AHI Conference & Discover Heritage Awards 2019 – Facts, Fiction & Interpretation
Whose Truth? Whose interpretation do we choose?
In the era of fake news and propaganda, these were the big questions at this year’s AHI Conference & Discover Heritage Awards. An exploration of exact truths, interpretations and uncertainties was tackled during the three-day programme. We participated in an array of opportunities, so we could learn, listen and liaise in the following ways:
- Ardent and dedicated key note speakers
- Inspiring and informative guest speakers
- A site visit to the historical and imposing Bletchley Park
- Multiple invaluable networking sessions
Bletchley Park, once the top-secret home of the iconic WWII code-breakers, and now a vibrant and fascinating heritage attraction, was enjoyed by all. The code-breakers experience was very passionately delivered, followed by a tour of the exhibits; the intelligence, intuition and resolve displayed by the code-breakers, in such times of hardship, was quite incredible. Some of us even boarded the heritage train from Bedford, which in itself was a journey of learning, as we passed through many heritage landmarks along the way.
One of the most fascinating, thought provoking and insightful presentations was delivered by Chris Walker from Bright White. Focusing on their Forever Project at the National Holocaust Memorial Museum, which included extracts from interviews with Kitty, a survivor of the Holocaust, was both humbling and an honour to watch.
The 2019 Discover Heritage Awards
For NovaDura the awards, which we were honoured to have sponsored and co-presented with Loyd Grossman, who’s dedication to English heritage is paramount, was the pinnacle of the three days. Fellow sponsors, including Minvera Heritage, The Way Design, Bright 3D, Studio LR and our long-standing friends at HDC introduced an impressive shortlist of projects. It was great to see the passion, enjoyment and satisfaction emit from the winners, judges and the rest of the audience. The night included a sumptuous meal, the allocation of awards – which were produced by HDC – and lots of chat and laughter… and of course it was compulsory to partake in one or two celebratory drinks!
Most importantly the conference was a great success; a mass of enthusiasm radiated from the delegates, speakers and exhibitors alike. Moreover, the AHI helps nurture fledgling relationships with their members. In addition, it introduces us to many new contacts and opportunities. It’s a little bit like being in a private members club, where everyone really wants to help each other. We look forward to the next event, where we believe we may be in for a touch of the Blarney! Can’t wait!
For more information on the AHI, details of next year’s conference and other members and suppliers, go to https://ahi.org.uk/
For the Holocaust Project visit: https://www.holocaust.org.uk/foreverproject1
Check out our latest projects HERE.
For more information or quote, please email us at info@novadura.com or contact us on 01282 227550