New Beginnings, Green out of the Blue

I have always loved the creative process of designing, shaping and curating shows, conferences, debate programs and roundtables with a purpose. My driving force is to connect with influential and notable voices with vision and passion to make the world a better place. From the legendary Al Gore and Arnold Schwarzenegger to climate advocates like Nina Jensen and tech savvy Inga Strümke , top athletes like Joshua King Football Camp and the premiers in arts like Ingrid Lorentzen at The Norwegian Opera and Ballet All of them genuinely engaged in combatting climate change, preventing environmental destruction, social inequality or unleashing new beginnings through the power of art. Over many years I have had the honor of having these remarkable people and so many more on stage and in partnerships.

Coming closer

As we venture into 2025, I am happy to tell that a new program in this spirit is launched and will be ramped up, namely CloseUp at The Conduit Oslo , co-created with my partner in L.A., the wonderful creative director and writer Tonje Kristiansen in collaboration with the uniquely connected Dilek Ayhan . Our first guest, Norsk rikskringkasting (NRK) ′s award winning Middle East Correspondent Yama Wolasmal , told his deeply moving story from first-hand experiences in war and conflict areas. The premiere of CloseUp was conducted with a fully packed audience where we delved into world affairs. We are excited to shortly announce our 4th & 5th shows with famously influential guests in February. Stay tuned!

Our aspiration is to explore, learn and discuss vital issues with people from various environments, enable connectivity, personal growth and societal change. We will showcase the work of investors who understand the high potential of impact investing and be inspired by young leaders entering the world stage in business, politics, arts, sports and culture.

The thrill of taking risks

I have always also loved being on the move, as I am curious to discover, analyze and be a part of what′s next. Five years ago, I decided to do this as an entrepreneurial and independent business leader, coming from many years at executive level in global companies and key media houses in Norway. I enjoy being out of my comfort zone much more than expected, even with risk taking and the anxiety that follows. I believe passion, dedication and stamina will be key words in a challenging, conflict ridden and turbulent world. Let′s never give up, let′s give in. A natural next step for me will be leadership and direct involvement in venture capital environments, ocean hubs, tech- and impact investing. For relevant companies, I will target either BoD′s or Advisory Board assignments.

Mobilizing and engaging youth

I want to take this opportunity at the year′s end to gratefully thank my partners in Debattene om Norges Fremtid , who have been committed to our 3 year impactful democracy roadshow program since 2021. We have covered some huge topics across Norway, spanning from the brutal war in Ukraine and saving the seas to young people struggling with mental health issues, stagnant public policies as well as the potential in generative AI. The Debates about Norway′s Future has been awarded with first prizes both in Norway for significant contribution to society and at the prestigious BEA World Festival in Rome 2022.? Huge tribute goes to the founding fathers, Johan H. Andresen Morten Borge and Knut Olav ?m?s and to the partners; Ferd AS , Stiftelsen Fritt Ord , Norges forskningsr?d Amedia , and the talented creative team in Fieldwork AS .

During the next phase, engaging youth in democratic and global challenges will be even more emphasized. Personally, my ambition is to champion more green out of the blue, by liaising with the next generation of change makers.

Be in touch if you want to collaborate or book me as your host, moderator or strategic and creative director of events and conferences through www.benteengesland.com.

Best wishes for the New Year with New Beginnings.

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