industry insights

UNDEF & NDF SET SIGHTS ON DEMOCRACY BEYOND ELECTIONS

UNDEF & NDF SET SIGHTS ON DEMOCRACY BEYOND ELECTIONS

The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) has appointed the newDemocracy Foundation to undertake a pioneer project centred around doing democracy differently.  It’s an announcement that has us excited.  Today we’re shining a spotlight on this project, which has potential to inspire democratic change and the adaption of deliberative engagement principles across the globe.

newDemocracy’s Executive Director Iain Walker provided us with some insights into what we can expect from what is shaping up to be an innovative and impactful project.

#MONTHLYMYTH: EMCEES & FACILITATORS

#MONTHLYMYTH: EMCEES & FACILITATORS

Sometimes, as facilitators, we find ourselves in awe of a skilled Master of Ceremonies (emcee).  Some emcees can really bring an event to life, confidently engaging the audience and seamlessly pull an occasion together with effortless flow and poise.  Where appropriate, the best MC’s will also inject humour and entertainment and make an event ‘sparkle’.

The reason we’re so impressed is that this isn’t our core skill set! Contrary to popular belief, these two roles aren't interchangeable.  To address this month's myth, we interviewed a professional emcee and professional facilitator, gaining first hand insights into these two unique worlds. 

LGA REVIEW: IMPLICATIONS FOR COUNCIL ENGAGEMENT

LGA REVIEW: IMPLICATIONS FOR COUNCIL ENGAGEMENT

A new Local Government Act is on the way in Victoria, with submissions on the the Exposure Draft of the Local Government Bill to close this Friday.    The draft signals some changes to expectations around community engagement - a shift that is set to impact how councils engage in a number of ways.

In this post, we're summarising the key changes proposed in relation to engagement and highlighting what this might mean for councils and how they engage in the future.

6 Industry Interviews: The year that was and what might be

6 Industry Interviews: The year that was and what might be

As 2017 draws to a close, we've rounded up some interesting people who work in the world of public participation, community engagement and deliberative democracy.   Our interviewees, who hail from as far as the UK and New Zealand, have shared their reflections on the year that was 2017, and their hopes and predictions for what might be in 2018. 

From a researcher to facilitator and digital engagement expert to local government employee - these interviews offer a diverse collection of perspectives and ideas.  

Thank you to the six individuals who have taken the time to share their candid, insightful and inspiring thoughts.  Here's to a 2018 that shines bright for the engagement and deliberative democracy space.