Description

The idea for this event was born when the former IEEE GOLD chair of Germany, Michael Schoner contacted GOLD SL and conveyed his plan to visit Sri Lanka in July. It was decided to use this opportunity to exchange ideas with the GOLD Germany representative and give the chance for all the membership to socialize and network in a relaxed atmosphere. The event kicked off at 6.30 pm with GOLD SL Chair, Hasala welcoming, former chair of IEEE GOLD Germany, Michael Schoner and his fiancé Constance, and the SL GOLD membership to the function. In between the small talks and the snacks many ground breaking ideas came out from the brainstorming session. The topics discussed varied from, experiences of GOLD Germany with regard to the events, structure of the organization, country financial regulations and event financing and new initiatives to GOLD Sri Lanka events, membership, structure and strategic plan for the future. It also did run to general topics like correlation of crime and poverty gap. Some of the ideas discussed were, • Sending a hot air balloon from Sri Lanka and Germany at the same time and streaming the videos • Ability to extend the Sri Lanka local pre Extreme online practice sessions to encompass any interested German Students • GOLD Germany’s success in using SAM IEEE to find contacts of senior (unknown) IEEE members to conduct monthly talks, in topics relevant to young professionals • GOLD Germany’s experience with using SAM IEEE data base in reminding the affiliate members who have transitioned to full members to change their membership grade • What being a member of IEEE means in Germany and Sri Lanka, the similarities and the differences and the opportunities available for members of different IEEE regions • How a IEEE society chapter is viewed in Sri Lanka and Germany • The view on IEEE changing its publications from printed to digital base. Michael was next given a token of remembrance by the Secretary of IEEE GOLD, Lalintha. The relaxing and fun filled event finished at 11.00pm after the members participated in a small photo shoot to mark this historic occasion. IEEE GOLD SL extends special appreciation to Michael Schoner of IEEE Germany and Region 10 SSR Pasan Pethiyagode for joining with GOLD SL in making this event a success.