Pssst! PechaKucha

The origins of this fantastic event was born in Tokyo, Japan 2003. While two architects brainstormed and integrated their ideas – PechaKucha was realized and began to transform the landscape of presentations in the community. The literal translation in Japanese ぺちゃくちゃ means “chit-chat”, inspiring people to come together and have enlightening discussions, share knowledge, explore ideas, and give dynamic talks on passionate topics. The premise is quite simple, a storytelling format of 20 slides shown each for 20 seconds, allowing presenters only 6 minutes and 40 seconds to convey their message in a powerful and impactful way. A PechaKucha night serves to bring the people together to network, learn something that is meaningful and memorable, and support a movement that incorporates diversity and open-mindedness. Some presentations might introduce something completely new to you, and others might strike a chord and resonate with your beliefs or values. Whatever the case may be, it is always invigorating and stimulating to those who dare to attend.

Each year, four incredible events are held at various local venues across the island, appealing to anyone and everyone. The audience members are offered a 3 minute Q&A after each talk where they can pick the speaker’s brain further. I love seeing our community find growth together, discuss social or global issues, explore the unlimited power of our creativity, and engage in thought provoking and authentic conversations. The best part is that it is completely free and lead by a grassroots movement. We welcome the public and donations to give back to all those working behind the scene who make the night possible. I have been fortunate enough to be presented an amazing opportunity to collaborate and work with the PechaKucha Bermuda chapter this year, and of course I jumped at this chance to get involved with the organization, especially since I’ve been a big advocate of this event already.

Yet another exciting set of presentations took place at The Spinning Wheel complex for the 26th Volume of PKN Bermuda. Mental illness, subversive and controversial art, the power of words, courageousness in small spaces, body positivity and awakening the sacral chakra, moving pictures and video media were among the topics discussed. We had a full house attendance and patrons enjoyed a healthy vegan dinner catered by Modern Temple. Some of us made a conscious and sustainable decision to bring reusable dishware, utensils and tumblers to reduce single use plastic and waste. All in all, it was a largely successful night and I’m humbled to be volunteering with a group of wonderful people and amazing team. Check out my press release for this 26th edition of PechaKucha published in Bernews and The Royal Gazette. Follow us on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter to stay tuned for our next event – P R I D E edition – or if you are interested in giving a presentation yourself, we invite you to contact us! For all of my readers around the globe, check out the next PechaKucha 20×20 International event taking place in a city near you, to help celebrate this worldwide series. There are over 1000+ cities participating in PechaKucha Nights and I look forward to attending an event during my travels to other cities.