ITTF Foundation opens video conference series ahead of the AGM

We had the privilege of being the first of six online presentations in the build up to the 2020 ITTF General Annual Meeting. The video conference was successfully conducted on Tuesday 1st September from the Foundation's headquarters in Leipzig.

Providing an update on the ITTF Foundation’s positive work with the worldwide table tennis community, around 210 online attendees were welcomed to the conference, spanning a duration of just under 90 minutes.

The conference centred around two key blocks – opening with an institutional summary of the ITTF Foundation and its mission, the attention then turned to a special presentation labelled “The power of table tennis – what’s in it for me?” as ITTF Foundation staff highlighted the different opportunities being explored to help deliver a brighter future for the sport. An extensive Q&A session was then held, addressing key issues and concerns from the table tennis community.

Members of the ITTF Foundation board led proceedings, complemented throughout by ITTF Foundation staff with solidarity through table tennis the overarching message. The list of speakers was as follows:

• ITTF & ITTF Foundation President Thomas Weikert
• ITTF Vice President & ITTF Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Petra Sörling
• ITTF Foundation Governing Board Member HRH Princess Zeina Rashid of Jordan
• ITTF CEO & ITTF Foundation Governing Board Member Steve Dainton
• ITTF Foundation Ambassador & ITTF Athletes Commission Member Sarah Hanffou
• ITTF Foundation staff

Successful in bringing the our mission into the spotlight, the video conference has also been praised for its technical accomplishments, opening a new avenue to help bring future presentations to the masses.

“I am excited that we have started this series of six video presentations on the right foot. The table tennis family is accompanying us along the way to the AGM. Following a successful start to the series, we all have seen that our meetings truly know no borders, nor viruses. It has demonstrated that the technology, and efficiency of all involved turns out these great virtual meetings and presents us with a wonderful opportunity to broaden our reach.” Thomas Weikert, ITTF & ITTF Foundation President

“It has been a great experience to be able to speak to such a wide audience of decision makers. The challenge of setting this up provided us with a big opportunity to learn and I think we embraced this digital format to its full. Yesterday, we were in the spotlight, presenting the Foundation and our full team. Thanks to all who have made this possible. I think we discovered a new way forward for presentations and meetings that enables all of us to stay connected.” Leandro Olvech, ITTF Foundation Director

There is no doubt that we presented opportunities for everyone, whether it be National Associations for players or for any other member of our global table tennis family. Opportunities for All. For Life.

Seven interactive video conferences have been organised in the build-up to the AGM, according to the following schedule: