Whilst I was there, and feeling inspired, I took the chance to do a live google hangout about business, money and luxury!
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Tuesday, 28 April 2015
A day in London; Hyde Park, tea at The Four Seasons & Cocktails at The Ritz
How I love some 5* luxury! So whilst in London for a couple of days to attend a business conference, I had to take the chance to get my 5* fix. What's your luxury fix?!
Whilst I was there, and feeling inspired, I took the chance to do a live google hangout about business, money and luxury!
Whilst I was there, and feeling inspired, I took the chance to do a live google hangout about business, money and luxury!
Sunday, 30 December 2012
2012: The Good, The Bad and The Unplanned
Hello!
I hope you had a magical Christmas time and Santa got you lots of great toys! He was very good to me with lovely perfumes and blingy things. My favourites! How does he know eh?!
I'm just emerging from a few days of completely re-charging my glitter, which means I really, actually, truly did nothing! It was bliddy marvelous. It's so rare I take a few days to do nothing and I really got into the swing of it. And I've just realised that in planning my 2013 diary I forgot to schedule time off - I'm going to correct that right this second....
Right, that's time off booked into next years diary. Now, to look back on 2012!
The Good
I've got all sorts of good from this year!
Here are just a few of my personal favourites:
Speaking at Birmingham Girl Geeks launch event about social media and the 4am Project. Thanks for inviting me ladies! If you are a Girl and a bit of a Geek and you are in, or can get to Birmingham, keep an eye out for their up-coming events.
Celebrating my best friend's 40th Birthday at a haunted cottage in the middle of nowhere in Wales. I still shudder at the ghostly goings on! It was a real country break with just the sound of birds and the neighbours mooing (they were cows, not humans!). I loved the open fire, but not the cobwebs. Part of me would just love to go back there again, and the other part says 'noooooo, it's just toooo scary!'.
Partying with Bugsy Malone at Fat Sam's Grand Slam. Fat Sam knows how to throw a party! I met Bugsy and he let me hold his splurge gun! What a gentleman. He's from NYC so I had a soft spot for him.
Having an Italian adventure in Milan! I had the chance to explore this beautiful city with it's stunning architecture, designer shops, art and of course the stylish people and not forgetting it has the most fabulous graveyard ever! Honestly.
The A.May.Zing month of May! 10 days of working and living in London. I had such an adventure and so many things fell into place. It was just the place I should have been that month. Now it's given me a taste for London and I've been back a few times since and plans to return very soon!
The Bad
This could also go in The Unplanned category, but it was it was more 'bad' than 'unplanned' (not that I planned it!) so it's going here.
Being ill and spending a week in hospital. That was pretty bad. The 'good' is that I am better now. Hurrah!
It took a month out of the year all in all and I resent it for that. And it knocked my confidence in how my body works and also what I could and couldn't eat until I ended up eating the blandest diet ever. Thankfully, I am better and I know I can eat whatever I like again. So, another, Hurrah!
The 'good' for you is that I'm pretty bored of talking about it now, so this'll be the last you hear about it. Unless 1. I get ill again or 2. I feel like I want some sympathy haha.
The Unplanned
I didn't plan 2012 quite well enough. Which in some parts worked out well (Amazing Month Of May and for the Being Ill parts), but that was only by accident. Let me explain.
Earlier in the year I applied for a Clore Fellowship. Naturally I was pretty excited about this, but I also had a feeling that my chances of securing a place would be fairly slim. However, if you don't try for things, you stand no chance at all. What with the time commitment involved in the Fellowship if I had of been successful, and even though I felt my chances were a little slim, I kept the second half of the year free of commitments. In April I got the news that I didn't get a place. I was looking at the rest of the year without as much of a plan as I would ordinarily have liked.
It all worked out in the end and I was able to get back on track with planning but I really think I should have had more of a back up plan. The power of a back up plan should not be underestimated!
FINAL SCORE
I will give 2012 a score of 7/10.
2013, I have very high expectations of you! We are aiming for 10/10!
I hope you had a magical Christmas time and Santa got you lots of great toys! He was very good to me with lovely perfumes and blingy things. My favourites! How does he know eh?!
I'm just emerging from a few days of completely re-charging my glitter, which means I really, actually, truly did nothing! It was bliddy marvelous. It's so rare I take a few days to do nothing and I really got into the swing of it. And I've just realised that in planning my 2013 diary I forgot to schedule time off - I'm going to correct that right this second....
