Project Catalyse: A messaging toolkit for methanol as a hydrogen carrier

I’ve recently wrapped up the presentation and publication of Project Catalyse, a messaging toolkit for methanol fuel cell and reformer companies within the Methanol Institute membership.

The project was conceived with the aim of creating a harmonised messaging strategy for participating companies, through fostering greater alignment in the key messages communicated to stakeholders.

In a three-phase exercise that spanned eight months, I worked together with the Institute to:

  • Read and listen to the stories that participating companies told, and the roles they play in providing a pathway to a #decarbonising world;
  • Distil elements of participating companies‘ narratives to craft themes that form the methanol metanarrative; and
  • Weave a framework, as part of the toolkit, to affirm and enhance the stories told by participating companies, thereby deepening connections with their target audiences and beyond.

It’s been a fantastic experience working with the Institute on this project.

I’m awed by and grateful for how storytelling, communication and change management skills can contribute towards the good work the methanol industry is doing in providing immediate solutions to the world today, as everyone works towards a sustainable tomorrow.

(ST)²: Storytelling for Systems Thinkers (Run 2)

Poster of (ST)²: Storytelling for Systems Thinkers, a workshop for students from National University of Singapore Residential College 4.

Despite the recently-announced Covid-19 restrictions, the second run of (ST)²: Storytelling for Systems Thinkers was successfully completed.

A workshop on the art and science of crafting persuasive and convincing narratives, (ST)² was conducted once more for students from National University of Singapore Residential College 4.

Thanks to invaluable feedback from participants in the first run, this run was held over two days and covered three areas: Asking Good Questions, Listening for Good Answers and Telling Good Stories.

My thanks also go to the participants of Run 2 for their insights and adaptability as we discussed how best to shift the workshop online, while still meeting their learning needs effectively.

I’m looking forward to good stories – as well as stories for good – from them in due course!

Storytelling for Systems Thinkers

I had the pleasure and privilege of conducting a storytelling workshop for Residential College 4 last Friday (Feb 5, 2021) in NUS.

RC4 is one of four residential colleges in the university which offer a two-year residential programme, with the college’s focus being on systems thinking.

In the workshop, we looked at both the purpose and power of narrative in creating understanding of systems, as well as communicating that understanding clearly and effectively to stakeholders.

We also touched on interviewing and writing techniques as part of asking good questions in order to get good answers that clarify understanding.

It was a meaningful experience and, as always, a happy return to the alma mater.