Last night and this morning participants from across Europe have been arriving in Budapest for the second meeting of the International Youth Work Trainers group. Following the first development week in Ireland some of the previous participants and lots of new ones are staying at the Fortuna Boat Hotel for three days to take the next steps in the creation of the network.
During the three days the group will be working on three objectives…
- Creating a network strategy including aims and objectives, a joint vision (with outputs for the next three years), organisational structure and culture, communications strategy and contributions/benefits for membership.
- Thinking about a consultation process so that the wider group of trainers who are not in the room can contribute to the development of the network.
- Setting some clear next steps for the network over the next 12 months.
Strolling the city
Last night after participants arrived a small group set out to explore the city for the first time. The group headed up the river and enjoyed a dinner of kebab or falafel. After eating the group walked (2,000 steps each) and got to know each other in conversation before heading back to the boat.
Today’s agenda
Today the group will be spending the morning getting to know each other, telling the story of the network so far and building a space with ground rules and trust. Following in the afternoon the group will set out on finalising the aims and objectives of the network, considering what things have worked well in other networks and how these things could be incorporated into the IYWT one.
Communicating inside to outside the room
Throughout the three days I’ll be sharing what the group has been doing through this blog and also on the Facebook groups which have been established. You can join the conversation by commenting on the blog here or posting in the Facebook group and I’ll share your thoughts with the group here in Budapest.