MAKATI CITY — One Ayala by Ayala Malls, in partnership with futures research and design collective Forge Futures, will host a free "Placemaking & Community Futures Workshop" on August 9, 2026, at The Space at One Ayala. The workshop invites LGBTQ+ community members and allies to reflect on their shared experiences and imagine what solidarity can look like in the spaces we inhabit. It poses a timely question: what happens to public spaces after the parades of Pride Month end and the rainbow logos come down? Can open, urban spaces be truly inclusive? This event seeks to answer these questions by fostering a dialogue on how public spaces can evolve to become more welcoming for everyone.
A Creative Space for Dialogue and Imagination
The workshop will share insights from a "Futures of Allyship Report" by cultural writer Angel Martinez, followed by a facilitated dialogue led by futurists Marite P. Irvine and Katherine Diaz. Participants will explore how spaces can be designed to foster a sense of belonging, safety, and community for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. The event is part of Ayala Malls' broader "Our Common Place" initiative, which reimagines retail environments as flexible "third spaces" for work, rest, connection, and community support. By opening up its spaces for this dialogue, One Ayala demonstrates how malls can evolve beyond commerce into inclusive, movement-friendly environments that respond to the rhythm of modern life.
An Engaging Community Experience
This workshop reflects a growing recognition that public spaces play a crucial role in shaping social connections and community well-being. By bringing together diverse voices, the event aims to generate actionable ideas for creating more inclusive and equitable urban environments. The collaboration between One Ayala and Forge Futures highlights the importance of partnerships between the private sector and community organizations in driving meaningful social change. Through initiatives like this, Makati continues to position itself as a city that values diversity, inclusion, and forward-thinking community development.
Plan Your Visit
The workshop will take place on Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM at The Space at One Ayala (Level 5). Admission is free of charge, but limited spots are available. Interested participants are encouraged to sign up at http://bit.ly/ForgeAlly. Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the conversation on building inclusive public spaces in Makati and beyond.
