The Game is Passion, the Trick is Networking

The Listen, Learn, Live (LLL) program hosted its second WISE workshop on 12 April, under the theme of “Investing in Connections — the Power of Networking”, with a strong focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The workshop took place at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), where attendees included keynote speaker Arifa Parkar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Western Cape Business Opportunities Forum (WECBOF), and Professor Deresh Ramjuganath, Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Rector and Vice-Chancellor.

“The intention behind this second workshop was to equip LLL students with the skills to network and collaborate effectively. The opportunity to showcase their plans for their house projects allows them to be proactive and to identify any blind spots they may have. The stakeholders that attended did a fantastic job at pointing out areas for improvement and collaboration,” said Andri Malan, LLL intern (Stakeholders and Alumni Engagement).

Keynote address.

During her keynote, Parkar highlighted the importance and influence of networking in the promotion, development, and sustainability of the SDG projects driven by LLLers.

Building a network before leaving university, Parkar explained, is sometimes as easy as having a conversation with someone who shares your interests or works in a related field. “It all starts with reading and observing the room,” she said.

“It is important that you don’t miss an opportunity for networking. When you go for sponsorship [pitches], never mention money,” she added.

Parkar also emphasized the importance of authenticity: “The most important thing is to tell your story. Never sell your story. What you say is not merely as important as how you say it.”

SDG presentations and exhibitions.

Each LLL House presented its SDG goal, outlining their current initiatives and plans for making their projects sustainable. The presentations focused on each house’s outlining of their current initiative and plans for making their projects sustainable of their respective SDG goal.

The goals include zero hunger, no poverty, quality education, gender equality, and peace, justice and strong institutions, among others.

This interactive segment allowed for meaningful conversations and feedback, giving participants the opportunity to reflect on their approaches and strengthen their plans.

The session concluded with a networking lunch, providing an informal space for attendees to connect, share ideas, and build relationships across fields.

Arifa’s presentation was the highlight of the workshop, according to Keenen Gilbert, a LLL member. “Getting the practical knowledge of what networking is and how to apply it,” said Gilbert.