Toolkit
The Organization of Festivals and Un-democratic Tendencies
By: Mette Li van Zoest, Professional mentor: Fabiola Eidloth, Academic mentor: Dr. Quirijn van den Hoogen
Developed during a Master’s Traineeship in Cultural Leadership, University of Groningen
Media
Atelier New York - 7 January 2024
Opening Keynote Conversation: "The Power of Festivals in Shifting Harmful Narratives and the Art of Gathering at times of conflict and a need for safeguarding human rights"
Speakers: Kumi Naidoo (South Africa), Kee Hong Low (Hong Kong/UK), Juan Pablo Lopez (Colombia), Meera Dugal (United States) and Thimali Kodikara (United States)
Facilitator: Yazmany Arboleda (Colombia/United States)
Land Acknowledgment and Opening Ritual: Dennis Redmoon Darkeem (United States
Atelier Elefsina 2023 - 22 June 2023
Panel Discussion: "Festivals in an age of polarisation, conflict and existential threat"
Speakers: Thobile Maphanga (South Africa), Horacio Pérez (Chile) and Nima Deghani (USA/Iran)
Facilitator: Mike van Graaf (South Africa)
Atelier For Young Festival Managers Nicosia - 8 October 2022
Panel Discussion: Definitions of Peace: What is a 'successful festival' in contexts of conflict?
Speakers: Brett Pyper (South Africa), Atje Drexler (Germany), Mira El Mawla (Lebanon), Lea Perekres (Belgium), Mwandwe Chileshe (Zambia)
