Once upon a time, there was lots of discussion about the meaning of participatory communications. But for us, it simply means media we do ourselves.
So volunteer participants define the process. They are absolutely essential.
For paid coordinators of a media project, this is worth memorizing. It means the participants are more important than coordinators (a project can happen without a coordinator but not without participants) and should be treated with respect.
This process is inclusive and invites everybody to take part. Generally speaking, we have found that youth seem to take it on more naturally.
Usually, youth are not threatened by the technology and have the energy to catalyze the project.
Partner organizations will, of course, bring their own volunteers. It is advisable to use the chart to identify your participants and assign them jobs.
You must be flexible, however. On the day of the event, you will find many of your volunteers won't show up while others you have never heard of will ask to take part.
Delegate responsibility and let your experienced participants mobilize other participants.
At the event, it's always a good idea to have food and drinks on hand. Think community social rather than professional studio.
Don't forget the musicians. They are not entertainment but rather an essential component of a communication process which includes cultural celebration as a catalyst for discussion of issues.
With musicians, as with all participants, invite "ten times" as many people as you think you will need. People lead busy lives and you can't predict what other things they will have to do on the day of the event.
Finally, don't just rely on emails - use personal communication to contact your participants. Also, try to remind them just before the event itself.
