UIA - HOLDS ROUND TABLE ASIA-PACIFIC 2021

 The ninth Round Table Convention of the Union of International Associations (UIA) was held in Business Events,Tokyo on October 21-22, 2021 in a hybrid format designed for participants working in and with international associations. onsite participants from Japan actively engaged in the forum discussion, and online delegates from overseas raised questions via Live Q&A.

Dr. Belen L. Tangco represented the UMEC-WUCT-.She expressed appreciation of the Opening Address and Keynote presentation of President Cyril Ritchie of UIA. She inquired about some of the president’s personal experiences in his collaboration with the United Nations and the NGOs partners, on some advocacies that gained ground and on commitments made through Resolutions.

The president thankfully and sincerely shared that global civic society should develop stronger framework and mechanism to have their voices heard in the United Nations where intergovernmental discussions are also held. Fake news do not exist in in the UN system. Fake news have no interest in truth, only in personal use.

Panel Speakers:

Belinda Moore of Australia. She underscored the change in landscape for planning. With the pandemic, there is a narrow impact to navigate from 426 associations she was communicating with to a much-reduced number.

Now, strategic planning considers the impact made on clients, on those whom associations serve. Now, strategic planning is only a one-page plan. Now, a 5-year plan is rare to document. A 3-year plan may be used, but an annual review is necessary. Every operation is transitional. The operation landscape is shifting based on the understanding of factors which are technological, generational, competitive, communication diversified, and work-lifestyle connected.

Chris Dingcong of Hong Kong. With his design consultancy in active mode, the pandemic reduced it to a veritably passive consultation via email. In weeks however, they became “zombies.” At its upside, the designers had more time to design brands for companies and establishments. In branding, associations are given voice to speak truth to power. The real magic lies in asking audience to be part of the story built by the brand. He says, “we breathe life to the brand.”

Julian Moore of Australia. He spoke of a huge shift in partnerships. From a multibillion dollar partnership, huge disruption of pandemic bares largest expectations to be realized. Governments scooped up debts; number of meetings multiplied, leaving him as “megazoombie.” Corporate collaboration is essential.

Designer-architect Chris was the only live person on stage. With him were six robots from Japan, England, India, enhancing robotic technology. Avatar robots have 360 degree-mobility. The simplest form is “Telepii” which gives telepresence. It can be used on iPhones and latest smartphones for compatibility. In paying a remote visit to a family member or friend, a robot hugs and executes high touch or a high five. Its worldwide network is a teleportation as part of smart infrastructure. The final goal, however, is to connect people; robotic technology is for people to collaborate in the community, like sick children in hospitals remotely collaborating with schoolmates.

 Toni Brearley focused on leadership that leads with the head and the heart. There is a shift from a “ I know it all” to “ I learn it all.” Staying focused on the mission and purpose of the organization immensely helps. Collaborative efforts are geared towards a collective problem-solving.
The UIA looks forward to welcoming more member associations in forthcoming conventions. UIA External Relations Manager Clara Fernandez Lopez served as anchor moderator from Brussels and Kaye from Tokyo acted as moderator at the Business Events Tokyo auditorium.

UIA - ROUND TABLE