CONFERence buddy program

The Open Education Conference is excited to launch a brand-new networking pilot for OpenEd25.

Apply by September 12th to participate!

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Open Education Conference Buddy Program is a networking pilot designed to enhance the conference experience by fostering meaningful connections between attendees before, during, and after the event. Whether you're attending in-person in Denver, CO or virtually, this structured yet flexible program pairs attendees with fellow participants to facilitate knowledge sharing, mentorship, collaboration and professional relationship building.

WHO SHOULD Apply?

This program is open to all OpenEd25 conference attendees (both in-person and virtual) and is particularly valuable for:

  • New attendees seeking to build their professional network in open education

  • Returning participants looking to deepen existing connections

  • Anyone interested in mentorship opportunities (both as mentors and mentees)

  • Virtual attendees wanting to engage more meaningfully with the conference community

NOTE: Buddy “matches” will be made depending on enrolment numbers, and therefore application for the Buddy Program does not guarantee participation.

KEY DATES:

  • September 12: Application Deadline

  • September 26: Participants notified of their Buddy

  • October: First Buddy Meeting

  • October 28-30: OpenEd25 Conference

  • November: Final Buddy Meeting

HOW IT WORKS:

BEFORE THE CONFERENCE

  • Apply for the program by September 12th. The information you provide will be used to match participants in pairs (i.e. Buddies).

  • Introduction: Once pairings are made, participants will receive an introductory email.

  • Meeting: Buddies are encouraged to schedule a brief 15-30 minute virtual meet-up before the conference to get acquainted.

DURING THE CONFERENCE

Throughout the conference, mentors are expected to support their buddy throughout their conference experience. Both participants are also encouraged to help with networking and other conference activities.

Expected:

  • Foster a welcoming experience for all

  • Facilitate introductions

  • Mentors: Provide support navigating the conference

  • Mentees: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Engage curiously!

Encouraged:

  • Complete optional activities from a shared list

  • Attend networking events

  • Take and share notes with your Buddy

AFTER THE CONFERENCE

Schedule a final virtual meeting to reflect on their experience, share key learnings, and discuss actionable takeaways from the event.

QUESTIONS?

Contact us at contact@openeducationconference.org with questions.