Right, that's time off booked into next years diary. Now, to look back on 2012!
The Good
I've got all sorts of good from this year!
Here are just a few of my personal favourites:
Speaking at Birmingham Girl Geeks launch event about social media and the 4am Project. Thanks for inviting me ladies! If you are a Girl and a bit of a Geek and you are in, or can get to Birmingham, keep an eye out for their up-coming events.
Celebrating my best friend's 40th Birthday at a haunted cottage in the middle of nowhere in Wales. I still shudder at the ghostly goings on! It was a real country break with just the sound of birds and the neighbours mooing (they were cows, not humans!). I loved the open fire, but not the cobwebs. Part of me would just love to go back there again, and the other part says 'noooooo, it's just toooo scary!'.
Partying with Bugsy Malone at Fat Sam's Grand Slam. Fat Sam knows how to throw a party! I met Bugsy and he let me hold his splurge gun! What a gentleman. He's from NYC so I had a soft spot for him.
The A.May.Zing month of May! 10 days of working and living in London. I had such an adventure and so many things fell into place. It was just the place I should have been that month. Now it's given me a taste for London and I've been back a few times since and plans to return very soon!
Being recruited by Brave New Ventures I had no idea what I was getting into or letting myself in for when I was approached by BNV. What a mysterious organisation. I'm still not quite sure what happened!
Enjoying a Great British Seaside Holiday with my fab Mum We toured seaside towns down south and had one sunny day during the week. Hey, you can't go to the beach and not get rained on the the UK. Sandy sandwiches are a must. It's tradition! Thanks for a fab holiday Mum!
Taking the 4am Project event to Nottingham and having 40 amazing photographers turn up despite the torrential rain! I still have to blog about this event, but it was a great challenge to take the project to a new city and make it happen and also team up with the Lakeside Arts Centre and their Saturday Night Sunday Morning exhibition. I'm very grateful to all the photographers who came along and took part in the 4am Project photography challenge given the challenging weather!
Working with the talk about local team! Not just good, but great! However, now it's time to say a fond farewell to the team and take part in new adventures in 2013, which I'll announce shortly. If you ever get a chance to work with any of the tal team, do! If you have an interest in how to use social media from a grass root up perspective, keep an eye on the great work they do in empowering people and communities. It's been a pleasure working with everyone and I'll look forward to the TAL13 conference next year!
The Bad
This could also go in The Unplanned category, but it was it was more 'bad' than 'unplanned' (not that I planned it!) so it's going here.
Being ill and spending a week in hospital. That was pretty bad. The 'good' is that I am better now. Hurrah!
It took a month out of the year all in all and I resent it for that. And it knocked my confidence in how my body works and also what I could and couldn't eat until I ended up eating the blandest diet ever. Thankfully, I am better and I know I can eat whatever I like again. So, another, Hurrah!
The 'good' for you is that I'm pretty bored of talking about it now, so this'll be the last you hear about it. Unless 1. I get ill again or 2. I feel like I want some sympathy haha.
The Unplanned
I didn't plan 2012 quite well enough. Which in some parts worked out well (Amazing Month Of May and for the Being Ill parts), but that was only by accident. Let me explain.
Earlier in the year I applied for a Clore Fellowship. Naturally I was pretty excited about this, but I also had a feeling that my chances of securing a place would be fairly slim. However, if you don't try for things, you stand no chance at all. What with the time commitment involved in the Fellowship if I had of been successful, and even though I felt my chances were a little slim, I kept the second half of the year free of commitments. In April I got the news that I didn't get a place. I was looking at the rest of the year without as much of a plan as I would ordinarily have liked.
It all worked out in the end and I was able to get back on track with planning but I really think I should have had more of a back up plan. The power of a back up plan should not be underestimated!
FINAL SCORE
I will give 2012 a score of 7/10.
2013, I have very high expectations of you! We are aiming for 10/10!
Thank you to everyone who has brought their positivity to the year!
I wish you all the happiness in the world and every success for 2013!
Let's grab it and go out and make our own luck! :)
Friday, 14 December 2012
Iconic London 2012
On the 12th of the 12th of the 12th I went along to the launch of the London Instagramers photography exhibition Iconic London 2012 which is a retrospective of London this year.
The exhibition is on at the Truman Brewery until 16th December so go along this weekend! There are 100's of amazing images of London to be seen and be inspired by. You can get a sneak peek of some of the photographs and the photographers behind them over on the iLondon site.
