Mandie Peirson
If some of the people you know were a pukapuka – or an open book – think what interesting stories or insights they might share!
A unique online event based on this very idea was held at Unitec in mid-September with great success. Hosted by the Unitec Book Club, the event was loosely based on the Human Library – a Danish not-for-profit that works to create a safe framework for personal conversations. It’s a place where real people are books available for loan by readers and authentic or confronting, conversations are welcomed.
With borders closed for travel right now, the Unitec Book Club hosted ‘Around the World in Lockdown’ – bringing the experiences of the world to our virtual Unitec home. Each ‘reader’ was randomly paired with a speaking ‘book’, creating opportunities to hear colleague’s stories, one-to one. The aim was not to replicate the Human Library but just to encourage meaningful connection and conversations between Unitec whānau.
“We really appreciate the pukapuka folk who generously shared their time and stories”, says Lisa Simperingham, who attended the event.
One book, Mandie Pierson shared some of her career journey story with reader Elizabeth Morris, who said she really connected with the incredible story. Mandie said she felt honoured to be a part of the event. Guillermo Ramirez-Prado was also humbled to be considered as a book and is now keen to be reader at the next event, for the amazing opportunity of meeting others at Unitec. Rosario Iguin and Tasneem Rajkotwala agreed it was a great interactive experience and one they’d like to repeat.
The next event will be on October 14th, from 3.30-4pm. Email Sana Saleem or Kristie Venegas for more, or to book your place!
These events are brought to you by the Sustainability and Wellbeing team.
This was a great event, I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it.
Thanks for the feedback Katy! I think the event has a really interesting format.