I can move the earth…
The Vibha Volunteer conference moved me, motivated me, impressed me
It engaged, inspired and consumed me
It enabled, empowered and encouraged me
It energized, drove and compelled me
To believe that I am Vibha, and Vibha begins with me…
This was my first experience attending the annual Vibha volunteer conference, which was hosted by the Bay Area action center this year. Having no previous experience at this, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Let me just put it this way, I was blown away! It was a phenomenal show of teamwork, organization, planning and execution.
Hats off to the entire team that put the outstanding event together. Not only was it impressive in its format, content and structure, it set the expectation bar very high. Having been a part of Vibha’s volunteer force for close to 3 years now, it is the organization’s professionalism, volunteer dedication and passion that drew me to it. Attending the conference was like witnessing ball after ball being hit out of the ball park with all 4 bases loaded.
The relevancy of topics, balanced themes and discussions, effective power points, brainstorming, breakouts and workshops…were all so well organized and conducted, I felt like I was attending a large scale corporate 2 day seminar. Furious note-taking on my end is proof enough.
The first 6 sentences (in italics) summarize my take-a-ways from the conference.
Oooh! By the way, did I mention, that I wasn’t present at the conference in person, I was logged in remotely via the web and conference call sitting at my home computer 2500 miles away. So, if this is how I felt…can you imagine what impact it must have had on those present in the room? Just goes to show that a little goes a long way….literally.
Yes, I lost connection a few times, had some start up issues, the refresh button on my browser and the mouse cursor became thick pals, the music on the bridge kept me entertained for lengthy periods….and I got to see bright summary T-shirts and designer jean pockets from time to time….but who cares….these are minor things that can be improved. What is important to note here is that in spite of any technological challenge, I firmly believe now more than ever before that I am Vibha and Vibha begins with me!!!
Great job everyone who was involved in organizing this event! Vibha is a strong and determined movement that impresses me more each time. Volunteering for Vibha is something I am proud of. I will be sure to attend the event in person next year and must insist that you do too. Your take-a-ways are too many to list and you only have everything to gain!
-Lakshmi