The exhibition is on at the Truman Brewery until 16th December so go along this weekend! There are 100's of amazing images of London to be seen and be inspired by. You can get a sneak peek of some of the photographs and the photographers behind them over on the iLondon site.
Whilst you are there, strike a pose in the instamgram photo booth!
 |
| Zoe and I - so shy! ;) |
Thanks for a great night! I'm full of instagram inspiration now.
You can find me on instagram here and like ALL my photos ;)
I wanted to make sure I had a memorable day as well as night on 12th December 2012 so I took myself on a photo walk around the city. It was a very chilly day, but I wrapped up and got out there and had a lot of photo fun along the way! Of course I couldn't let a day like 121212 go by without documenting it, so I've recorded it on Storify
It was a fantastic day and night in the Big Smoke. Thanks to everyone who was part of it! :)
Thursday, 20 September 2012
Could you be the Photobox Motographer Of The Year?!
Last night I hopped on a train to London to meet up with some of the Photobox crew and some of the London Instagramers in Brick Lane for the launch of Photobox's Motographer Of The Year Awards 2012.
Motographer? Yes, you read it right! A motographer is a photographer who uses their mobile phone to take their photographs. Mobile phones account for 25% of the digital photos taken these days, and the popular mobile photograph app, Instagram, has hit the 100 million user mark!
Of course there are prizes for the winner of the Motographer Of The Year award. Here's what Photobox has on offer:
A brand new smart phone
The winner will be announced in December.
£500 in Photobox credit
Enrolement in an iPhoneography course
£50 of App store vouchers to spend on motography apps
Access to photography events
And your winning image printed on a mug
It's really easy to take part.
Simply take your winning image and upload it to Twitter, Facebook or Instagram and tag it #MOTY2012
That's it!!
All the entries will be pulled together via the tag and the judging panel will do the rest.
Head over to the Photobox site for more details about the judges and rules of the competition.
Good luck and happy motograph-ing!
Here's my competition entry - just because it was the sweetest little rescue dog with such a gentle nature. Awwwww :)
Say Hello on twitter: @karenstrunks
Monday, 2 July 2012
Secret Cinema: The big Brave New Ventures reveal!
The day has finally arrived and I can finally reveal the film behind my Brave New Ventures mission! Whew and yay!
A message from Brave New Ventures HQ
I won't keep you in suspense a moment longer! Can't see the video? Check it out here
Yes, the Brave New Ventures film was........ Ridley Scott's Prometheus!!
The above video looks amazing, and let me tell you it was every bit as exciting and dynamic at the event itself.
I think it's safe to put up a few of my photos, but the one of me in a boiler suit will NEVER see the light of day!
I just had to stop mid writing and watch the video again!
I have never been so engaged and interested in a trip to the cinema.
It started back in May when I was recruited to become a Chief Information Officer for Brave New Ventures. But it wasn't just some email saying 'You've been recruited' and 'turn up on such and such a date'. There was intrigue, there was correspondence, there were missions to complete before full recruitment. Friends and followers were asking me what it was all about and I genuinely had no idea. Of course I was curious enough to just go with the flow, and to take part even though I wasn't sure what I was letting myself in for!
Brave New Cinema had ALL the basis covered in terms of communication and participation. They used social media, they gathered a community; We were on a mission, though we didn't know what mission! We were in it together. Whatever 'it' was!
They created a buzz. Not just online, but offline as well. They hit the streets and amazingly gathered over 400 recruits in the heart of London.
And in the black of night, brave souls took part in some secret data analysis.
We were told what clothes to wear, we were told about items we must bring. We were running about doing as we were told, still without a clue as to why!
This was a far cry from just checking into a cinema on Foursquare. In fact, we didn't even know our final destination until about 10 minutes before hand. By then I think it's safe to say, we were all far too engrossed in events to even think about Foursquare!
This was a perfectly masterminded exercise in mass participation and was so carefully crafted and orchestrated and took in practically every medium of communication. You really felt like you part of a bigger collaboration.
Even BEFORE the point of buying a ticket, people had been engaged and 'recruited'. Participants were taking a leap of faith as they didn't know what they were actually buying a ticket for exactly. In fact, they didn't buy a ticket, they 'invested' in Brave New Ventures and were playing a part in 'securing the future'.
By employing all these methods, how far did the word spread about BNV and Secret Cinema? Not only did the press pick up on it, which is no surprise, but the amount of discussion and guess work that was happening on and offline would have been monumental!
