Last month, I had the joy of participating in the Yellow Edge Un-Conference at the Belconnen Arts Centre (Belco Arts). This innovative two-day gathering stretched the boundaries of traditional conference structures and reimagined leadership development.
The Un-conference design created a dynamic space where leaders from the public, private, and NFP sectors came together to reflect, experiment, and rethink their professional practice. This allowed for reinvigorated learning and genuine collaboration – precisely the environment where innovation thrives.
Yellow Unconference Sketch Outloud
Photographs: Andrew Sikorski – Art Atelier Photography
Over the two days, conversations flowed naturally between structured sessions, thought pieces, creative and practical hands-on workshops, roundtable conversations, peer coaching, open-space discussions, and informal exchanges, creating a rich tapestry of insights and shared experiences.
I facilitated a session called “Sketch Notes Outloud,” exploring visual note-taking as a tool for capturing ideas and enhancing communication. The enthusiasm was contagious as we explored how simple visual techniques could boost communication, creativity and connection. It was so affirming to hear people say, “I can draw”, and really see the benefits of using images and simple drawings to tell a story and communicate an idea. I enjoyed discussing with others how they could begin exploring and experimenting with integrating that approach into meetings, reports, and daily business activities.
Sketch note by Cathryn Lloyd 2025
What stood out to me was Yellow Edge’s commitment to helping leaders foster self-awareness and navigate workplace complexities in innovative ways. The Belco Arts Centre’s situated on Lake Ginninderra on Ngunnawal land (Canberra) significantly enhanced the creative atmosphere, encouraging participants to be open-minded to fresh communication and leadership concepts and to use this unique environment for connection, inspiration and reflection.
This experience reinforced my belief that we all need immersive, creative and natural spaces to experiment with new approaches and challenge our assumptions about how we lead and learn together.