Leading Together

ELIA Executive Director Maria Hansen reflects on the ELIA Leadership Symposium in Geneva, celebrating the ELIA network’s commitment to collective leadership and collaboration, and announcing the launch of the Call for Hosts for the next edition.

What an inspiring few days we shared in Geneva for this year’s ELIA Leadership Symposium, beautifully hosted by HEAD – Genève (HES-SO). Under the theme 'The Power of Many', we explored what it means to lead collectively, with empathy and creativity at the heart of our work. 

I was especially delighted to see so many students among us, some supported by ELIA’s Supporting Members. One of the Symposium sessions was even curated by students from HEAD, bringing a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on student engagement that enriched the experience for everyone. Connecting with the students reminded me of the energy and imagination that the next generation brings to our field. 

A special word of appreciation goes to our Ukrainian colleagues, who travelled far to join us and add their voices to the conversation. Their participation, made possible through ELIA’s UAx programme and supported by the Abakanowicz Arts and Culture Charitable Foundation, was deeply valued, and was a reminder of the importance of solidarity within our community. 

Our hosts ensured that we experienced the spirit of Geneva to the fullest – from dinner in one of the city’s oldest restaurants to an evening at the Grand Théâtre de Genève, and even a gathering at the Bains des Pâquis, the iconic lakeside bathhouse and fondue spot beloved by locals. They also arranged mobile visits across the city, including the United Nations and CERN, offering insights into Geneva’s international and scientific communities. Each setting offered a unique opportunity to connect and reflect together. 

During the event, ELIA’s Representative Board also met, reaffirming our commitment to collective leadership and collaboration across our network. I’m incredibly grateful to the ELIA Team and to our generous hosts at HEAD – Genève for their outstanding work in making this Symposium such a success. My sincere thanks also go to the Steering Group, under the leadership of Mart Kalm from the Estonian Academy of the Arts, for reimagining the Leadership Symposium and introducing new formats where needed. 

To those who could not be with us this time: you were missed. The conversations and ideas that emerged will continue to resonate as we look ahead. 

I am also pleased to share that we have now launched the Call for Hosts for the next ELIA Leadership Symposium in 2027. The deadline is 15 December 2025, and we encourage all interested institutions to apply. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. 

With thanks to everyone who contributed, joined, or supported this gathering: together, we truly embodied the power of many. 


Photo credits: Laurent Fiorentino