This was never going to be a case of selling seats in a cinema. It was about creating something memorable, (I'm still talking about it now!), interactive, social, virtual, offline and collaborative.
I know that going to my local cinema will never be the same again.
Thank you SECRET CINEMA!
Say hello on twitter: @karenstrunks :)
A message from Brave New Ventures HQ
The missions are over, the recruits demobilised and the cat, ladies and gentleman, is out of the bag. As you may or may not have heard or experienced, the project that Brave New Ventures and Secret Cinema have been working on these past weeks was Ridley Scott’s Alien prequel Prometheus. This has been the production of a lifetime, and we would like to thank all recruits for assisting in making it what it was. We’ve created a video giving more information on our missions. Enjoy
I won't keep you in suspense a moment longer! Can't see the video? Check it out here
Yes, the Brave New Ventures film was........ Ridley Scott's Prometheus!!
The above video looks amazing, and let me tell you it was every bit as exciting and dynamic at the event itself.
I think it's safe to put up a few of my photos, but the one of me in a boiler suit will NEVER see the light of day!
 |
| Getting ready for the event. I thought I might have got away with this outfit and not be made to wear a boiler suit! No luck :D |
 |
| The cocktail makers where BNV robots |
 |
| Testing Samples from Outside |
 |
| Currency Exchange |
 |
| Waiting to embark on our mission |
 |
| Brave New Ventures HQ |
 |
| BNV worker |
I just had to stop mid writing and watch the video again!
I have never been so engaged and interested in a trip to the cinema.
It started back in May when I was recruited to become a Chief Information Officer for Brave New Ventures. But it wasn't just some email saying 'You've been recruited' and 'turn up on such and such a date'. There was intrigue, there was correspondence, there were missions to complete before full recruitment. Friends and followers were asking me what it was all about and I genuinely had no idea. Of course I was curious enough to just go with the flow, and to take part even though I wasn't sure what I was letting myself in for!
Brave New Cinema had ALL the basis covered in terms of communication and participation. They used social media, they gathered a community; We were on a mission, though we didn't know what mission! We were in it together. Whatever 'it' was!
They created a buzz. Not just online, but offline as well. They hit the streets and amazingly gathered over 400 recruits in the heart of London.
And in the black of night, brave souls took part in some secret data analysis.
We were told what clothes to wear, we were told about items we must bring. We were running about doing as we were told, still without a clue as to why!
This was a far cry from just checking into a cinema on Foursquare. In fact, we didn't even know our final destination until about 10 minutes before hand. By then I think it's safe to say, we were all far too engrossed in events to even think about Foursquare!
This was a perfectly masterminded exercise in mass participation and was so carefully crafted and orchestrated and took in practically every medium of communication. You really felt like you part of a bigger collaboration.
Even BEFORE the point of buying a ticket, people had been engaged and 'recruited'. Participants were taking a leap of faith as they didn't know what they were actually buying a ticket for exactly. In fact, they didn't buy a ticket, they 'invested' in Brave New Ventures and were playing a part in 'securing the future'.
By employing all these methods, how far did the word spread about BNV and Secret Cinema? Not only did the press pick up on it, which is no surprise, but the amount of discussion and guess work that was happening on and offline would have been monumental!
This was never going to be a case of selling seats in a cinema. It was about creating something memorable, (I'm still talking about it now!), interactive, social, virtual, offline and collaborative.
I know that going to my local cinema will never be the same again.
Thank you SECRET CINEMA!
Say hello on twitter: @karenstrunks :)
Monday, 11 June 2012
Amazing Month Of May
A May Zing!
Back in March, when I was reviewing my 2012 goals, I blogged about how I was going to make the month of May a month for me.
And that is exactly what I did. I made no plans. None. I blocked the days out in my google calendar with a firm NO, just in case I was tempted to start filling up the blanks in my diary, or start taking on requests for my time.
I booked the first week of the month off work, and for the rest of the month my only commitment was to my work at talk about local.
Let me tell you, this was one of the best things I've done!
I can't believe how well my plan to not plan worked out!
For the last few years I have kept a very tight reign on my schedule, work, how I spend my time, where I spend it, with who. My diary is normally full for a couple of months in advance. I've made more time for work and projects and self development than I have friends, chilling out and 'going with the flow'.
I had nothing planned for May and yet so much happened!
