Ecsite, the European Network of Science centres and museums, is delighted to be leading, together with host institution Heureka, Finland, the first ever International Directors Forum on science engagement from 14 to 17 November 2023. The initiative has been created together with Ecsite’s sister science engagement networks of Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology Centres (ASPAC), Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC), North Africa and Middle East science centres (NAMES), Network for the Popularization of Science and Technology in Latin America and The Caribbean (RedPOP) and Southern African Association of Science and Technology Centres (SAASTEC), whose members will also be in attendance.
The International Directors Forum will bring together global leaders in science engagement, CEOs and Managing Directors of science museums and centres, to foster collaboration and exchange ideas. Coming from 99 different organisations in 40 countries we take pride in the extensive reach of 300 million this global audience has, to amplify the impact of our collective efforts in tackling the planetary emergency and misinformation.
Science engagement and democracy is crucial for informed decision-making, fostering public trust, and advancing societal progress in an increasingly complex world. Involving citizens in these major challenges is essential.
The Programme
The programme comprises speeches and workshops bringing diverse perspectives to the core forum topics of the planetary emergency and misinformation, to stimulate thought and inspire creativity.
The Contributors
Dr. Brigitte Baptiste, biologist and expert ecologist on biodiversity and environmental issues in her native Colombia
Siim Kumpas, policy officer playing a central role in spreading awareness of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) in Europe
Dr. Paula Kahumbu, wildlife conservationist and CEO of WildLifeDirect, the largest nonprofit wildlife blogging site in Africa
Márton Gergely, editor-in-chief at Hungary’s highest-circulation weekly newspaper, one of the last independent editorial offices in the country
Markku Wilenius, professor of Future Studies at Turku University in Finland
Dr. Maria Mäkelä, professor of literature at Tampere University and whose expertise lies in storytelling and narrative
Risto Isomäki, activist and writer of 44 books that range from science fiction to non-fiction
Orna Ben Lulu, founder and editor-in-chief of RARE Media offering diverse and inclusive journalism aimed at young people
Enni Similä (Uhca-Paadar Risten Jarkko Enni), is a young Sámi activist who works in the Saami Council
Viktor Jaakkola, climate activist working with Operaatio Arctic and aiming to inspire others that Climate Repair, techniques to stabilise the climate system, is possible
Tellervo Kalleinen and Oliver Kochta-Kalleinen, interdisciplinary artists combining film, performance, game design, experimental education, facilitation, social architecture and alternative economies to present imagined solutions for a better world through the medium of art
Tomi Pulkkinen, a songwriter, singer, performing artist and author – known as Finland’s first library troubadour
For any further information please contact us at info@ecsite.eu