2-Minute Presentations: The fun, rebellious way to form genuine connections while learning something unique

In community work, forging authentic connections is pivotal. These connections often lay the groundwork for collaboration and engagement among members. The only issue is that in this virtual world we live in, icebreakers have become redundant and incredibly boring - Zoom fatigue is a lingering and everlasting effect from the good ol’ Covid quarantine days. However, amidst the fatigue, there's a refreshing and rebellious alternative that can breathe life into our community interactions: The 2-Minute Presentation.

Since we held the Community Rebellion Conference a few months ago, we’ve been trying to live and work rebelliously, to break the status quo and think differently. That's why we've decided to embark on the 2-Minute Presentation initiative, a series of ten 10-minute get-togethers.

What is the 2-Minute Presentation?

It’s simple. There is a speaker who begins by speaking about a topic of their choice for 2 minutes. The format allows each speaker to delve into any topic they desire, transcending the boundaries of professional life. Whether it's a how-to guide, a historical insight, a hobby they cherish, or an analysis of Taylor Swift songs' evolution, speakers have the freedom to unleash their creativity and share what truly matters to them. The next 5 minutes is a Q&A round, where attendees can ask questions to the speaker, or just general chit chat or sharing of stories about the topic.

If you’re doing the math, that’s 7 minutes. The remaining 3 minutes are a buffer for introductions, meeting openings, and in case the presentation runs a little long. That’s right, the whole meeting takes place in 10 minutes or less.

Why are we doing this?

The 2-minute presentation may seem simple, but its impact is profound. It goes beyond the usual superficial introductions and encourages participants to share their passions, interests, and expertise. It allows people to get to know one another on a different level than just a generic introduction or work-related chit chat, and it can foster deeper connections if people have shared mutual interests. Additionally, it gives the speaker a chance to practice their public speaking skills and get to talk about something they are excited or passionate about.

We also love that it’s not a 30-minute or hour long meeting.

Who’s involved and when is this happening?

We have an amazing lineup of people who are excited to talk about their “anything under the sun” topics!

• August 8 - Joel Primack, RSVP Here
• August 16 - Talia Basma, RSVP Here
• August 22 - Nicola Ruth Earle, RSVP Here
• August 29 - Max Pete , RSVP Here
• September 6 - Vanessa Marquez, RSVP Here
• September 12 - Solée (Fišarová Meidus) ‘FM’, RSVP Here
• September 21 - Karolína Krámková, RSVP Here
• September 26 - Ed Giansante, RSVP Here
• October 2 - Lori Goldman, RSVP Here
• October 10 - Safiya Mohamed, RSVP Here
• October 17 - Lia Mladenova, RSVP Here
• October 24 - Valentina Ruffoni, RSVP Here
• October 31 - Jenny Weigle, RSVP Here
• November 7 - Ruthie Berber, RSVP Here
• November 14 - Anjali Mahadevia, RSVP Here

Why you should attend

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of remote work and community engagement, the 2-Minute Presentation emerges as a beacon of hope—a way to transcend the fatigue of online icebreakers and establish meaningful connections. Let's embrace the power of sharing, learning, and growing together, and witness the transformative effects it can have on our communities. Also, I’m SO curious what everyone’s topics of discussion will be. Aren’t you? 🙂

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