Metafari Ya Kwanza – Day 2 - Norwegian Conference Center in Tanzania

It is the second day of the Metafari. Life is good.
All of us gather to watch the sun rise. Lions grunting close by. Elephants drinking water in the waterhole just a few steps away. The bats in the large tree making it feel like it is alive. It's magic
Our driver Rajabo urges us to get in the car for the long journey to TICC. Before we leave he points out to the lions that are resting under a tree. The small impala is strolling around only 50 meters away.
It’ a six hour drive to the Centre but with 3 people in the back end, 3 in the front seat we have good opportunity for reflections in groups.
The last part of road to Tanga International Conference Centre is a bit bumpy, but will be fixed before the President is coming to officially open Phase 1 of the centre, and to put down the foundation stone for the large conference hall.

Ruth introduced us to the centre. We talked about what images to look for through the eyes of the camera. Ruth asked for pictures and stories around the words connect, combine and create, as they express the basic values of the centre. In pair interviews we explored the golden moments of the last day and had a short reflection afterwards.
Discussions continued through dinner, throughout the sunset.
When we asked to interview some representatives from the staff to tell us more about the market we are going to visit tomorrow, it turned out that everybody wanted to contribute and tell their story.

Inspiration Focus: The Tanga International Conference Centre

Lessons Learned: How long time it takes to build a solid foundation of trust for social entrepreneurship. The importance of insect repellent in the evening.

Method Toolbox Contributions: Reciprocal Inspiration Interview.

Metaphor Treasure Chest Additions: A consultant as a tree. An organisation as an orchestra. PC on standby as the stressed European. A painting as a story. The frog who is waiting to become princes/princesses.

Creative Expressions
The Tree
The tree is clearly visible, even from a distance. The trunk is thick and straight. The strong branches strive towards the sky, creating the perfect scaffolding for the dark green leafs.
In the morning breeze, the tree shakes its leafs and greets the sun. The blue birds come to eat the mango, or the insects, or both. Sometimes at the top, sharing the view. Sometimes from the lowest branches, keeping an eye on the ground.
At midday, people gather in its shade. Sitting down, resting. Sharing stories, sharing food. Talking about dreams. Talking about fears. Leaving refreshed.
In the evening, when the sun has come to rest, the small bats come alive. The go from here to there, swapping places. Quickly, quickly. They go on and on until dawn.
Then comes the breeze again.