What is the GeekRetreat?
The GeekRetreat is a weekend event bringing together pioneers from the South African Internet (entrepreneurs, journalists, PR professionals, engineers, non-profits) to talk about and experiment with enriching the Internet as a public space in South Africa.
How does it work?
The GeekRetreat is a community-driven “unconference” where participants design the schedule live on-site. Since participants mostly pay their own way, they have much higher incentives to be fully engaged.
Who is in charge of the GeekRetreat?
No one really. This is a community-driven initiative. Everyone plays their part in making the event a success. We do have a small steering committee that provides some leadership but mostly it’s about rolling up our sleeves and getting things done together.
How do I get to come to the GeekRetreat?
Find out when the next retreat is happening. Sign up to the mailing list or put a ‘geekretreat’ alert on your twitter client. When applications open, be sure to send in an application, letting us know what you can do to help.
What if I can’t afford it?
We have five volunteer spots for people who can help organize and who will benefit from the weekend in a measurable way. Look out for an announcement on how to apply.
What happens at the GeekRetreat?
The weekend is organised around different kinds of sessions – skill shares, workshops, debates, lightning talks and talking heads sessions. In 2011, we'll actually work on making stuff including ‘SA Startup Secrets’ that compile the best practices and services for tech startups in SA; and Skills Videos to share with kids on the Obami network and elsewhere that teach tech/life skills. As well as some hard work, GeekRetreat participants traditionally organise afternoon outings. In 2010 it was to a local Stanford Valley brewery; in 2011 we’re hoping to have our own version of ‘Survivor’ challenges. Most of all it’s about being intellectually stimulated and having a lot of fun at the same time.
Where does the money go?
Participants’ fees are kept as low as possible – with administrative fees being garnered from sponsorships. We don’t allow sponsors to put up any banners at the event because we want to continue the feeling that this is just a fun weekend away with friends. We do thank sponsors on our site and publicly at the gathering because they’re some of the special few who recognise how important it is for us to do it this way.
