Imagine Cafés
What if we took the time to imagine futures we would truly love to live in? Fairer, healthier, more joyful futures that respect the living world.
We are living through a time of profound change. Ecological, social, economic and democratic crises are inviting us to rethink the way we live, work and organise our societies. What if one of our greatest crises were also a cultural one? Our beliefs, habits and perceptions of the world shape the boundaries of what we think is possible.
With the Cafés de l’imaginaire, we want to push those boundaries. We want to rediscover the joy of imagining, give ourselves permission to explore slightly crazy ideas and ask questions that open up new perspectives. Because our ability to imagine different futures also shapes our ability to create them.
A time to explore the impossible
The Cafés de l’imaginaire are monthly gatherings in small groups, over coffee, in the Schwarz&Co lounge in Cully. Each gathering will be an opportunity to explore a question, share ideas, play with our imaginations and let ourselves be surprised by other people’s perspectives.
We want to leave plenty of room for the unexpected. An inspiring conversation, an unexpected idea, a new connection, a collective project: anything can emerge. We want to enjoy exploring together, looking at the world differently and perhaps bringing back a little sparkle from the future.
We know where and when we're meeting. As for the rest, we'll see where our imagination takes us.
Who are these gatherings for?
Anyone who wants to imagine that things could be different. We would love to bring together people from all walks of life and all generations, with different experiences, cultures, sensitivities and ways of seeing the world.
Whether you’re an artist, a scientist, an entrepreneur, a farmer, a student, retired or figuring out the next chapter of your life, we’re interested in your perspective. The more diversity we have around the table, the richer our explorations will be.
There’s just one requirement: a desire to exercise your imagination, open yourself up to different perspectives and explore futures worth looking forward to.
Explorer's glasses and a treasure box
Before setting off on our adventures, you’ll need your explorer’s glasses. They’re very important! (If you really need a pair, we’ll have some for you.)
Over the course of our gatherings, we’ll also be putting together a treasure box of the imagination. You can contribute by bringing an image, an object, a magazine, a quote or something that intrigues you, inspires you or makes you dream. A collection of little curiosities we can draw on to fuel our explorations.
The practical details
When? The first Thursday of every month, from 9:00 to 10:30 am, with a few exceptions.
Where? In the Schwarz&Co lounge in Cully.
How many? Six people maximum, to encourage conversation and give everyone a chance to be heard.
Contribution: CHF 10.-. To cover coffee, coloured pencils and a little glitter. Because even imagination needs supplies sometimes.
An important bonus: on Thursday mornings, there’s a market on the Place du Temple, right across from our office. Why not pick up your weekly vegetables before joining us? We like to keep our feet on the ground, even when we’re exploring the future.
Dates and registration
- Thursday 3 December 2026
- Thursday 14 January 2027 (yes, it’s the second Thursday of the month, but hey!)
- Thursday 4 February 2027
- Thursday 4 March 2027
- Thursday 1 April 2027
- Thursday 13 May 2027
- Thursday 3 June 2027
To register, send us an email with your preferred date, your name and your contact details!