The Guernsey Funds Forum, an esteemed event hosted by Guernsey Finance, serves as a platform for industry leaders to convene and dissect paradigm shifts shaping the global financial landscape. In the dynamic year of 2018, discussions among thought leaders delved into a myriad of topics, including domestic and international politics, the rise of protectionism, shifts in monetary policy, and evolving investor expectations.

At the helm of the event was keynote speaker Jonathan Ford, City Editor at the Financial Times, who provided invaluable insights and analysis into the year's most significant news stories, setting the stage for thought-provoking dialogue and exploration.

The theme for the 2018 Guernsey Funds Forum, "If the World Turned Upside Down," encapsulated the event's focus on reflecting the evolving nature of stock markets and offering foresight into future trends. As the event's graphic designer, I was tasked with creating visuals that captured the essence of stock markets, risk, and breaking news, infusing the venue with a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

In a stroke of inspiration, I conceptualized animations to elevate the event's experience and serve as both a promotional item for marketing campaigns and a functional tool for managing sessions. These animations, a brainchild of mine, were strategically integrated to signify the beginning and end of sessions, addressing a previous challenge faced by the team.

The success of these animations was undeniable, leading to their widespread adoption by the team for all future events. Through their seamless integration and effectiveness in managing sessions, they have become an indispensable element of the event experience.

Additionally, for the first time, the events team was persuaded to invest in artwork wraps for the main conference room, adding a touch of sophistication and professionalism to the event ambiance.

As part of the art installation project, I hosted regular sessions with students from the Guernsey College of Further Education to coach them in creative thinking and guide them through the design process. This collaboration not only resulted in a stunning art installation but also provided valuable learning opportunities for the students, fostering creativity and innovation.

Throughout the venue, characters and elements were strategically placed to showcase different aspects of the day, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. Additionally, the winning concept, "Drop Anchor in Guernsey," featured a striking giant anchor piece and interactive feedback crab pots, offering attendees a unique and immersive experience.

In addition to visual elements, I directed a talented videographer and animator to produce a promotional video and animation, aimed at attracting new attendees to both the event and future editions. Through strategic storytelling and captivating visuals, we aimed to convey the significance and relevance of the Guernsey Funds Forum to a broader audience.

As we reflect on the success of the 2018 event, we look forward to continuing to push boundaries and drive innovation in future iterations of the Guernsey Funds Forum, further solidifying its position as a leading platform for industry discourse and collaboration.

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