The in-person ‘unconference’ had to take a break last year because of COVID (it went virtual instead) but this year it’s returning with both an in-person event in Cong and a hybrid element (which we predict will become the norm for a lot of industry events). This year CongRegation is focusing on leadership.
About the event this year:
CongRegation (www.congregation.ie) #cong21 the annual mind mesh unconference returns on November 27th as a virtual event with ‘Leadership’ as its theme.
Celebrating its 9th year the online format still features an earned entry via a submission, which are discussed in small moderated huddles. Attracting attendees from all over Ireland and overseas the event will cover a wide range of perspectives and angles on the theme of ‘Leadership’.
In order to earn a ticket each attendee submits a 600 word article covering their own unique perspectives and experiences which is published on the website. These submissions form the basis of the presentations on November 27th. Each huddle is chaired and attendees are given 10-15 minutes to present followed by a group discussion. The huddles rotate 4 times giving all attendees the opportunity to present and meet as many of the other attendees as possible, in a peer to peer environment.
Due to covid concerns the event has switched from its home in Cong, Co Mayo although some attendees will still be logging in from their favourite venue or at the specially organised socially distanced Crossroads centre.
“The submissions are really only a catalyst for discussion” commented organised Eoin Kennedy. Adding he said “The real magic happens when people add their own perspective and tease out new ideas. As everyone has had to earn their entry they not only come prepared but experience a true peer to peer environment. In addition to generating new ideas the intimate structure forms strong bonds between attendees with many collaborating beyond the event. Despite zoom fatigue after a year of lockdown, last year the online format attracted 80 attendees with the event lasting over 12 hours”.
Following the 4 one hour huddles the day finishes with the ever popular poetry open mic, featuring new and favourite poems moderated by Paul O’Mahony. Some additional socially distanced social events will be organised for the attendees who log in from Cong.
All the submissions to date can be viewed on the website. Submissions will be accepted up to Thursday November 25th via the online form https://congregation.ie/submit-entry/
Blacknight is proud to be a sponsor of this event and we hope that everyone is able to have a productive ‘unconference’ this year! Get your submissions in and good luck!
About the Author: Jonathan Thomas