Actually, nothing much happened in the first week lol. I just chilled, pottered, watched films, read..... that thing called Relaxing.
But after that, things started to seemingly fall right into place. A random encounter gave me the opportunity to stay in London for 10 days. Why not?! As long as I'm online I can do my work.
I was determined to make the most of every minute.
I went to the Tuttle Club, which inspired the Birmingham Social Media Cafe
I was invited to meet the Rabbits in their warren in South Kensington
The Rabbits introduced me to Socialcam and I made my first video..
I checked out the Natural History Museum
And I met up with one of my oldest friends (25 years I've known him, and I deserve a medal!). We went to the British Museum, and then checked out Soho and tons of shops.
A Facebook conversation with my best friend from school in Ireland. We were the bestest of friends from about 9-13. We had so much fun back then and all we did was laugh and laugh....
Friend: Hey, are you in London? If so, how long for? Would love to see you!
Me: Yes! That would be ace. I'll message you my number :)
Friend: Hey, brilliant. I will call you tomorrow. Maybe Wednesday evening? Where are you staying?
Me: Great! Tomorrow eve would be good. I'm in Stoke Newington
Friend: You are joking??? That's where I live. Xxxxx Road.
Me: No wayyyyy! I'm staying on that road!!
We were literally 2 mins away from each other on the same street! I couldn't believe it!!
If I hadn't kept the month of May clear I wouldn't have had the chance to stay in London. If I hadn't stayed in London, I wouldn't have been re-united with my best friend, who was living on the same street as me!
We met up the next day and as soon as we met we were laughing and laughing just like we used to. And it just so happened that she was having a family party the following weekend (last weekend) and her Mum and Dad were coming over from Ireland. Her parents are ace her Dad used to teach English in our school.I couldn't miss the chance to see her parents and the rest of her family and so I went back to London last weekend and had a jolly Jubilee time! I storify'd my Jubilee Weekend adventures.
And it just so happened that I got an invitation for the Brave New Ventures event for the same weekend, so that fitted in really well and I was able to go to that and it was amazing!
I had an awesome time in London. Here's a few other pics and things from my time there...
So all this non-planning and just allowing 'life' to happen was really, (much to my surprise), rewarding!
What's that saying? Life is what happens when you stop making plans? It's certainly felt this way.
I think this is a great point in the year to have a think about the rest of 2012.
Because I didn't get a place on the Clore Fellowship Programme, I have the rest of the year quite clear. (I kept my diary clear just in case I got a place).
I've had a good taste of London and I LOVE IT! It's given me the Big City Fix that I have been craving since NYC. It's obviously not New York City, but it has the potential to meet a lot of my needs, and at least it's closer and more achievable than New York. Not that I am letting go of my NYC goal by any means, but London could be a good step in the meantime.
It's actually been great to have FREE TIME! I've not let myself have any, or at least a good chunk of it, for a few years and I had really forgotten what it was like. I've tried to keep Sundays as Me-Days, but other than that I've kept myself so busy. May has given me the chance to just enjoy things at a different pace and join in with life as it happens instead of trying to control every minute of every day. It's been quite liberating, and perhaps there is room for me to go with the flow a bit more....
So, thank you May! And thank you to everyone who made it awesome!
Say Hello on twitter! @karenstrunks
Subscribe in a reader
Back in March, when I was reviewing my 2012 goals, I blogged about how I was going to make the month of May a month for me.
And that is exactly what I did. I made no plans. None. I blocked the days out in my google calendar with a firm NO, just in case I was tempted to start filling up the blanks in my diary, or start taking on requests for my time.
I booked the first week of the month off work, and for the rest of the month my only commitment was to my work at talk about local.
Let me tell you, this was one of the best things I've done!
I can't believe how well my plan to not plan worked out!
For the last few years I have kept a very tight reign on my schedule, work, how I spend my time, where I spend it, with who. My diary is normally full for a couple of months in advance. I've made more time for work and projects and self development than I have friends, chilling out and 'going with the flow'.
I had nothing planned for May and yet so much happened!
Actually, nothing much happened in the first week lol. I just chilled, pottered, watched films, read..... that thing called Relaxing.
But after that, things started to seemingly fall right into place. A random encounter gave me the opportunity to stay in London for 10 days. Why not?! As long as I'm online I can do my work.
Getting ready to set off on my London Break! 10 days working/living in the Big Smoke. Quite excited!
— karenstrunks (@karenstrunks) May 17, 2012
I was determined to make the most of every minute.
