Raglan is linking up with the PechaKucha global network even sooner than expected by agreeing to take part in a worldwide PechaKucha fundraising event for Haiti on 20-21 February.
The aim is to raise money for rebuilding work being carried out in Haiti by Architecture for Humanity, a volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to using high quality design to build a more sustainable future. AFH operates globally, and was instrumental in getting projects built after the Indian Ocean tsunami and Hurricaine Katrina.
On Feb. 20, the 276 cities that host PechaKucha events worldwide will converge to present one continuous 24-hour edition of a PechaKucha Night. Kicking off at SuperDeluxe in Tokyo, where PechaKucha Night was first conceived seven years ago, the presentation wave will travel eastward, with cities presenting one after the other. Crossing all times zones and cultures, the event will be streamed live online and then finish in Tokyo the following day. All proceeds will go to Architecture for Humanity for rebuilding schools, health clinics and community structures in Haiti. In organizing this event PechaKucha intends to not only raise funds through pledges from host cities and contributions from individuals but also illustrate the power of innovative minds and share ideas for change and sustainability.
Although our own PechaKucha doesn’t launch in Raglan till 4 March, we are already part of the network, so come along to the Old School Arts Centre to watch the worldwide link up of as the show rolls around the time zones — 2,000 presentations involving 200,000 people over 24 hours.
Entry will be by koha/donation, coffee etc and home made goodies will be on sale, with 100% of funds raised going to the appeal for Haiti, so come along for as long as you like, sit back and enjoy what is likely to be an amazing experience. (Those thinking of presenting at Raglan’s opening night in March can see the power of the PechaKucha 20×20 format for themselves.)
The Old School will be open from 8 pm —till late on Saturday 20th, then all day Sunday till the 24 hour cycle ends in Tokyo.
Judith Collins
