Social Change From Below

About The Event

The world is off its hinges. The ripple effects of crises like climate change or the ongoing war in the Middle East have not yet fully reached Norway's borders. One thing is certain: when they do, it is vulnerable local communities that will be hit hardest.

NyeRøtter invites you to a dialogue workshop exploring how we ourselves can create the social changes we wish our politicians would take the initiative on. Not least: how do we build resilient local communities characterised by solidarity, joy, and a sense of agency?

We will have opening presentations from experienced "social changemakers," explore topics together, and anyone carrying an unrealised idea will have the opportunity to spar with the presenters, with us in NyeRøtter, or with fellow participants.

Joining us are:

Ole Pedersen, local community champion and social entrepreneur running a non-profit limited company with the fitting name Nedenfra ("From Below"). Nedenfra is a partner in Pådriv and supported by Tøyen Unlimited. Ole has been a driving force behind initiatives such as Hauskvartalet, XmunchX, and Tøyen Boligbyggelag.

Ragnhild Olaussen, Head of Section for Community Development in Bydel Bjerke and programme leader for the neighbourhood improvement initiatives (områdeløft) in the district. She holds a degree in ecological economics, has a deep commitment to systemic change, and is co-author of a new academic article — "Together Against Social Exclusion? Districts as Community Developers" — published in the Journal of Welfare Research.

Practical Information

• The event starts with short introductions from our speakers, followed by an open dialogue with the audience.

• After the main session, we’ll keep the space open for those who want to stay a bit longer, continue conversations, or get feedback on ideas.

• The event is free and open to everyone. No prior experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to engage.
  
  

What You’ll Take With You

• You’ll leave with a clearer sense of what “social change from below” can actually look like in practice.

• Maybe you’re sitting on an idea and not sure where to start. Or you’ve been involved in something already but feel stuck. This is a space to test thoughts, hear how others are approaching similar challenges, and realise you’re not the only one thinking about this.

• Expect new perspectives, some honest conversations, and hopefully a bit more confidence to take the next small step, whatever that looks like for you.