Dear Heritage Interpreters,
It is a pleasure to address you within the framework of I-PAL 2024. This year, our motto is "Connecting Knowledge and Forging Connections." This slogan reflects our strong belief in the importance of uniting diverse knowledge to enrich our practices and strengthen the bonds that tie us together.
"Connecting Knowledge and Forging Connections." What does it really mean?
Connecting Knowledge: This call urges us to bring together diverse knowledge. In I-PAL 2024, we aspire to promote the exchange of experiences and perspectives. Each of you contributes a unique vision, and by connecting this knowledge, we not only enrich our collective understanding of heritage but also weave a stronger network of knowledge that encompasses the cultural and natural richness of our region.
Forging Connections: Active collaboration is key. We are here to create strong and lasting ties. Forging connections not only means working together during this event but also building relationships that transcend geographic and disciplinary boundaries. These connections will strengthen our community and contribute significantly to the effective interpretation of heritage in our region, creating a stronger weave of engagement and appreciation.
Expected Benefits
1. More Comprehensive Experiences: By connecting knowledge, we enrich our understanding. This will not only improve our practices but also provide visitors with a broader range of interpretations and experiences, promoting a more integrated understanding.
The idea is that collaboration and knowledge sharing will enrich understanding and foster a deeper commitment to the mission of the cultural and natural heritage site.
2. Enhanced Networking: Expanding networking opportunities with specific sessions for exchanging contacts and experiences, ensuring that connections extend beyond the conferences.
3. More Accessible Platform: We have improved the I-PAL website—a virtual platform to facilitate interaction among participants, promoting the creation of thematic discussion groups, by language, and providing tools for resource sharing: The collaborative space. We anticipate its continual growth.
4. Mentorship Program: We have implemented an application and mentorship program connecting seasoned professionals with those starting in heritage interpretation, fostering continuous learning and professional development.
5. Collaborative Publications: We encourage the creation of collaborative publications among participants, consolidating knowledge and generating accessible online resources for the community.
"Connecting Knowledge and Forging Connections" urges us to look beyond our individual specialties and recognize the advantages that arises when diverse disciplines converge. It is about building bridges between different areas of knowledge.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, we invite everyone to participate actively, sharing experiences and perspectives that enrich our understanding of heritage. Collaboration is key to achieving a deeper and more comprehensive understanding, and together we can build bridges that transcend borders and enrich our communities.
I encourage each of you to contribute with your unique experience, fostering an environment of mutual learning. By connecting knowledge, we will forge strong connections that will endure far beyond this year of collaboration. We eagerly anticipate your valuable participation in I-PAL 2024!
Best regards,
Didier Bergame
Executive Director, I-PAL