Author: Lisa Gryzagoridis, PMP, DASM 
Dear Readers,
Welcome to another enriching edition of our monthly newsletter!
As we navigate through July and August 2024, this issue brings you an abundance of expert insights, inspiring stories and valuable opportunities that underline the dynamic world of project management.
With just over half of 2024 behind us, the PMI Switzerland Chapter has prepared to deliver an exciting second half of the year and assures you that 'the best is yet to come'. With less than 2 months until the PM Conference 2024, the volunteers are ramping up to deliver a spectacular event. The team is enthusiastically levelling up across all elements, and I, for one, am extremely excited to participate in this flagship event.
For those eager to connect with peers and leaders, make sure to secure your spot at what promises to be an enlightening gathering of minds, enthusiastic about innovations and trends within the project management field. Should you wish to know more about what's on offer, this edition offers two articles to whet your appetite.
We bring you an exclusive interview with Pia Henzelmann, the PM Conference 2024 Lead, wherein she shares some behind-the-scenes information, along with her insights on what makes this year's conference a must-attend event. Readers can also expect some teasers on some of the ground-breaking ideas that will be showcased.
Further PM Conference information can be gleaned from Joanna Keller's article, in which the conference program is announced, as well as special offers, including an invitation to the PM Conference LinkedIn Networking Group.
Readers will also hear from our VP of Sponsors & Partners, Mafalda Amaro, in this month's Message from the Board. She delves into the strategic vision that continues to steer the Social Impact Team's endeavours towards remarkable achievements in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
To illustrate the nature of the Social Impact Team's influence within the CSR domain, Isabelle Novarrez shares the team's latest initiative. In an impactful feature titled Project Management Mentorship for NGOs - The Project Suicide in Pakistan, she details vital mentorship to address the daunting challenges of NGOs. This piece not only sheds light on the critical need for structured project management in humanitarian efforts, but also highlights the life-changing impacts such projects have on communities.
This edition also showcases a retrospective of the first Agile Community of Practice (CoP) session, hosted as Swissquote. At this session, Antonio Morisco delivered his insights on optimising Value Stream Management, and how leveraging VSM could revolutionise how you run your projects.
Lastly, the chapter announces the initiation of the 2025-2026 election process. We encourage all members to participate actively in this crucial undertaking, as it shapes the future of our institution.
We hope that you find this combined July and August Newsletter stimulating and informative, and that these pages inspire you to create a blueprint for future success. Happy reading!
Best regards,
Lisa