The European Junior Water Programme (EJWP) recently convened in Lisbon for an intensive training week, as part of the iMERMAID project, bringing together professionals, experts, and innovators to explore new frontiers in water management. The event was a dynamic blend of knowledge-sharing, project development, and cross-cultural collaboration, providing a platform for participants to refine their skills and build connections in an ever-evolving sector.
The programme opened with a warm welcome from Naomi Timmer and the F6S team, setting the tone for an engaging and forward-thinking experience. Early sessions focused on the presentation of results from various water projects, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in managing complex initiatives across multicultural environments. An interactive Lego Serious Play session provided a creative and collaborative way for participants to explore the potential of the iMERMAID project, underscoring the value of innovative approaches in driving impactful solutions.
Under the leadership of Jennifer Cronick, participants delved into project management strategies aimed at addressing the complexities of working across organizations. Cronick’s long-standing role in the programme was instrumental in guiding attendees through the nuances of effective management in a sector where collaboration is key. The session culminated in an enriching discussion on refining management techniques. A crucial part of the programme was a dedicated session on personal branding, where participants explored how to effectively communicate their professional identities within the water sector. The workshop emphasized the importance of visibility, not just for individuals but for the projects they represent. By refining their communication strategies, participants ensured that their work in the water sector would stand at the forefront of innovation and societal impact.
Communication management took center stage in the following discussions, with a masterclass that addressed the key challenges in communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences. Two new project challenges were launched during the session: one from ITCL Centro Tecnológico & Socamex S.A., focused on the development of Digital Twins, and another from H2O People, designed to propel the next phase of societal impact for the iMERMAID EU initiative. A field visit to Beirolas Water Factory and educational center later in the day provided hands-on insights into the application of innovative technologies in water management.
The closing sessions took participants beyond traditional water management discussions, with a visit to IPMA and the GelAvista project, organized by Leo Mensel of the European Citizen Science Association (ECSA). GelAvista, a citizen science initiative that monitors jellyfish populations, highlighted the critical role that public engagement plays in gathering data for marine ecosystem research. The passion and dedication of the GelAvista team illustrated the immense potential of citizen science in contributing to environmental progress.
This week-long programme in Lisbon demonstrated the strength of peer learning, collaboration, and innovative thinking. F6S Innovation, alongside iMERMAID EU, H2O People, and ECSA, played an integral role in fostering an environment where participants could grow both professionally and personally. As EJWP and iMERMAID continue to build momentum, the Lisbon training week stands as a testament to the programme’s ability to drive meaningful impact in the water sector, shaping the leaders and solutions of tomorrow.
