Cohorts come together for Lifelong Fellows gathering

From 29 April - 2 May 2022, Fellows from the three completed Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity cohorts (2018, 2019 and 2021) came together for a Lifelong Fellows gathering on Wurundjeri Country.

The range of activities, hosted at the University of Melbourne with support from Pou Jackie Huggins and Mark Yettica-Paulson, created a real sense of reconnection between Fellows and a seamless introduction to the most recent cohort.

Fellows from the 2018, 2019 and 2021 cohorts at the University of Melbourne. Photo: James Henry

The first two days of the gathering saw the 2021 Cohort reconnect, and in some instances connect for the first time, and celebrate joining the lifelong global fellowship stage. Due to COVID travel restrictions, the Australia and Aotearoa-based 2021 Cohort Fellows were only able to meet in person within their home countries during their foundation year.

2021 Fellows celebrating officially joining the lifelong global fellowship stage. Photo: James Henry

Having reconnected, the 2021 Cohort were then joined by the earlier cohorts for the final two days. Over the course of these days, Fellows strengthened and built new relationships and explored shared challenges and opportunities.

Fellows, AFSE staff and guests at the end of the gathering. Photo: Peter Casamento

The gathering preceded an upcoming global Fellows convening the Atlantic Institute will host in Thailand in July.