A group from the European Young Chemists Network on the canals of Aveiro, Portugal

There’s something inspiring about meeting three dozen bright young European scientists who – despite some healthy debate – are now all pulling in one direction: to try to raise the profile of the European Young Chemists Network as thought leaders.

I presented them with some cool tools to help guide their discussions and debate and the final product of the session was a framework with claims they want to make to potential sponsors and members, as well as media and other stakeholders in the non-profit organization, about the essential contribution they are making as a group.

As part of the European Chemists and Molecular Scientists Society, these young chemists represented their national groups at the Delegates Assembly in Aveiro, Portugal, from 6-9 May.

Cold, driving rain throughout most of the conference encouraged active participation in indoor activities, like the business sessions and workshops. A stronger, more cohesive group ended the conference with a social event – an informal boat race around the canals that have earned Aveiro the title “The Venice of Portugal.”

Does your company, team or non-profit group need to master some of the tools of thought leadership and apply them to your own particular situation? Ask, assess, then act.