Hello everyone!

The plane ticket is booked, routes have been mapped out - yup, I'm headed to sunny Cali, final destination: N2Y4.

I'm beyond thrilled to get a chance to (finally!) attend the conference in person, and get the valuable opportunity to meet many of you in person. (In our hyperconnected age, that 'in person' bit never gets old!)  

So to get into the spirit, as suggested, here's a brief bio about yours truly:

I work for the uber-cool NABUUR: a Dutch foundation and online volunteering platform that links online volunteers from all over the world to projects led by communities in developing countries.  (Shameless plug: watch the video on our homepage to see what we - and what you can - do.)

My role at NABUUR is of Online Communities Manager (which encompasses many exciting layers - just ask me!) and it's been the most rewarding professional position I've ever held. I've made friendships for life, have amassed an incredible amount of learning lessons (through both stumbling blocks and high-five moments), and ultimately, it's led me to the point where I am today. And yes, I know exactly how fortunate I am to say that.

On the side, I'm involved with other organizations (Amnesty Intl., Social Actions, etc.); do some writing and blogging; enjoy reading, photography, art, music, and having insightful conversations over steaming cups of coffee.

Oh, and I'm also putting together pieces to a new project called Youth Campaigners Toronto: regular meetups for Toronto-based youth activists. If it's piqued your interest, click here to read more about it (and drop me a line to get involved!).

What do I hope to get out of N2Y4? Tons. As in copious amount of knowledge that I can then apply to my job and volunteer involvement. Of particular interest is any and all topics relating to the big umbrella of social media; online and offline engagement tools and methods; tips and tricks of online storytelling; metrics...You get the point. If you spot a set of wide eyes and a 'kid in a candy store' look - that'll be me.

And it goes without saying that I also want to meet You. During the past year, I've interacted with amazing individuals whose work, philosophies and attitudes have served as inspiration and teaching lessons. Whether our work paths have crossed, or whether we're even in the same sphere of mandates, let's chat. The best conversations, and takeaways, are sometimes the unscripted and unplanned ones.

This will be a blast. See you there!

Romina
romi.oliverio@gmail.com
Twitter: @romioliverio