The 1828 Project, sponsored by Citizens Energy Group, is a civic leadership tract for Indy’s young leaders with the goal of fostering intentional relationships with a cross sector of Indianapolis’ thought leaders and decision makers. Steven is a part of 1828’s Class IX– learn more about him below!
How do you spend your days?
I’m curator, event producer & founder of Lari Pati. A creative agency that produces live music experiences to make Indianapolis an unexpected destination for creatives within & beyond the Crossroads of America. Most days I’m figuring out how we can move the needle creatively for our lovely city & the opportunities that need to be created for creatives in our community to make the most of & ascend.
Where are your originally from?
Washington, DC.
What made you choose Indy?
My folks moved my siblings & I here to be closer to family. Looking back that was the best decision because I wouldn’t have as open of a mind as I do having lived here for the last 12 or so years. To most, it should be the other way around.
You’re off the clock. What are your favorite things to do when not at work?
Going out to different events from ball games, concerts, art shows to parties. I love people & the things that bring us all together despite our backgrounds. Great events do just that.
When thinking about the future of Indianapolis, what are you looking forward to the most and why?
In the short term, NBA All Star Weekend in 2021. It’s in Indianapolis as we all know but I grew up going to them almost every year till I was an adult. To see what the powers that be have cooked up is exciting. I want to help them welcome the world to our beautiful city. Long term, the evolution of our creative community & it becoming a respected industry. The draw from that development will be beyond comprehension.
Are there any local causes that you support?
Indy Music Strategy & Fountain Square Art & Music Alliance.
Do you have a favorite local spot that you love going to? Where and why?
I love Petra Cafe. One of, if not the only place you can get food after 3am. Future restaurants in our city should take notes.
Which is your preferred way to get around our city?
Lime scooter. If the weather here wasn’t so darn unpredictable I would sell my car today.
What’s something underrated about Indy that more people should know about?
Creatives. We have some genius level talent in Indianapolis. I believe as a community we’re misunderstood because our field is not the traditional route most take to make a living.
What’s a book that has impacted your life most to date?
Freedom of Known by Jiddu Krishnamurti. It opened my mind & heart to what is instead of what should be.
If you had to remove all the apps from your phone except for 3, which would you keep?
Twitter, Youtube & Shazam.
Is there something incredibly common that you have never done before?
I’ve never had coffee before. Was scared straight as a child when I heard it would stunt your growth. I was playing sports & anything hindering me from reach 6ft tall was a no-no.
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
For the Love of You by The Isley Brothers. The greatest song of all time.
Pancakes or waffles?
Both, in the same sitting.
