Special Interest Group on Africa – Events
Do you have an idea for an event? Tell us about it.
You can submit an idea for an event in two ways
1. Submit an event that YOU will organise and/or present
2. Submit an event idea that you would like someone else to present
Complete this form here (in English) or here (in French)
There are two kinds of online events for SIG Africa which any member or associate can organise.
Conversation Events
Presentation Events
Conversation Events
What are Conversation Events?
Conversation Events are an opportunity for members and associates of the SIG to meet to have a conversation around a particular topic. The topic will be designed by the organiser.
How do Conversation Events happen?
Any member can organise to hold a Conversation Event – all you need is a topic. See full process below.
Who will run the Conversation Event?
Each event will be led by a member or associate, the “organiser”, who will outline the topic and then open the conversation to all attendees.
What is the format of a Conversation Event?
While the format can be varied as needed, in general it will include the following three stages
- Introduction by the organiser: approx. 10 minutes
- Conversation among the participants: approx. 30-40 minutes
- Next steps – if any: approx. 10 minutes
This is assuming a 60-minute event but the organiser can have a longer or shorter event as needed.
What is the Purpose or planned outcome?
The outcomes from the Conversation Event can be any of the following
- No further action
- Plans to continue the conversation within the group of attendees and other interested people
- Establishment of a formal team within the SIG to continue to work on the topic. This could include looking for contacts with external organisations, looking for research opportunities or publishing ideas
The attendees should be clear at the end of the event what are the next steps for the group.
Would you like to run a Conversation Event?
Simply Complete the online form and the Events Manager will be in touch
Form (in English) or (in French)
Presentation Events
This is more of a lecture format with Questions and Answers at the end. Usually given by an expert on a particular topic. Format usually as follows:
Formal presentation of 40 to 45 minutes with 10-15 minutes for Q&A.
This is assuming a 60-minute event but the organiser can have a longer or shorter event as needed. 90-minute sessions where the last 30 minutes is “optional” for further discussion work well.
Suitable for sharing of knowledge or expertise on a topic. For example a talk about the history of Gambia and cultural complexities
What is the Purpose or planned outcome?
The outcomes from the Presentation Event can be any of the following
- No further action
- Plans to continue the conversation within the group of attendees and other interested people
- Establishment of a formal team within the SIG to continue to work on the topic. This could include looking for contacts with external organisations, looking for research opportunities or publishing ideas
The attendees should be clear at the end of the event what are the next steps for the group.
Would you like to run a Presentation Event?
Simply Complete the online form and the Events Manager will be in touch
Form (in English) or (in French)