What is a Perspective Group

A perspective group is a team that brings together diverse voices within MAGFest to share insights and feedback on important issues. By partnering with the board of directors, these groups help make sure that decisions truly reflect the needs and experiences of everyone involved. Together, perspective groups and the board can promote inclusivity and belonging, ultimately guiding MAGFest in a more effective direction.

Why is this a thing?

Perspective groups are important because they help spot gaps in decision-making that affect specific members. They give a voice to those who are often overlooked, making sure that decisions take into account the diverse needs and experiences of everyone in the organization. These groups act as a strategic partner and liaison for voices that have been under-represented. By sharing a diversity of thought within our space we are creating a diversity of ideas that we may have otherwise missed out on.

Current Groups Established:

BIPOC Group

Women of MAG (working title)

Interested in Creating a Perspective Group?

Consider the following:

• Define Purpose:
  • Clarify the group’s goals, such as improving MAGFest’s organizational culture and volunteer engagement by leveraging insights from a specific affinity (e.g., racial, professional, or interest-based).
• Gain Support:
  • Discuss the idea with the MAGFest board of directors, emphasizing the value of including diverse voices from the specific affinity to enrich understanding and decision-making. To arrange a meeting with the board, you may schedule a meeting by filling out this form or bring it up in the #board-of-directors channel in Slack.
• Share formal Proposal:
  • Create a proposal outlining the group’s objectives, structure, and expected outcomes, specifically how the affinity will contribute unique insights.
• Invite Interested MAGFest Volunteers:
  • Identify and invite individuals from the specific affinity who can offer valuable perspectives and experiences.
• Establish Framework:
  • Define how often the group will meet, who will be facilitating and how insights will be shared and used. Please keep in mind that perspective groups do not need a director from the board to regularly attend nor lead these meetings.
• Evaluate:
  • Set up a system to monitor the group’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed.
  • Report back to the board periodically (Let us know how its going!)
• Communicate to the Public:
  • Add your group onto Notion for visibility and create a private and public channel in slack!!!

By following these steps, you can create a Perspective Group that enhances organizational insights and collaboration with MAGFest as a whole.