BAD’s GroundSwell: Event and Project Management subjects come to life for ICMS students

The recent GroundSwell event, a multimedia festival that unfolded over the weekend from the 27 to 29 October, served as a window into the ambitious plans of the Brookvale Arts District (BAD) initiative. It also served as an excellent industry immersion opportunity for ICMS Project Management and Event Management students.

“This initiative holds significance for our educational institution as a key contributor to the local economy.

“It provides us with a unique opportunity to actively contribute to positive community change while simultaneously affording our students the opportunity to engage in a high-level Project Management and Event Management experience,” explained Nicole Venter, ICMS Senior Program Manager, when asked about ICMS’s role in the Brookvale Arts District civic leadership initiative.

Industry immersion and engagement

The experience shaped students’ understanding of fundamental Project Management and Event Management concepts and the behavioural skills essential for the successful initiation, leadership, and realisation of event and community projects.

For the Project Management (BUS304A) class it provided a unique and real-world Project Management case study opportunity and for the Creating Event Experiences (EVT302A) class, an opportunity to understand the realities of community projects and increased due diligence to execute them effectively.

Included in the weekend program were a series of business and creative talks featuring the BAD founders and ICMS staff and alumni, as well as a raffle driven by ICMS students and a merchandise booth to raise funds for the non for profit initiative.

Students helped out at the event, giving them a chance to observe the work that goes on behind-the-scenes at these types of events.

ICMS X BAD = Synergistic relationship

BAD, a collaborative project orchestrated by the NSW State Government, the Northern Beaches Council, local businesses and ICMS takes a central role in the realm of urban renewal.

Project and Event Management are both essential aspects of BAD’s strategy which is poised to revitalise the core of Brookvale, creating a ripple effect of economic and social benefits throughout the local community.

Key projects will be ‘the growth of arts, culture, industry and live entertainment’ as well as driving ‘projects in infrastructure and urban renewal improvements, including streetscape, parking, lighting, pedestrian safety and transport.’

The ICMS X BAD partnership epitomises ICMS’s broader mission to champion civil leadership within the economy. The alliance underscores ICMS’ commitment to fostering growth and development in communities poised for transformation. The institution’s involvement embodies a unique blend of education, vision, and commitment, aimed at promoting the social and economic development of the area, all underpinned by the guiding principles of Project Management.

Through this industry immersion, students are exposed to a practical, hands-on approach to Project Management via engagement in key projects such as the GroundSwell festival. A significant focus is placed on the critical success factors required to navigate resistance to change, a critical aspect of the BAD initiative, given its community-driven nature, necessitating innovative Project Management strategies.

The partnership between Project and Event Management students and industry symbolises the synergy between educational institutions and community development. ICMS brings a unique blend of academic expertise and practical Project Management, further enriching the prospects for a revitalised Brookvale – whilst providing students with a fun, meaningful learning experience.

The BAD initiative began as the brainchild of co-founders John Meredith, Lara Allport and Miguel Gonzales who have gained support from key figures such as ICMS Masterclass speaker Michael Rodrigues, the inaugural 24-Hour Economy Commissioner of New South Wales (NSW), assigned with the mission of aligning state and local Governments with industry leaders to create secure and vibrant recreational opportunities for the residents of Sydney.

In addition to Michael Rodrigues, key figures such as the Mayor of the Northern Beaches Council, Sue Heins, Michael Regan MP, Member of the Legislative Assembly and Member for Wakehurst, along with a diverse array of community members and local business representatives, lent their support to the civic project.

For more information on the BAD-ICMS collaboration, click here.

For more on the ICMS Bachelor of Event Management, click here.