ESEAP Conference 2024/Report/Exec8

This report was submitted by Butch Bustria, a Filipino Wikimedian based in Singapore. He served as head of the 2024 Conference Communications Committee and member of the 2024 ESEAP Conference Core Organizing Team. He is also an active participant in the conference.

Things I learned at the conference

Based on the information available, here are some key learnings from the 2024 Wikimedia ESEAP conference:

1. Collaboration Beyond the Horizon. The theme of the conference reflected and emphasized the importance of collaboration across the ESEAP region.
2. Community Growth. There was a focus on how the Wikimedia community has grown since the first meeting in 2018 and the ongoing efforts to establish a well-managed hub.
3. Enhancing Infrastructure. The conference addressed the need to enhance not only online infrastructure but also a robust volunteer base and an inclusive culture that advocates for open and free knowledge
4. Educational Outreach. This conference included discussions on how to train or help stakeholders across the region about Wikimedia and the importance of advocating open and free knowledge.
5. Greater reach. The conference aimed to connect people within the Wikimedia movement in the ESEAP region to share ideas and build regional collaborations.

Things I contributed or participated in or since the conference

Reflecting on my involvement since the 2024 Wikimedia ESEAP conference, here are some potential contributions and participations I might have engaged in:

1. Hosting a session. I have facilitated three sessions:
   1. Seeding an ecosystem of partners - funding and beyond
   2. Regional Grants Committee (ESEAP Region)
   3. Crowdmapping is more fun with OpenStreetMap!
2. Networking. Engaging with other Wikimedia enthusiasts from various countries within the ESEAP region, fostering connections and collaborations.
3. Program Management. Assisting in the management and coordination of conference programs, ensuring a smooth and productive experience for all attendees.
4. Content Creation. Creating and sharing content related to the conference, such as blog posts, social media updates, or documentation of the event, being part of the Communications Committee.

Plans after the conference (from what I learned or contributed in the conference)

After the 2024 Wikimedia ESEAP conference, my plans could be shaped by the insights and experiences I gained during the event. Here's a potential roadmap based on what I've learned and contributed:

1. Enhancing Wiki Visibility. Implement strategies to improve visibility of useful content for Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons, Wikipedia.
2. Community Initiatives. Launch community growth initiatives that build on the collaborative spirit fostered at the conference, aiming to create a more robust and interconnected Wikimedia community in the ESEAP region.
3. Content Development. Work on creating high-quality content for Wikimedia platforms, inspired by the workshops and content creation sessions I participated in during the conference.
4. Regional Partnerships. Pursue partnerships and collaborations with regional organizations, Wikimedia affiliates and active contributions to further the goals discussed in the strategy development sessions.
5. Event Management. Utilize my experience in program and event management to organize future Wikimedia events that echo the success of the ESEAP conference.

These plans aim to capitalize on the momentum generated by the conference, ensuring that the knowledge shared and the connections made continue to benefit the Wikimedia community and its mission.

Comments/ suggestions about the conference

Reflecting on the 2024 Wikimedia ESEAP conference, my comments and suggestions might include:

1. Positive Aspects.
   1. The theme Collaboration Beyond the Horizon was well-chosen, reflecting the expansive and inclusive nature of the Wikimedia movement in the region.
   2. The conference successfully brought together participants from various ESEAP communities and locations, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
2. Areas for Improvement
   1. Future conferences could benefit from more diverse representation across all Wikimedia projects to ensure a holistic view of the movement's challenges and opportunities.
   2. Providing summaries or briefs on complex topics like charters and governance in advance could help attendees prepare better and engage more productively in discussions.
3. Suggestions. Encourage more interactive sessions like workshops and roundtables to facilitate hands-on learning and active participation.

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