My AFEA - University of Ghana Annual Economic Conference Experience - AFEA Bulletin

As the 2024 AFRICAN FINANCE AND ECONOMIC ASSOCIATION Graduate Experiential Fellow (AGEF), I was privileged to serve on the AFRICAN FINANCE AND ECONOMIC ASSOCIATION - University of Ghana Annual Economic Conference Organizing Committee held in Accra, Ghana, from July 16th to 18th, 2024. The conference management experience significantly enhanced my organizational and leadership abilities while offering deep insights into the intricacies of managing academic events internationally. I collaborated closely with faculty members in this role, particularly Professor Samuel Amponsah .

My primary responsibilities included:

? Program Development: Collaborating with Professor Samuel Amponsah and Krishtee Seebaluck to refine the conference themes, identify session chairs and discussants, and develop the schedule.

? Logistics Coordination: Assisting in scheduling discussants for online presentations, communicating conference updates with participants, and updating the conference program on the AFRICAN FINANCE AND ECONOMIC ASSOCIATION ’s website.

This role was instrumental in developing a range of professional skills. Coordinating multiple aspects of the conference simultaneously taught me effective project management techniques, including timeline management and contingency planning. Regular interactions with international stakeholders improved my written and verbal communication skills and taught me the importance of clarity and diplomacy. Addressing unexpected issues, such as last-minute speaker cancellations or technical glitches, enhanced my ability to think on my feet and devise practical solutions under pressure.

I connected with professionals, academics, and peers worldwide, building a network that continues to support my career aspirations. In addition, immersing myself in the planning of the international event deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity and the importance of inclusive practices in academic settings.

After the conference concluded, the sense of accomplishment was immense. Reflecting on the experience, several vital takeaways stood out. Organizing the conference opened doors to new research collaborations and provided a platform to showcase my organizational capabilities, enhancing my academic profile. The feedback received from attendees and speakers offered valuable insights into areas for improvement, informing my approach to future projects.

This experience has profoundly influenced my career trajectory. It underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the power of collective effort in advancing knowledge. As I continue my journey in the Economics discipline, the skills and connections gained from organizing the International Conference will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for future endeavors.

Participating in the organization of an international conference as a graduate fellow was a pivotal chapter in my academic and professional development. It challenged me to grow, adapt, and excel in ways I had not previously imagined. For any graduate fellow considering such an endeavor, I wholeheartedly recommend embracing the opportunity—it is as rewarding as it is demanding, and the lessons learned are invaluable.

Afolabi Balogun

AFRICAN FINANCE AND ECONOMIC ASSOCIATION (AFEA),

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