Empowering Gen Z Voices: Southeast Asia Digital Creators Retreat
February 28 - March 2, 2025 | Bangkok, Thailand
Organized by the Digital Communication Network and its new media, Gen Zette, this retreat is crafted for Gen Z digital creators across Southeast Asia, bringing together young voices from Southeast Asia. This unique experience aims to develop participants as digital media entrepreneurs who are ready to shape the future of storytelling and engagement in the region. Unlike a traditional conference, this immersive retreat is all about hands-on learning, exchanging ideas, and recharging together in a collaborative, creative space.
About the retreat
Led by DCN experts and editors from Gen Zette, sessions will teach participants how to enhance engagement by adapting to each platform’s evolving language. Special focus will be given to creating culturally relevant content, with insights into bridging local and global interests, as well as strategies for sustainable monetization through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and merchandise. Workshops will explore personal brand development, guiding creators in building an authentic identity that resonates with audiences.
impactful influencers
In today’s digital landscape, influencers play a vital role, not just as content creators but as community leaders. A dedicated session on becoming an impactful influencer will cover skills for connecting with audiences, handling brand partnerships responsibly, and upholding ethical standards. Participants will also learn about how Gen Z processes information uniquely, focusing on visual storytelling and short-form content that captures attention quickly and memorably.
a space for Gen Z creators
This retreat is designed to go beyond skill-building with networking opportunities, community exercises, and gamified challenges. Icebreakers, structured downtime, and traditional relaxation methods create a balance, ensuring participants leave not only more skilled but truly refreshed. This is more than a workshop—it’s a space for Gen Z creators to recharge, connect, and develop in the vibrant heart of Southeast Asia.
EVENT info
DCN’s hybrid events gather up to 30 in-person participants and speakers. Informal networking opportunities will be created during meals and social activities. All activities will be conducted in English.
PARTICIPANTS
Participants will be selected through an open application process based on stated expertise and interest in the listed topics. Special consideration will be given to those individuals who can contribute to and benefit from the discussions. The event will include representatives from as many countries in the region as possible.
-Up to 20 participants from Southeast Asia (Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam)
-Applicants can come from Civil Society, New Media, Academia, Technology Fields, Government, Entrepreneurs, Digital Creators, and Influencers and have expertise/interest in issues such as Trends in Digital Technology, Digital Literacy, Active Citizenship, Digital Transformation, Information Integrity, Cyber Security, Social Media Campaigns, E-Governance, Web 3.0. (Metaverse, AI, etc), Journalism.
-Preferred ages 18 - 25
-Proficient in conversational English
Deadline: January 31, 2025
SPEAKERS
Speakers will be selected from experts that have been recommended or identified by the DCN programming team. You can also recommend a speaker here. Individuals who register as speakers may also be invited to speak at the event.
LOGISTICS
The forum organizers will arrange and cover economy-class flights, hotel accommodations in shared rooms for participants and single rooms for speakers, most of the meals, and social activities during the event. Obtaining visas is the responsibility of the participants.
The retreat is organized by World Learning and Digital Communication Network Global with funding from U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.