Moderating the EIT Alumni CONNECT event for Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Nierika Hamaekers
- 1 mei 2023
- 3 minuten om te lezen
Bijgewerkt op: 6 apr
I had the opportunity to co-moderate the EIT Alumni CONNECT event focused on Sustainable Development Goal 11 "Sustainable Cities and Communities." Over 150 alumni from the EIT's Innovation Communities came together in Budapest to discuss how they could contribute to making cities more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. As moderators, my colleague and I facilitated the flow of the event, from introducing the topic to energizing the room and encouraging networking.
Service: Facilitator & Moderator ā¢ Community Events
Client: European Institute of Technology (EIT)
Participant profile: Members of the different Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) from EIT
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Group size: 150 participants
Duration: 8 hours
My challenge:
Facilitating a smooth and engaging event flow; keep the conversation engaging and productive throughout the day, ensuring that all participants felt heard and that the event achieved its objectives.
The value I added:
Coordinated the introduction of the topic and invited keynote speakers and alumni on stage
Energized the room and encouraged optimal networking
Ensured the workshops were dynamic and covered a variety of topics.
Outcomes:
Inspiring and engaging event for over 150 alumni
Encouraged multidisciplinary co-creation projects for a better future
Highlighted the diversity of disciplines within the EIT Alumni network.
Facilitator & Moderator - How this service can translate into practice:
Go beyond just bringing people together. Create safe and inspiring spaces for meaningful connections to flourish, encouraging participants to delve deep and form lasting bonds. Experience the power of community building, and unlock new possibilities. Some methodologies I use areā¦
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Next to Community Events ,
I also Facilitate & Moderate Team Days ;
apply Learning Design to create Toolboxes & Bootcamps , and am
an Impact Coach for 21st Century Skill Building & Strategic Innovation.
Testimonial
"Tobias and Nierika were an excellent team of moderators for our EIT Alumni CONNECT event. Their professionalism, energy and ability to engage with the audience made the day truly inspiring. Thanks to their moderation, we were able to create an atmosphere that allowed for networking and co-creation that will undoubtedly lead to a more connected community of change-makers."
ā Event organizer
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About the European Institute of Technology (EIT) and their Alumni community
The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) was established by the European Union in 2008 to enhance Europe's ability to innovate. The EIT runs a variety of Innovation Communities, which bring together leading businesses, research institutes, and universities to tackle some of society's most pressing challenges. Each Innovation Community focuses on a specific area of innovation, such as climate change, digitalization, or health.
The EIT Alumni community comprises graduates from these Innovation Communities, who share a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. The community is diverse, consisting of individuals from different disciplines, cultures, and backgrounds. It offers a valuable platform for alumni to connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that have the potential to make a real impact.
Why are Alumni communities, and (online) Alumni events so important?
Alumni communities play an essential role in fostering lifelong connections between alumni and their institutions. They provide a platform for alumni to stay connected, network, and support each other throughout their careers. Online alumni events have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and accessibility. They enable alumni to participate in events from anywhere in the world, expanding the opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Alumni communities and events also offer valuable benefits for the institutions themselves. They help maintain a strong relationship with alumni and support the institution's brand reputation. Moreover, alumni events are an effective way to showcase the institution's latest research, innovation, and initiatives.
5 Tips for moderating large groups
Moderating large groups can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Here are five tips for moderating large groups:
Prepare thoroughly: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the event's purpose, agenda, and target audience. Familiarize yourself with the speakers and their topics to facilitate a smooth flow of discussion. I recommend you this reading for optimal prep!
Engage the audience: Encourage active participation from the audience through interactive activities such as polls, Q&A sessions, and group discussions. This helps to maintain their attention and keeps them engaged throughout the event.
Manage time effectively: Stick to the agenda and ensure that speakers adhere to their allotted time slots. Use a timer to ensure that sessions do not overrun.
Foster a positive atmosphere: Create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. Be respectful and ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute.
Be flexible: Be prepared to adapt the event's agenda if necessary. Unexpected challenges can arise, and it is essential to remain flexible and adaptable to ensure the event runs smoothly.
