As a reminder, the last physical meeting of European chapter volunteers was almost exactly three years ago. At that time there were still four chapters in Germany. From this point of view, it was the first appearance of the PMI Germany Chapter at an international PMI event.
The desire to physically exchange ideas again was very clear. The atmosphere was accordingly good.
In terms of strategy, PMI is still in the process of transition. Since 1.9.2022 there is a new CEO, Pierre Le Manh, who was also present in Prague and answered questions about the strategy in an interview. While Sunil Prashara, the previous CEO, very much emphasized the growth element, Pierre Le Manh is more about achieving relevance and impact with what PMI does. That transitions into three strategic areas: "Expanding Reach," "Deepening Impact," and "Nurturing Lasting Relationships." The operational levels underneath are currently being discussed and should be ready by December, so that it will then be visible what PMI will do more in the future and also what, if necessary, should no longer be done. One can be curious.
In addition to the discussions on PMI's strategy, there were, as usual at such events, a number of best practice presentations. How can a chapter benefit from the ideas, products and projects of other chapters. This element is always central at such gatherings and was also the focus in Prague. It is always admirable to see what is being done by volunteers in the chapters. The projects range from the further development of the chapters to the realization of significant congresses and a multitude of social projects. The PMI Germany Chapter was represented by Raquel Magalhaes Carvalho (Volunteer Engagement Lead) and Jörg Glunde (VP Members). They made an excellent contribution to the best practice exchange with their presentation "A way to find and retain Volunteers: Volunteer Engagement and Development Framework".
A special highlight was the presence of Roman Reznikov, President of the Ukraine Chapter. He had asked that participating chapters check to see if they still had notebooks, pens, or similar items in their inventories and could bring them. It came together quite a bit and he is now organizing the transport to Ukraine.
Of course, celebrations were not to be missed. After three years the need was accordingly large.
