Facilitation and Learning Design for MAD Academy's Pilot Program.
This video is from a later cohort of the MAD Academy
Context
MAD Academy, founded by René Redzepi of Restaurant Noma and executive director Melina Shannon-DiPietro, is a hub for hospitality professionals seeking to drive positive change in their businesses and the world. As a facilitator specializing in facilitation and learning design, I was invited to contribute to MAD Academy's groundbreaking pilot program in 2019.
Journey
As a facilitator and learning designer for MAD Academy's pilot program, I worked with MAD and their guest lecturers to align around the academy's four pillars:
Expert Insight: The program featured curated sessions featuring luminaries such as world-renowned chefs Matt Orlando and Rene Redzepi, Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, Aarstiderne founder Thomas Harttung, Sticks ’n’ Sushi founder Kim Rahbek, and Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. These provided participants with groundbreaking perspectives, deep knowledge, and infectious enthusiasm.
Effective Techniques: The program integrated real-world-ready tools that participants could immediately apply. Each tool was adaptable to the diverse roles and organizations within the hospitality industry.
Expansive Mindsets: Emphasizing clear thinking and conscious choices, the program guided participants in clarifying their paths forward. It equipped them with the resources to achieve their ambitions, fostering a mindset geared for lasting positive change.
Enduring Networks: The program helped create a dynamic international community through facilitated interactions and knowledge exchange. This network allows MAD Academy alumni to continue drawing on shared experiences and perspectives for ongoing opportunities and learning experiences.
Results
As a result of this collaborative effort, participants acquired new skills and cultivated a mindset ready for impactful leadership. The pilot program successfully transformed learning experiences, providing participants the tools and inspiration to drive positive change in their respective roles and organizations.
“Thomas was very adaptable and present in the process design of the very first version of the MAD Academy program. As a facilitator, he ensured the creation of a very cohesive group, which created a great environment for learning and friends for life. ”