15 Seconds Festival in Graz: An Informative Experience for Entrepreneurs, Designers, and Marketers

This year marks my second visit to the 15 Seconds Festival in Graz. As I arrived at the festival site, I was immediately drawn to the large lighting signs at the entry, setting the stage for what promised to be a packed schedule of informative lectures and meaningful networking opportunities with various presenting companies.

The festival showcases a variety of emerging designers presenting their innovative products, from creative seating solutions to unique clothing designs. One notable theme that stood out this year was the emphasis on ecology and vegan food, reflecting the growing interest in sustainability and conscious consumerism.

The talks during the festival were concise and to the point, as each presenter had a limited time to showcase their company or topic. While this format prevented in-depth discussions, it allowed the representation of numerous themes within a short period. Among the talks, my favourite was the panel on overcoming imposter syndrome, a theme resonating with many professionals. Hearing experiences and insights from individuals in higher work positions were inspiring and enlightening. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the festival was the networking opportunities it provided. I had the chance to connect with many interesting individuals, incubators, and companies previously unknown to me.

One unique and engaging way the festival encouraged interaction among attendees was the "message in a bottle" installation. Participants wrote about themselves on a piece of paper and placed it in a glass bottle. Then they tossed the glass bottle into a pool at the festival's garden area.

Attendees had the opportunity to "fish" out a bottle and discover the thoughts and backgrounds of fellow attendees, fostering a sense of camaraderie and curiosity.

Aside from the thought-provoking talks and networking opportunities, the festival offered a lot of entertaining activities, such as mini-golf, laser games, tattoos, and ball pools, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for all attendees.

In conclusion, the 15 Seconds Festival in Graz proved to be an enriching experience for entrepreneurs, designers, and marketers alike. The diverse range of topics, emphasis on sustainability and networking opportunities made it a must-attend event for anyone looking to learn and connect with like-minded individuals in Styria.