Organizing the Global Wellbeing Conference 2024 – Behind the Scenes of an International Initiative

As part of my summer internship with Reimagining Society, one of my most exciting responsibilities has been assisting with the organization of the upcoming Global Wellbeing Conference 2024. This annual event, which gathers changemakers, policymakers, and global leaders, focuses on three critical themes: Conflict Prevention, Gender Equality, and Climate Action. Working closely with the CEO’s office, I’ve had the privilege of playing a key role in the preparations for the conference, which is set to take place later this year.

Preparing for a Global Platform

The Global Wellbeing Conference is one of Reimagining Society’s most significant initiatives, and preparing for an event of this scale is no small feat. My role involved coordinating with a diverse array of partner organizations and members to ensure that the event reflects the voices of those working on the frontlines of these global challenges. The themes of the conference—Conflict Prevention, Gender Equality, and Climate Action—are particularly timely and important, as they address the intersecting crises that many communities are facing today.


In the run-up to the conference, I was tasked with conducting consultation sessions with our partner organizations and members. These sessions were critical in shaping the content of the conference. We wanted to ensure that the discussions at the event were informed by real-world experiences and challenges. Through these consultations, I had the opportunity to engage with organizations working on gender equality, climate resilience, and conflict prevention in various regions, from South Asia to Sub-Saharan Africa. Each session brought valuable insights that helped refine the themes and ensure that the conference would have a meaningful impact.


Managing the Application Process

One of the major tasks I undertook was helping to manage the application process for the conference. This year, we aimed to attract a broad spectrum of participants—ranging from grassroots activists and academics to policymakers and government officials. The application process was extensive, requiring coordination across multiple teams to ensure that we were reaching the right audiences.


Through targeted marketing efforts—including social media campaigns, newsletters, and direct outreach—we were able to generate significant interest in the event. As of now, we’ve received over 3,000 applications from individuals and organizations who are eager to attend and contribute to the discussions. The sheer volume of applications speaks to the importance of the conference’s themes and the global appetite for meaningful dialogue on these critical issues.


Each application underwent a thorough review process. We sought to curate a diverse group of attendees, ensuring that voices from marginalized and underrepresented communities were prioritized. This was particularly important for the theme of gender equality, where we aimed to elevate the voices of women who are leading change in their communities but often lack access to global platforms.


Engaging the Global Community

Another key part of my work has been helping to maintain regular communication with applicants and partner organizations. This has involved sending out newsletters with updates on the conference, including keynote speakers, panel topics, and opportunities for engagement. These newsletters have been an important tool in keeping our growing community informed and excited about the event.


In addition to sending out newsletters, I’ve been involved in coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure that the logistical details of the conference are in place. From securing venues to coordinating with guest speakers, the preparations have been complex but rewarding. One of the most exciting aspects of this process has been seeing the way different organizations—some of which operate in vastly different contexts—come together around shared goals.


For example, one of our partner organizations, which works on climate resilience in coastal communities, shared insights during our consultations that have directly influenced the structure of one of the panel discussions. Similarly, a grassroots women’s organization from East Africa provided input on the theme of gender equality, highlighting the specific challenges that women in their region face in accessing climate adaptation resources. These consultations have reinforced the importance of collaboration and the need for inclusive spaces where diverse voices can be heard.


The Road Ahead: Final Preparations

While much progress has been made, the preparations for the Global Wellbeing Conference 2024 are still ongoing. The next few months will be crucial as we finalize the agenda, confirm speakers, and coordinate the logistics of bringing together participants from around the world. The energy surrounding the event is palpable, and I’m excited to see how the conference will unfold.


One of the key focuses in the coming weeks will be refining the agenda to ensure that the conference not only addresses the critical themes but also provides actionable takeaways for attendees. Each panel and discussion session is being designed with a solutions-oriented approach, encouraging participants to share ideas and strategies that can be implemented in their respective contexts.


Reflections on the Process

Organizing the Global Wellbeing Conference has been an incredibly enriching experience. It has given me a deeper understanding of the intricate logistics behind hosting a global event, but more importantly, it has shown me the power of collaboration. The consultation sessions, in particular, have highlighted the importance of listening to those who are most affected by the issues we aim to address.


One of the most fulfilling aspects of this work has been the opportunity to contribute to a platform that elevates underrepresented voices. The themes of Conflict Prevention, Gender Equality, and Climate Action are not just abstract concepts—they are real, urgent issues that affect millions of lives every day. By helping to shape the discussions at the Global Wellbeing Conference, I feel privileged to play a part in driving forward these critical conversations.


The conference represents a unique opportunity to bring together leaders, advocates, and changemakers from around the world to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time. I look forward to seeing the connections, collaborations, and solutions that emerge from this global gathering.

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