The Feedback Night: Unleashing Innovation at Lisbon's Mid-Semester Event

This article was written by José Livério, President of the Lisbon Branch during the Autumn of 2024, and current Operations Specialist at the GLT for AMER.

Picture this: A room buzzing with energy, minds racing with ideas, at Católica-Lisbon, the only university in Portugal with an 180 DC branch. Welcome to the Feedback Night, one of the main events of the semester of Lisbon's 180 DC branch.

Every semester all the consulting teams have to prepare an 8-minute presentation, showcasing their project progress and unveil their next steps. This highly anticipated event, brings together all members of the club — including the executive team, partners and alumni.This vibrant event takes place midway through the semester, right after exams, and lasts 90 to 120 minutes. The Feedback Night is organised into four dynamic segments:

1. The Grand Opening: The President opens the event, followed by the Executive Team presentation on the work developed internally;
2. Project Showcase: Each team presents their unique project with a clear structure;
3. Feedback Frenzy: Senior students and consulting professionals share their feedback on specific projects; and
4. Wisdom Exchange: To close the event, everyone present is invited to share any lesson learned through the feedback provided.

The event begins with a message from the President, followed by presentations from the executive team about their work this semester. Each consulting team then takes the stage to share their carefully prepared projects, outlining the scope, progress, next steps, and key lessons learned.

After the presentations, the next phase begins. Teams are paired with experienced professionals—alumni and consultants—who provide fresh, unbiased feedback. In quick 10-minute sessions, these mentors share insights and challenge the teams' ideas, drawing on their work and consulting experience. This process allows students to gain valuable perspectives from outside their immediate circle, challenging the students to think outside the box and sometimes, to have a more practical approach towards problem-solving.

This semester's projects highlight the branch's diverse focus. Teams have worked on a two-year strategy for internal growth, helped the Portuguese Red Cross adjust its volunteering opportunities, and collaborated with Portuguese Cáritas and the emerging NGO Multiplica.

Consulting Director Luca Peiser and Project Manager Lena Raupach are leading an important project for the Portuguese Red Cross (PRC) that focuses on the changing landscape of volunteering. Their analysis has uncovered key insights about what motivates volunteers today, revealing a strong desire for roles that provide meaningful impact, opportunities for skill development, and flexible arrangements.

The project also highlights emerging priorities such as mental health support, disaster preparedness, and intergenerational volunteering. These findings align with the Global Red Cross Strategy 2030, which aims to strengthen community resilience and adaptability.

The recommendations from this project offer practical steps for the PRC to enhance volunteer engagement, improve retention rates, and increase community impact while addressing the evolving demographic and societal challenges in Portugal. 

As the evening comes to a close, all teams and the executive team gather for a final session to share valuable lessons learned. This reflection strengthens connections and enhances everyone's understanding. After this discussion, participants will take a group photo before enjoying a well-deserved dinner.

This was just a glimpse into some of the work of the Lisbon branch during the fall semester of 2024. If you were interested in knowing more about this event or want to learn more about the Lisbon Branch and their projects, please reach out via Instagram at "lisbon180degreesconsulting" - this branch is just one DM away!

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