Ideas Collider: Intergenerational Connections

Date: October 15, 2024
Location: Central Coast Research Institute, Gosford, NSW
Participants: 40 members of the community.

The Living Lab Ideas Collider was a dynamic and inspiring event hosted by the Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab, designed to explore innovative ways to bridge generational gaps and tackle social isolation and loneliness.

Bringing together people from all walks of life—including university students, retirees, health professionals, and community advocates—the event aimed to foster collaboration across generations. Participants worked in small, diverse groups to brainstorm solutions, pitch ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions about how to create stronger, more inclusive communities.

Key Outcomes

The Ideas Collider demonstrated the power of bringing generations together to solve shared challenges.

Innovative Solutions: Ideas ranged from integrating community gardens into schools to reimagining community spaces based on local needs.
New Connections: Participants valued the opportunity to collaborate with people from different age groups, building relationships that extend beyond the event.
Positive Feedback: Attendees appreciated being pushed out of their comfort zones and were energised by the creativity and inclusivity of the experience.

The Event in Focus

Collaborative Brainstorming: Each group tackled a challenge statement focused on intergenerational connection, encouraging creative and practical ideas.
Idea Pitching: Teams presented their concepts in a fun, informal setting, showcasing a diverse range of innovative solutions.
Community Engagement: The evening highlighted the importance of shared spaces, mentorship opportunities, and programs designed to connect younger and older generations.
Winning Idea: The standout concept, "Wisdom in the Workforce: A Reverse Internship Disrupter," proposed pairing university graduates with older mentors to foster mutual learning and respect.

Why It Matters

The event reinforced the importance of addressing social isolation and loneliness by fostering intergenerational understanding. By creating spaces for collaboration and dialogue, the Living Lab continues to empower the community to find solutions that are practical, innovative, and inclusive.