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NAMES 2024: A Year of Rejuvenation and Growth


2024 was an incredible year for NAMES, marked by renewed commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the MENA region. We embraced the digital age, reimagined our approach to connecting with our community, and emerged with a renewed sense of vigor.

A Year of Renewed Commitment

NAMES Team focused on four key tracks:

  • Generating Content: We developed engaging content through in-person and online activities, digital resources, and other formats. This included identifying topics of interest through member feedback and developing webinars, meetups, articles, and posts.
  • Enhancing Communication: We strengthened our online presence through website updates, targeted social media campaigns, and the creation of a new WhatsApp Community for efficient communication and focused discussions. We also developed a shared calendar of activities to foster collaboration and coordination among members.
  • Fostering Collaboration: We prioritized building strong relationships with expert institutions and individuals. Highlights include the EMME Masterclass on Exhibition Development, participation in Ecsite's Marketing and Fundraising Meetups, and continued collaboration with RedPOP for the International Day of Scientific Culture. We also partnered with the Exploratorium to translate valuable Tinkering Activities into Arabic
  • Building Community: We reintroduced the NAMES Conference after a five-year hiatus, fostering valuable networking and knowledge exchange. We also organized a series of webinars and meetups, including SciComm Mixers and SciComm Scopes, to connect science communicators across the region. To further strengthen community building, we are launching a Staff Exchange Program in 2025 and are currently developing a Mentorship Program. We also aim to foster Communities of Practice for Makers & Tinkerers, Exhibit Developers, and Marketers & Fundraisers.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, NAMES remains committed to empowering science engagement professionals in the MENA region. We will continue to:

  • Generate high-quality, accessible content.
  • Enhance communication and community engagement.
  • Foster collaborative initiatives and partnerships.
  • Build a strong and supportive network of science engagement professionals.

Together, we can build a brighter future for science engagement in the region.