Each movement has their own unique set of resources. Consider how with or without staff, a student could replicate it according to their resources. University student offices, students’ personal network of contacts, social media, or the local church are options for finding a venue, promoting or borrowing an extra set of hands.
Delegate volunteers to be in charge of the booking, ordering supplies and setting up. “Anyone can contribute to their capacity,” says Roxane, President of Student Life at Brookes. “Everyone has their own gifts and ways to contribute.”
Remember to start early. Begin planning at least two months prior to the event. This gives you more time to prepare as well as opportunities to invite students met on campus and have more conversations with them.
You don’t need to be (nor hire) a professional photographer. Juanita says, “Anyone can do the photos! Just find a good place [and] good lighting.” You also don’t need a fancy camera and lighting equipment. A decent phone and photo editing apps could do the job well. Again, use resources at your disposal.
For the International Women’s Day shoots in Italy and the UK, women write a message of encouragement on their body for other women. Asking women their message and its personal significance sparks conversations that are an opportunity to introduce how God views women.
Make connections. Build friendships. One group likes to give each participant her photo over a cup of coffee. Offer guests the opportunity to sign-up for discussion groups on a topic relevant to the event or for coffee meetings.
Read "You Can Do it, But Will You?" the story of one young woman whose life changed in the time between the past two Carra Donna events in Bologna, Italy.
