Unpack the scripts.
Sort through the expectations you’ve inherited. What feels like yours? What are you still figuring out?
Sound familiar?
You’ve been showing up
for everyone.
What about you?
Hi, I’m Chen. Maybe you’ve done the sensible thing, met the expectations, kept going. But “What do I want?” has become a surprisingly difficult question.
I’m creating this afternoon for us to pause with that question, together. We’ll write, make things, and talk if we want to. You don’t need a big story to share or a big decision to make—just a little curiosity about what comes next.
I’d love to have you there. — Chen
What we’ll actually do
A little less “should.”
A little more possibility.
Guided prompts, creative activities, optional conversations, and breaks along the way.
Try on a possibility.
Write, draw, and imagine what you might want—without having to commit to a change.
Find a next step.
Explore your choices and exchange encouragement, skills, or resources with other women.
Take home your own “What Comes Next” card: a question, a possibility, or a small next step.
You don’t have to
have the answers.
Come on your own or with a friend. Write privately, join a conversation, or simply listen. Share as much or as little as you choose.
You can pass, step out, and return. No personal history or trauma disclosure is required.
A few things you might wonder
A little more
before you come.
Your host: Chenyao (Chen) Zhang, Ph.D.
I’m a sociologist and the founder of Reflections Collective. I’ll bring the questions and structure; what you make of them is yours.
Is this for me?
This gathering is for women who want space to reflect on their own voice, choices, and what comes next. You don’t need a clear goal, a finished story, or experience with reflective activities.
Curiosity is enough. You’re welcome to listen, take your time, and choose how you participate.
How will the afternoon flow?
Proposed agenda · 12–5 pm Eastern Time. Activities may be refined as plans come together.
- 12:00–1:25 · Arrive & explore. Welcome, The Invisible Script, and Mine / Not Mine / Still Figuring It Out. Break until 1:40.
- 1:40–2:50 · Voice & possibility. Writing, drawing, and exploration through Finding My Voice Again and The Possibility Room. Break until 3:05.
- 3:05–4:15 · Choice & connection. Choice & Agency and an optional exchange of skills, resources, and encouragement.
- 4:15–5:00 · What comes next. Your personal reflection card, feedback, and closing.
4:40–4:55 is reserved for the required Watson survey and separate, voluntary Reflections Collective pilot feedback.
Do I have to speak or share my story?
No. You can write privately, observe, or join in. Seated alternatives are available, and you can pass on activities or take a break. We’ll ask everyone to respect privacy and avoid unsolicited advice.
What are the date, venue, and cost?
The gathering is planned for 12–5 pm Eastern Time. The date is Saturday, November 21, 2026. Venue and cost details are still being finalized. Join the interest list below to hear when registration details are ready.
For community partners
This Basecamp is hosted by Reflections Collective in collaboration with Women’s Rights Information Center, under the sponsorship of Watson Institute.
We welcome conversations about future programming, resources, and community connection. Voluntary Reflections Collective pilot feedback will help shape future gatherings.
Hosted by
In collaboration with
Sponsored by
Reclaiming Your Story · Voice, Choice & What Comes Next
What if your next chapter
begins with a question?
Leave your name and email. I’ll send you a little welcome, then share the venue and registration details when they’re ready.
Save the date · November 21, 2026
Google Calendar ↗Apple Calendar / Outlook (.ics) ↗Adding this to your calendar does not reserve a place. Venue TBD.By signing up, you agree to receive a welcome email and updates about this Basecamp from Chen at Reflections Collective. This is an interest list, not a reserved place. Reply to any email to stop updates.