Back to the Future or In the Future? A Recap of LGcomms Academy 2024: A Revolutionary Experience in Wigan

The LGcomms Academy 2024, held on October 10-11 in the heart of Wigan, was nothing short of inspiring! This vibrant gathering of public sector communicators ignited conversations around collaboration, innovation, and community, all set against the backdrop of Wigan’s unique charm.

Personal Highlights from the Event

One of the most exciting moments? The headline sponsor (e-shot), brought along a stunning DeLorean—yes, the iconic car from Back to the Future! Even better, it was signed by the entire film cast, making it a must-see attraction.

We were also graced by the presence of Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, who took a moment to connect with attendees in a lively meet-and-greet.

An Agenda Packed with Insights

The Academy’s schedule was bursting with engaging sessions tailored for communicators at all levels. Experts led discussions on crucial topics like digital communication strategies, crisis management, and the power of social media in community engagement. Each session was curated to allow attendees to take away actionable takeaways they could immediately implement in their organisations.

Dynamic Speakers

We were fortunate to hear from a diverse lineup of speakers, each a field-specific leader. Their insights not only enriched the discussions but also challenged participants to reflect critically on their own practices and the hurdles they face, a brilliant atmosphere for collaboration along the peers!

Networking Galore

One of the standout features of the Academy was its strong emphasis on networking. Attendees had countless opportunities to connect, share ideas, and forge collaborations that are sure to extend well beyond the event.

Interactive Formats

In a refreshing twist, the Academy introduced informal discussion platforms called unconference (something that is getting more popular!) where participants could pitch topics for conversation as well as collaborate on new concepts. This innovative approach fostered a dynamic and engaging learning environment which allowed attendees to actively shape the discussions and share their unique experiences.

Celebrating Community Spirit

True to LGcomms’ ethos, the Academy radiated warmth and inclusivity in this event as every participant’s unique skill set was recognised, inspiring rich conversations and connections among peers.

Unforgettable Social Event

The evenings were filled with joy and laughter, featuring a lively pie and peas night—very much a Northern delight! With northern soul dancers and a fantastic DJ, these social gatherings added an extra layer of fun, strengthening connections in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Inspiring Keynote Address

A major highlight was the keynote address delivered by a leading figure in public sector communication, who shared visionary insights into the future of the field and emphasised the necessity of adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape, something very future like I must add 🙂

Reflections on the Experience

The 2024 LGcomms Academy transcended the typical event experience; it was a transformative journey that left attendees invigorated and brimming with new ideas. Many returned to their roles with a renewed passion and a treasure trove of resources to draw from—truly a forward-thinking experience!

Looking Ahead

If you missed this year’s Academy, don’t fret! Keep an eye out for future opportunities to connect with LGcomms. Next year promises to build on this year’s successes with even more enriching content and networking possibilities. Here’s to the continued growth and innovation in public sector communications and we are hoping to see more of you in Bristol, July 2025 where the next innovative Academy will take place!