I went to the Tuttle Club, which inspired the Birmingham Social Media Cafe
I was invited to meet the Rabbits in their warren in South Kensington
Lovely to meet up with the Rabbits! This is Zoe & me & a singing moose who has lost his voice :) [pic]: 4sq.com/JBKSnu
— karenstrunks (@karenstrunks) May 18, 2012
The Rabbits introduced me to Socialcam and I made my first video..
I checked out the Natural History Museum
I met up with David Mellor and had wonderful cocktails at the fabulous Paramount Soho. It's my new favourite cocktail place. Make sure you book yourself in, even if it's just for cocktails. The stunning views over London from the 38th floor are worth it. It was then I had my first 'NYC' feeling! Something, I've been craving for such a long time!
 |
| Thank you for the copy of your book David! |
And then THIS happened....
Well aint it a small world! Reuniting with very dear friends in London this week :) #ksldn
— karenstrunks (@karenstrunks) May 22, 2012
I dont normally give credit to luck/fate/good timing, but today has been one of those days when I might have to give them tiny bit of credit
— karenstrunks (@karenstrunks) May 22, 2012
A Facebook conversation with my best friend from school in Ireland. We were the bestest of friends from about 9-13. We had so much fun back then and all we did was laugh and laugh....
Friend: Hey, are you in London? If so, how long for? Would love to see you!
Me: Yes! That would be ace. I'll message you my number :)
Friend: Hey, brilliant. I will call you tomorrow. Maybe Wednesday evening? Where are you staying?
Me: Great! Tomorrow eve would be good. I'm in Stoke Newington
Friend: You are joking??? That's where I live. Xxxxx Road.
Me: No wayyyyy! I'm staying on that road!!
We were literally 2 mins away from each other on the same street! I couldn't believe it!!
If I hadn't kept the month of May clear I wouldn't have had the chance to stay in London. If I hadn't stayed in London, I wouldn't have been re-united with my best friend, who was living on the same street as me!
We met up the next day and as soon as we met we were laughing and laughing just like we used to. And it just so happened that she was having a family party the following weekend (last weekend) and her Mum and Dad were coming over from Ireland. Her parents are ace her Dad used to teach English in our school.I couldn't miss the chance to see her parents and the rest of her family and so I went back to London last weekend and had a jolly Jubilee time! I storify'd my Jubilee Weekend adventures.
And it just so happened that I got an invitation for the Brave New Ventures event for the same weekend, so that fitted in really well and I was able to go to that and it was amazing!
I had an awesome time in London. Here's a few other pics and things from my time there...
So all this non-planning and just allowing 'life' to happen was really, (much to my surprise), rewarding!
What's that saying? Life is what happens when you stop making plans? It's certainly felt this way.
I think this is a great point in the year to have a think about the rest of 2012.
Because I didn't get a place on the Clore Fellowship Programme, I have the rest of the year quite clear. (I kept my diary clear just in case I got a place).
I've had a good taste of London and I LOVE IT! It's given me the Big City Fix that I have been craving since NYC. It's obviously not New York City, but it has the potential to meet a lot of my needs, and at least it's closer and more achievable than New York. Not that I am letting go of my NYC goal by any means, but London could be a good step in the meantime.
It's actually been great to have FREE TIME! I've not let myself have any, or at least a good chunk of it, for a few years and I had really forgotten what it was like. I've tried to keep Sundays as Me-Days, but other than that I've kept myself so busy. May has given me the chance to just enjoy things at a different pace and join in with life as it happens instead of trying to control every minute of every day. It's been quite liberating, and perhaps there is room for me to go with the flow a bit more....
So, thank you May! And thank you to everyone who made it awesome!
Say Hello on twitter! @karenstrunks
Subscribe in a reader
Thursday, 7 June 2012
Brave New Ventures: Mission Report
You may already know that recently I was recruited by Brave New Ventures as Chief Information Officer.
The date of Monday 4th June had been set as the date for me to complete my secret mission for BNV.
In order to be fully prepared for whatever tasks may be waiting I arrived in London a couple of days earlier, under the guise of a visitor for the Jubilee....
My stealth paid off and I went by undiscovered as a BNV agent as I took in the sights and sounds of London.
The day of my mission had finally arrived! I could barely sleep for excitement the night before.
I unpacked my uniform...
I was allowed to bring an assistant with me.
