Page 9 - BPW-UK - E-news - Edition 110 - March 2023_Neat

I was delighted when it was Imagine my disappoint-
agreed that the 2023 AGM ment when I knew that,
and National Conference due to personal circum-
would be hosted by BPW stances, I would not be
Northern Ireland. I have en- able to attend in person.
joyed numerous visits to My disappointment turned
Belfast for action weekends, to joy when it was agreed
AGMs and to the conference that the 2023 Conference
in 2010 and knew that this would be a hybrid event
year would be a great event and that I would be able
with a warm welcome and to participate virtually.
excellent programme.

There is always an air of apprehension when conducting anything using
technology. But the use of Zoom for the Friday morning AGM and YouTube for
the full Conference Day on the Saturday proved to be highly successful, espe-
cially when moving to different venues for different sessions.

The AGM went smoothly and without technical hitches and as the minute
taker I was able to take comprehensive notes. It was good to see and hear de-
bate around the two motions which had been put forward, something we haven’t
had for some time. There was such a buzz in the room.

The Saturday was quite an experience for all as we took full advantage of
YouTube. We enjoyed quite an array of excellent speakers and with a skilled
technician in the room I enjoyed being able to see and hear everything. During
the breaks when the camera was on the room, I really enjoyed trying to spot
who was there, members who I had not seen for quite some time, chatting away
with each other. It felt that I too was in the room.

Congratulations to the BPW Northern Ireland team and the Conference Task
Force for a great AGM and National Conference.

Ann Wiseall
Vice President Membership
Virtual attendee