9:00-10:00 Strengthening Our Network: Alumni Association Collaboration & Capacity
Building
The session includes three key activities to foster connection and idea-sharing among alumni associations. First, association leaders present brief showcases of successful initiatives and challenges. Next, participants map out existing and desired collaborations on a regional networking map to visualize connections. Finally, small peer exchange circles offer focused discussions based on common challenges or themes, encouraging deeper learning and relationship-building.
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10:00-12:30 Project Pitching and Brainstorming: Developing Ideas for Country Small Grants
In this session, participants will be divided into country-specific groups to brainstorm project ideas that address broadening alumni engagement within their communities. Each group will work on developing a project outline, focusing on strengthening alumni communities and impact. Once the project ideas are developed, each group will transform their concept into a compelling Ignite-style presentation.
12:30-13:00 Coffee and Tea break
13:00-14:30 Final Presentations and Feedback Panel
In this concluding session, each country group will formally present their alumni engagement project proposals following an ignite-style short format, allowing participants to pitch their initiatives to an expert panel and receive constructive feedback.
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Presentation Format & Flow:
Presentation Time: Each team will have 5 minutes to present their small grant idea.
Q&A/Feedback: Following each pitch, the expert panel will provide 5 minutes of feedback and ask clarifying questions.
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What the Presentations Should Include:
Context/Problem Statement: Briefly outline the issue the project aims to address.
Proposed Idea/Intervention: Describe the main initiative or solution.
Key Stakeholders/Partners: Highlight the people or organizations involved in the project.
Anticipated Impact: Discuss the expected outcomes, scalability, and sustainability.
Clear Ask: Clearly state what is needed next (e.g., support, funding, visibility).
Feedback Panel Composition:
U.S. Embassy Representatives, including Public Affairs staff
Regional and International Investors or innovation experts
Civil Society Leaders and alumni with project implementation and advocacy experience
Donor Agency Representatives or development fund experts
Criteria for Evaluation & Feedback:
Clarity: Is the idea communicated effectively and concisely?
Feasibility: Can the project realistically be implemented with available resources?
Relevance: Does the idea address a real and pressing need in the region?
Scalability & Sustainability: Can the project be replicated and sustained over time?
Alignment: Does the project align with the broader goals and values of the Summit?
Outcome: This session will provide participants the opportunity to showcase their ideas, receive valuable feedback, and gain visibility. The goal is to help teams refine their proposals and open doors to potential support networks and resources for further development.
​Closing Remarks
15:00-16:00 Networking and Lunch
20:00-TBD Gala Night: Celebrating MAAA’s 25-year-anniversary