Events

Mapathons: Collaborative Mapping Events

Mapathons are dynamic events where mappers of all skill levels come together to contribute to mapping projects. Typically, they follow this structure:

Introduction to the mapping initiative and objectives: Participants are briefed on the project's goals, the importance of the mapping effort, and the intended impact, aligning everyone’s efforts.

Brief explanation on how to map: A training session covers the basics for beginners and advanced techniques for experienced mappers, ensuring all participants are equipped to contribute effectively.

Editing activity with fellow contributors like you! : Participants engage in collaborative mapping, working alongside other volunteers. This interactive segment fosters a sense of community, with real-time feedback and support available from experienced mappers or organizers.

Mapathons are productive, educational, and socially engaging, allowing volunteers to learn new skills, connect with others, and make valuable contributions to important projects.

Training Sessions: Enhancing Mapping Skills

Training sessions are designed to boost mapping skills in areas like usage of UN Maps features, topographic mapping and data validation. Available online or on-site, some sessions are open to all, while UN Maps features training is exclusive to UN staff. Typically, these sessions follow this structure:

Introduction to the session and objectives: Overview of the training topic, goals, and its importance.

In-depth training modules: Detailed tutorials and hands-on practice covering specialized tools for in-house mapping activities or open geospatial data editing.

Interactive practice and support: Practical exercises with real-time feedback and peer collaboration. Follow-up exercises are offered and continuous validation and feedback to trainees is given.

These sessions provide practical, engaging training to enhance the mapping capabilities of the participants.

Mapping Campaigns: On-Site Community Engagement

Mapping campaigns are collaborative efforts where local community members in our project areas can participate in on-site mapping activities. If you reside in one of the countries covered by our initiatives, join us in identifying and mapping points of interest in your area. Our campaigns typically include the following elements:

Community engagement and coordination: Local residents are invited to participate in mapping activities, fostering community involvement and ownership of the mapping process.

On-site data collection: Participants gather data on the ground, identifying and mapping important local features and points of interest. This hands-on approach ensures accurate and up-to-date information.

Safety and security considerations: All activities prioritize the safety and security of participants. Potential risks are assessed, and necessary precautions are taken to ensure a safe mapping environment.

These campaigns enable communities to contribute directly to mapping efforts, ensuring local knowledge is accurately represented and enhancing the quality of our mapping projects.