Rubén Blades' plenary aligns perfectly with this year's Summit theme: "The Power of Connection: Reimagining Knowledge, Action and Equity in a Changing SBCC Landscape." The Summit will explore innovative strategies for addressing complex social challenges through communication, collaboration, and community engagement.
Confirmed Speaker: Ruben Blades
Moderator: Dr. Carlos Chirinos, New York University
Culture and Social Change with Rubén Blades
Rubén Blades, Grammy-winning musician, actor, activist, and former Minister of Tourism of Panama, will appear in conversation with Dr. Carlos Chirinos of New York University at the 2026 International SBCC Summit. Blades will reflect on the power of storytelling, culture and music to shape public understanding, strengthen communities and inspire social change. Widely recognized as one of the most influential voices in Latin American music, Blades has built a body of work that examines themes of identity, justice, migration, inequality, family and civic responsibility. His songs have connected with audiences across generations while demonstrating how popular culture can contribute to broader conversations about social change. Rubén Blades' plenary aligns perfectly with this year's Summit theme: "The Power of Connection: Reimagining Knowledge, Action and Equity in a Changing SBCC Landscape." The Summit will explore innovative strategies for addressing complex social challenges through communication, collaboration, and community engagement.
Confirmed Speaker: Ruben Blades
Moderator: Dr. Carlos Chirinos, New York University
Sala de Banquetes América - 1 and 2 (Plenary) International Social and Behavior Change Communication Summit info@sbccsummit.orgTechnical Issues?
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