Offering a congress with both onsite and virtual attendees was challenging, but very worthwhile. We are SO thankful for the technical skill, knowledge ad patience of Haryanti Jones (Subud LA Center). She made it all possible by managing the Zoom events throughout the Congress, with help from Henry Couden.
Haryanti is also an entrepreneur who provided custom made Subud symbol cookies to be auctioned off for fundraising (pictured at left).
Microphones and speakers were used to help all participants hear as well as see events. Zoom access ensured that all members of the Regional Council could participate in the meeting held on Friday, as well as observers. On Saturday, virtual Congress attendees were able to view the AGM and entertainment on their devices. On Monday, separate onsite and virtual sharing circles provided a forum for all to comment.
It was sometime challenging to keep things in synch for virtual attendees, especially when events started later than scheduled. We learned that having a virtual event “coordinator”, who could maintain contact with those not present in person throughout, would be helpful for future hybrid events. The Congress team hopes to continue refining the hybrid congress model in future.