This is not another conference. This is an Unconference.
This is peer-to-peer learning at its best. It will be exciting, inspiring and meet the needs right now of public sector communicators.
- 04 Jul 2022
- 08:45 - 17:00
- Save to my Calendar
- Hamilton, New Zealand
About this event
This event is now SOLD OUT. If you would like to join the waitlist please email please contact Jenni Cochrane at Matamata-Piako District Council..
PLEASE NOTE: This event is supported by Taituarā, but has been organised by a team of council comms people.
The world is changing. People’s expectations of local government are changing, which means it also needs to change. The public service is full of hugely passionate people who will bring about that change – people like YOU! This is a forum to inspire and learn from each other, so we can drive that change.
'Talk It Up' is being organised by a small group of local government communications professionals, supported by Taituarā, LGNZ and ALGIM. The event will appeal to communications and community engagement practitioners, but organisers are encouraging everyone in the public sector with an interest in improving how government engages with communities to get involved.
What will happen at the Talk It Up unconference?
Unlike other conferences where there is a set agenda, there is no set programme for Talk It Up. Attendees will decide what is important together on the day by pitching topics they wish to discuss, then breaking out into sessions to explore these topics together.
Here are just a few ideas to get your brain buzzing:
- what are the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on how councils engage with their communities?
- how do we get engagement to drive policymaking (not the other way around)?
- how do you embed a culture of engagement within your organisation?
How to enrol
This promises to be an invaluable experience, but the unconference organisers have put a value of just $200 for a ticket.
Mark those dates in your calendar to ensure you don’t miss out on being part of this inspiring event!
Join your fellow changemakers on Monday 4th July 2022 in Hamilton to discuss challenges, share ideas, and inspire change.
Meanwhile, join Talk It Up on Facebook as momentum builds for the big day.
Presenters
Jenni Cochrane
Communications Manager Read ProfileJenni Cochrane
Communications ManagerMatamata-Piako DC Communications/Digital Manager Jenni Cochrane: I've been in local government for 15 years and find the current environment and pace of change fascinating and exciting. What gets me even more excited is the idea of getting together in a room with like-minded, enthusiastic people who care about genuinely connecting with our communities. Talk It Up 2022 was so energising – I can’t wait to do it again!
Sonia Gerken
GM Communications/Customer Support Read ProfileSonia Gerken
GM Communications/Customer SupportGore District Council General Manager Communications & Customer Support Sonia Gerken: I describe myself as ‘poacher turned gamekeeper’. I joined local government comms 10 years ago after more years than I will admit as a newspaper journalist specialising in holding southern councils to account. I have a passion for telling our stories, cutting through the bureaucratic jargon and making it as easy as possible for people to do business with us. Career highlights – surviving Innovative Streets and being part of the Talk It Up team!
Maria De Cort
Communications Coordinator, Central Otago District Council Read ProfileMaria De Cort
Communications Coordinator, Central Otago District CouncilCentral Otago District Council Communications Coordinator Maria De Cort: I’ve been working in local government communications for 11 years. Career highlight have been getting Council’s CEO in an orange skin suit and our Mayor in a super Turd costume to front campaign videos, and, without a doubt, being part of the crew to organise last year’s first Talk it Up unconference!
Anna McLoughlin
Freelance Communications and Engagement Advisor Read ProfileAnna McLoughlin
Freelance Communications and Engagement AdvisorFreelance Communications and Engagement Advisor Anna McLoughlin: I’ve been working in communications for the last nine years, I am passionate about communication and the rapid pace of change, which as we all know, keeps everyone on their toes! I love coming up with out of the box strategies to connect organisations with their community, and increase engagement through not only digital media but also through face-to-face interaction and building meaningful relationships. I'm really looking forward to the innovation we can create at Talk It Up 2023!