• World Bank-Annenberg Summer Institute

    Join the World Bank-Annenberg Summer Institute to learn the latest advances in strategic communication and best practices for reform. This course will empower you to build coalitions for change, mobilize public support, and navigate the politics of an ever-changing world.

  • Third Space Youth Institute

    Summer 2025

    The Third Space Youth Institute empowers students to be the leaders the world needs by building essential skills for success. We prepare students for college and the workforce by introducing them to our ACE-IT framework for problem-solving. Students learn how to solve complex issues, make presentations, tell their own stories, and create a personal brand that will prepare them for their college and professional careers.

  • The Center for Third Space Thinking

    We put the hard edge on soft skills

    Our Mission: To empower youth to executives with the essential communication and problem solving skills required to thrive thoughtout the lifecycle of leadership.

  • Soft Skills Boot Camp

    An immersive experience to help you master the critical soft skills needed in today’s competitive workplace and take your career to the next level.

  • Annenberg Media Institute

    The USC Annenberg Center for Third Space Thinking welcomes students and teachers to a learning program of digital storytelling, video production, and soft skills development.

Third Space Thinking: ACE-IT

A communications-driven methodology to frame and solve complex problems. The ACE-IT framework helps unlock innovation, drive collaboration, develop talent and enhance organizational performance using five key competencies required for success in today’s ever-changing world.

Lifecycle of Leadership

We provide ACE-IT skill development to all three stages of the lifecycle.

High School

We are committed to sharing our knowledge with diverse and less fortunate communities who deserve soft skill training to solve complex problems and navigate life's challenges. 

College

We are equipping students with the essential soft skills and critical thinking required for success in today’s digitally disrupted world.

Leadership Development

We offer executive leadership training opportunities specifically designed for companies and their high-performers.

Impact

After completing our TSYI program,

  • 388% increase in students who are “completely” confident speaking in front of a group.

  • 61% increase in students who are “completely” confident they will complete the college applications.

  • 99% increase in students who are “completely” confident interviewing for jobs.

  • 90% increase in students who are “completely” confident they could effectively resolve a conflict with another person.

Are you a Third Space thinker?

Please take our validated Third Space Thinking Assessment to see your proficiency in the essential skills for leadership and problem solving:  Adaptability, Cultural Competency, Empathy, Intellectual Curiosity, and 360-Degree Thinking.