We were given the opportunity to exchange our currency so that we could make purchases when we were through to the other side.
What you will find is a multi-storied 190,000 square foot area that is yours to explore! You will discover something new at every turn.
The BNV staff will make sure you are kept busy too. Expect to be given tasks to complete, and missions to execute. Remember why you are there...it is your mission to secure the future!
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The date of Monday 4th June had been set as the date for me to complete my secret mission for BNV.
In order to be fully prepared for whatever tasks may be waiting I arrived in London a couple of days earlier, under the guise of a visitor for the Jubilee....
My stealth paid off and I went by undiscovered as a BNV agent as I took in the sights and sounds of London.
The day of my mission had finally arrived! I could barely sleep for excitement the night before.
I unpacked my uniform...
I don't normally wear t-shirts, so did my best to glam it up a little!
I was allowed to bring an assistant with me.
On tonight's @Bravenewventure mission I am being ably assisted by @joannageary. I only have the best on my team! #bravenewventures :)
— karenstrunks (@karenstrunks) June 4, 2012
Our rendezvous point was by the statue of the engineer at Euston station. Gathered en masse were fellow recruits ready for their BNV mission, many of who were dressed in boiler suits and boots. They looked hard core! I began to wonder if my skirt, t-shirt and bling combo would cut it!
We were led by BNV staff to the Head Quarters where there was a lot of serious activity going on.
My worst fears soon immediately materialise when I was handed A BOILER SUIT TO PUT ON!! (can you imagine?!) There is photographic evidence of this, but it will never see the light of day, will it Joanna?!
Everyone complied with the orders and instructions that were being given by BNV staff. We were dressed how they wanted us dressed, tagged with wrist bands, and queueing in an ordering manner.
We were given the opportunity to exchange our currency so that we could make purchases when we were through to the other side.
And what is the other side like?!
Like nothing you will have experienced before!
London felt like a million miles away.
What you will find is a multi-storied 190,000 square foot area that is yours to explore! You will discover something new at every turn.
Well, I hope that has answered your questions and enlightened you about Brave New Ventures
What do you mean, no?!
Okay, let me snap out of character! *snap*
I'll try and fill you in, but I will have to leave some details for you to find out for yourself...
Brave New Ventures is a fictional company of Secret Cinema, which is part of Future Cinema (remember I went to see Bugsy Malone with Future Cinema?)
It was easy to forget during my mission that we were there to see a film. The set that has been created is not only huge, it's immersive. You will spend a good couple of hours getting involved in the film that you are going to watch later!
What film?! I'll pretend you didn't ask me that. It's a secret, remember!
But by the time you settle down and watch the movie you will have met all the characters, and will have lived through what some of them live through in the film.
Can you tell us any more?!
Yes. Go, go, go!! You really won't have had a cinema experience like this! This is one of Secret Cinema's biggest productions yet, and it won't disappoint. The event lasts about 4.5-5 hours. This isn't just watching a film, this is playing a role in the film, on an amazing set, with actors and other BNV 'employees', all working together on the same mission!
A few tips....
- There are several bars there, and they serve lovely cocktails as well a spirits, cider and beer
- Wear flat shoes
- Don't wear too many layers - you will be too warm.
- You can buy a meal there if you are hungry, and if you are both hungry and feeling extravagant you can got to the Secret Restaurant with food from top chefs and flowing champagne.
A big Thank You to Secret Cinema for a night to remember!
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Friday, 25 May 2012
I have been recruited by Brave New Ventures
Update: Friday 1st June
My Brave New Venture mission has been confirmed.
I have received my uniform in the post. I shall wear it with pride!
I will do my very best and report back here next week. Watch this space!
Update: Tues 29th May
I have received notice that I have been awarded the rank of Chief Information Officer for Brave New Ventures.
I have been rather busy this month in one way or another* and since my last post it appears I have been head hunted by Brave New Ventures.
Next, this letter
"Crucial to humanity itself!"
Well, I mean....that's quite important. How can I reject BNV's approach?! And they obviously need my skills, strength of character and adaptability.
I checked them out and found a video about them. A very polished video that raises more questions than it answers.
They 'build the future'!
We all need a future, I'm happy to play a small part in ensuring that we have one.
I successfully completed a secret mission. Don't ask me what it was! I can't tell you. And remember, it's all for the good of the future!
Then I received this communication from Brave New Ventures.
Guess what I've gone and done....?! Yep, I've proceeded. I'm in this thing to deep already! It feels like it's too late to turn back.
