What does the future look like in 2026—and who gets to imagine it?
Kick off the Night of Ideas with a dynamic opening session powered by student voices from partner universities. In a series of bold, fast-paced pitches, emerging thinkers tackle some of today’s most urgent questions: Where have all the utopias gone? Can technology still serve the common good? Is critical thinking under threat? And in an age of algorithms, where do real debates still happen?
Drawing from film, literature, video games, and digital culture, these young speakers challenge dominant narratives and propose new ways of thinking about climate action, democracy, and collective futures. Expect fresh perspectives, sharp insights, and ideas that provoke as much as they inspire.
The session culminates with a keynote response from civil rights leader and former Atlanta mayor Andrew Young, who will reflect on these ideas, share lessons from his own extraordinary journey, and open the path to the evening’s thematic discussions.
An inspiring start to a night dedicated to questioning, imagining, and shaping the world to come.
The Civic Market will be a lively gathering space where Atlanta-based nonprofits host tables to present their work, engage with the public, and connect with potential donors and volunteers.
Beyond visibility, the Civic Market is designed as a space for encounter and cross-pollination, allowing organizations to learn from one another, explore collaboration, and imagine forms of mutualization and collective action. By bringing together initiatives working across culture, climate, food justice, civic innovation, and community engagement, the Civic Market aims to strengthen civic participation and nurture a more connected, resilient civic ecosystem in the Greater Atlanta area.
Thanks to the Institut Français XR Catalogue and Fulton County Arts and Culture, Villa Albertine has selected four stunning virtual reality creations for the Night of Ideas, bringing art, culture, and stories to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Put on your headset and immerse yourself in 360° digital worlds for a unique experience.
Get ready to see, hear, and interact with imagination itself.
More info on the page VR & Music
At a time when the concentration of power, monopolies, and consumerism are limiting our collective capacity to shape society, how can we bring communities and younger generations together to debate, participate, and imagine desirable futures?
This panel will explore how civil society actors and young people are rethinking democratic participation, building new networks, using digital tools to open up spaces for dialogue, and responding as engaged citizens to today’s pressing challenges: climate change, social inequalities, public health, responsible consumption, and more.
A Living Library is a space where books are not made of paper, but of people. “Readers” can borrow these “living books” for a limited time – usually up to 30 minutes – to engage in one-on-one conversations.
First organized in Denmark in 2000, the Living Library has since been adopted by more than 600 organizations worldwide. Its core mission is to create a safe and open space for dialogue, where prejudices can be challenged and personal experiences shared. It offers a unique opportunity for mutual understanding, storytelling, and learning.
Living Books share parts of their personal stories, commitments, and life journeys. Through direct conversation, readers are invited to ask questions and engage in meaningful exchange. Each Living Book remains free to choose what they wish to share—or not share.
The Living Library is an interactive format that fosters dialogue, empathy, and the exchange of lived experiences. Rather than borrowing traditional books, participants “borrow” individuals—community leaders, experts, witnesses, or professionals—who offer insight into their personal and professional paths.
The Enlightenment promised progress through reason, yet cities like Atlanta still reflect deep divides—between rapid tech growth and unequal access to opportunity. Similar tensions shape Marseille, where green transformation coexists with persistent inequality. As Atlanta rises as a tech hub, this panel explores how investments in infrastructure, housing, and education—guided by community voices—can build a more inclusive future and fulfill the city’s promise to all.