Call for Speakers

January 29-30, 2024

Proposal Deadline: October 15th 2023

MuseumNext, a global conference on the future of museums since 2009, highlights best practices and envisions the museums of tomorrow.

Our first event of 2024 will look at the role of mindfulness, health and well-being in museums.

As museum professionals we have long believed in the positive impact of our institutions, this has been validated by studies reporting that museums combat stress, reduce social isolation, increase self-esteem and may even lead to longer lives.

The Museums, Health & Wellbeing Summit will bring together museum professionals from around the globe to share best practice in mindfulness, health and wellbeing in museums.

We’re now looking for speakers to make 20-minute presentations for this event.

A few subjects which you might wish to discuss?

• What are museums doing to combat social isolation?
• How can museums offer calming experiences to decrease anxiety?
• What role can museums play in serving those with dementia?
• How to make health and wellbeing a priority in your museum?
• How can museums improve the mental health of their communities?
• What are the benefits to a museum of prioritising health and well-being programmes?
• How can museums help to build resilience in children?
• How are museums reaching beyond their walls through technology?
• How can museums prevent burnout and care for the mental health of their staff?

Or you may have your own ideas.

We welcome presentations on health and wellbeing from across the museum sector.

Presentation Format

MuseumNext follows a fast-paced, twenty-minute presentation format, emphasising practice over theory.

All talks must be pre-recorded to ensure high-quality presentations and minimise technical difficulties. Speakers should be available for live Q&As if time zones permit (event runs 2pm – 7pm London time zone).

All presentations must be in English.

IMPORTANT: Download our speakers guide here, to see examples of past presentations and tips for making your MuseumNext presentation a success.

How to Apply

Submit proposals using this form, including the title, presenter names, theme summary, relevant links, and expected learning outcomes.

Deadline: October 15th 2023

What’s next?

Our conference peer panel will review all proposals and curate the event program.

We will respond to all applicants by October 30th, 2023.

Pre-recorded talks will be required by 15th January to allow for captioning, use in marketing and tech checks.