Why choose a Thematic Gathering for exploring topics of interest?
Do you have a passion for a theme you would like to explore with other Fellows? Imagine how much more powerful the conversation might be if you share it with the broader Atlantic community at a Thematic Gathering - possibly in an immersive setting that is relevant to the topic you are exploring!
In October 2019, 18 Global Atlantic Fellows from different programs and program staff traveled to Jordan to learn about the effects of displacement on health. Their Thematic Gathering provided stimulating place-based content co-designed by a group of Fellows, who were able to see for themselves the effects of displacement. They visited Za’atari Refugee Camp, then home to 80,000 refugees including those who had fled during the Syrian conflict; and they met Syrian and Jordanian people to gather different perspectives. It was a valuable experience that spurred them as a group to collaborate further on how they might shift the narrative on displacement. Those Fellows have continued to develop the project, combining academic research, art and thought leadership pieces to change the narrative on displacement. Watch the film.
Suppose you are a Fellow in a cross-program group, and interested in opening up the exploration of your topic with the wider Atlantic community. How could a Thematic Gathering further your group's aims? First, you can rely on the support of the Atlantic Institute team. Successful applicants for a Thematic Gathering will work with a dedicated Program and Impact Lead who has experience in convening design to work alongside the group. The Institute will also offer a coordinator to give you the necessary logistical support, and arrange the flights, accommodation, and catering. Secondly, it can give you a much broader conversation and set of experiences that can catalyze thinking and action for impact.
One of the main differences between Thematic Gatherings and grant support from the Institute for connection and ideation is the number of Fellows who can come to a Thematic Gathering. In-person Thematic Gatherings can host a far larger number of Fellows and participants (up to three Fellows per Program - i.e 21 Fellows in total). Whereas grant-holders meetings around an issue for equity will have fewer people and are less likely to offer a structured program co-designed with support from the Institute.
Thematic Gatherings can be virtual as well as face-to-face gatherings. The Institute can assist Fellows with the logistics, providing technical support and bringing on board external speakers or facilitators where needed.
If you want to find out more, please contact Shanjitha.
Otherwise, what are you waiting for? Get your application in by filling in this form.