Curiosity is not something we give children... it is innate. It is something we either protect or interrupt.
Speaking at #SCANZ26 as the Excellence in Science Communication Award winner was a huge honour. I thought long and hard about how to best present my work in a short 12min talk... but I knew that I wanted my kōrero to be more meaningful than simply showcasing The Seed Pod mahi (available free online www.theseedpod.co.nz). I wanted my kōrero to resonate with the diversity of science communicators in the room. I wanted it to encourage reflection and to move people... and I am proud to say that sitting in the vulnerability of my own personal story brought that vision to life. The kōrero that followed my speech moved me, just as my speech had moved them. I was brought into moments of reflection of parenthood, curiosity, care, sadness, frustration, desire and hope. It was busy... but I am proud to have stayed true to my values of taking the time to slow down and connect deeply with anyone I was lucky enough to kōrero with.
I deeply value these spaces and connections. I have walked away inspired by a breadth of science communication work, and hopeful that I can collaborate with many of those in the room (and outside of it too) in the future.
More memorable moments/thoughts:
Looking at Antarctica as a gold-standard (imo) science communication project and how technological advancements have enabled our connection to the rarely experienced continent.
Seeing how many challenges have been solved through creative science communication practices.
Kindness in leadership is not shying away from the challenge, it is seeing the potential for strengthening together through change. Kindness isn't niceness.
Hearing strong themes around the importance of design and photography in uplifting sci-comms... but also sitting in the space thinking about how often people expect this for free. How do we change this, and fund more science communication contracts... and/or empowers others with the skills too?
Open-mic night. Sharing our vulnerabilities in the safety of this community.
Seeing my design work being presented on screen and witnessing the audience engagement first-hand (lots of photos- yay).
Phil for many reasons was an absolute vibe!
Meeting so many incredible science communicators from diverse fields, experiences, and backgrounds.
Bouldering each day between conference events with a phenomenal crew of science communicators. Feeling re-energised by the social connection and physical movement.
I could go on forever... basically SCANZ26 was one of the best conferences I have ever been involved in. I will be on this high for a long time I'm sure. So let's make sure we stay connected in this space.
Theseedpod@outlook.com