If you can find out more about BNV than I have managed to so far, please let me know! I see that Brave New Ventures have a Corporate Hub where they are asking people to enroll. Maybe YOU have what they are looking for?!
*This is May Me Month**
**May Me Month is the month I have kept free just for me!! I took the first week of May off work completely, and didn't plan a thing, and I have made no commitments for the rest of the month***
***To be blogged about ;)
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My Brave New Venture mission has been confirmed.
I have received my uniform in the post. I shall wear it with pride!
"THE CORPORATION HAS FAITH IN YOU. LEAD ON."
I will do my very best and report back here next week. Watch this space!
Update: Tues 29th May
I have received notice that I have been awarded the rank of Chief Information Officer for Brave New Ventures.
"Your work in spreading the message of Brave New Ventures has been nothing short of exemplary, demonstrating extraordinary initiative, ability and passion for the project of which we are all but a small part.
Working at Brave New Ventures is not always easy. On occasion we are tasked with objectives that stretch us to our limits. You have passed every test assigned to you, and it is for this reason that we are pleased to confirm your role as Chief Information Officer.
Congratulations"
There still remains further induction and as such I have been summoned to London this week. Wish me luck with my mission!
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I have been rather busy this month in one way or another* and since my last post it appears I have been head hunted by Brave New Ventures.
@karenstrunks We are your friends, Karen. To learn more about a role within #BraveNewVentures, respond 'yes' to this tweet. Thank you
— Brave New Ventures (@Bravenewventure) May 18, 2012
“@Bravenewventure We are your friends, Karen. To learn more about a role within #BraveNewVentures respond 'yes' to this tweet” < erm yes?How intriguing.....
— karenstrunks (@karenstrunks) May 18, 2012
Next, this letter
Dear Candidate,
We are contacting you to inform you that
you have been identified as a potential target for a crucial role within
Brave New Ventures.
Firstly, congratulations. Our
identification process relies on a number of behavioural and suitability
metrics. To have reached this stage is testament to your strength of
character, adaptability and ability to communicate. Although you are not
yet part of Brave New Ventures, very few candidates reach this stage.
We are contacting you regarding a role
that is of utmost importance to the continued operation of Brave New
Ventures. The success of our maiden
voyage is crucial not only to our investors, but to humanity itself. It
is imperative, therefore, that we find the right candidate for each and
every position. If you prove your aptitude for this task, this role
could be yours.
"Crucial to humanity itself!"
Well, I mean....that's quite important. How can I reject BNV's approach?! And they obviously need my skills, strength of character and adaptability.
I checked them out and found a video about them. A very polished video that raises more questions than it answers.
They 'build the future'!
We all need a future, I'm happy to play a small part in ensuring that we have one.
I successfully completed a secret mission. Don't ask me what it was! I can't tell you. And remember, it's all for the good of the future!
Then I received this communication from Brave New Ventures.
Aptitude Stage One is complete. If you are receiving
this message it is because you have been moved into Aptitude Stage Two.
Congratulations, not many make it to this stage.
To have passed the
initial stage, you have displayed outstanding ability and talent in spreading the message of Brave New Ventures. We thank you.
Stage Two is the final phase before you
are a fully qualified Chief Information Officer. Although 9 job roles
have been made open to the public, CIO is the only role for which we are
carrying out targeted recruitment. Once you have qualified as our CIO,
you will be rewarded. This will be discussed upon completion of Stage
Two.
In order for you to progress to Stage Two,
you will need to display discretion, restraint and above all loyalty to
Brave New Ventures. If you feel as if these qualities are beyond you,
please do not read beyond this point.
Guess what I've gone and done....?! Yep, I've proceeded. I'm in this thing to deep already! It feels like it's too late to turn back.
If you can find out more about BNV than I have managed to so far, please let me know! I see that Brave New Ventures have a Corporate Hub where they are asking people to enroll. Maybe YOU have what they are looking for?!
Within us is the power to change our world. We seek to harness that power for the good of mankind #BraveNewVenturesIf you decide to enroll, then I wish you GOOD LUCK!
— Brave New Ventures (@Bravenewventure) May 25, 2012
*This is May Me Month**
**May Me Month is the month I have kept free just for me!! I took the first week of May off work completely, and didn't plan a thing, and I have made no commitments for the rest of the month***
***To be blogged about ;)
Follow @karenstrunks
Subscribe in a reader
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