Inspired by the title and invitation, around 22 people — mostly entrepreneurs, as well as university professors and other interested parties — came together to create a trusting space where they could share their questions and everyday challenges, and clear their heads for the future.
We asked Anna and Teresa:
What prompted you to organise such a meeting?
Teresa Mazzei: The belief that people can do business for the benefit of all, and the hope that this will happen sooner rather than later. These small steps can support the big endeavour!
What was the quality and structure of the meeting?
Anna Dal Passo: In the first part, we aimed to encourage deep reflection on the personal and entrepreneurial values that underpin our decisions. Starting with reflection in pairs, we then worked in small groups. Participants were invited to share their personal experiences and discuss the obstacles they had encountered in recent years on the way to achieving their goals.
We refrained from making personal judgements and offering opinions, instead trying to steer the dialogue towards complete openness. We encouraged active listening and participation, and sought to establish connections between the various contributions, aiming for a harmonious resonance rather than the 'solo performances' that are usually seen at traditional conferences.
After a pleasant and restful lunch break, we shared our deepest thoughts and then tried to summarise the day's insights in a simple, easily applicable scheme (see Flippchard).
In the end, we said goodbye feeling as though we had planted a seed, thanks to the active meditation, too.
Was there anything that surprised you?
Anna Dal Passo: I believe the foundations have been laid for a new form of economic and cultural cooperation. There is undoubtedly a lot to do. Initial courage must now be replaced by perseverance and patience to move the project forward over time. However, I could see genuine enthusiasm in the eyes of many participants, and as Steiner said, 'We shouldn't do anything that doesn't excite us'. From this perspective, I would say that the conditions are right.
Where do you see potential?
Teresa Mazzei: What I found very interesting, and what many people mentioned, was the need to involve young people and show them that a different economy is possible. I believe that this is the direction in which we should continue to focus our efforts.
I would also like to thank CulturaSi and NaturaSi for their help with organising the event.
Andrea Valdinoci (WGA)
