Speaker Database
Sharing speakers information across the South West u3a Region
There is now a revised process for u3as to provide and share speaker’s information across the South West Region.
There will be two aspects to the database; acquiring data and using it.
Acquiring Data
The speaker secretary or other nominated committee member can download a template in either Excel (.xls) the preferred format or Word (.doc). Details of the talks that the u3a has had since the last submission will be added and the result emailed to the Speaker Database Contact. The information will be added to the database and the updated database uploaded in Excel (.xls) format to the website. Further updates will take place periodically.
Using the Database
When the speaker secretary is preparing their programme for the coming year, they will be able to download the database in Excel (.xls) format. The downloaded version will include the Speakers contact information and comments from u3as where provided.
In Summary, the most important point is that preferably the excel spreadsheet or as a last resort word template needs completing by each individual u3a, preferably the person who organises the monthly meeting speakers. They then send it back to the Speaker Database Contact to consolidate into the database. It will then be posted on the website. It should only contain information about speakers who are known, recommended and members have heard.
Select the Speakers Database button on the Contact page to send your message or query.
Do take a look at the link here: Mirthy - there are lots of great talks available.
Under the 'Links' column is the current Speakers Database Excel (Post 2019) which includes details of talks given virtually and/or face to face.
A Pre 2019 Speakers Database has been retained for reference which details face to face talks only.
Speaker Swap is an initiative to swap talks between interest groups in different u3as.
The intention being to facilitate contact and collaboration across the u3a movement by providing a platform for groups to share their talks with other u3a groups and to receive a talk or workshop in return.
Zoom meetings have allowed us to break geographical boundaries and will make swapping speakers simple and easy.
You can get involved with Speaker Swap by completing the Online Form to join the database.
Please note:
u3a Speaker Secretaries may be interested in the Public Speakers Corner website where they can find many Public / Guest Speakers who may provide suitable talks in their geographical area and at a reasonable cost, some even free.