Monday, 26th March saw the exciting day of the 2nd Conference of the Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers, UK (apdo-uk). Over 30 members from all over the country attended this day of learning, sharing and camaraderie, which constitutes over 30% of the national membership. A really marvellous turnout. Members travelled from as far away as Devon, Scotland and even Northern Ireland. One of our speakers, the lovely Annelie Bummer, travelled all the way from the Netherlands to share with us what nbpo, the Netherlands Association of Professional Organizers, has been doing with and for their members.
Apdo-uk is teaming up with Anxiety UK, the charity that is run by sufferers and ex-sufferers of anxiety disorders, supported by a high-profile medical advisory panel. Amo Kalar, Chair of Anxiety UK gave us a great insight into the work of the charity and how our organisations can work together.
We had several great talks by apdo members, Heather Matuozzo, Clouds End, shared with us how we can work with hoarders. Juliet Landau-Pope, Declutter Coach, talked about the Happiness Movement and Patty Cruz-Fouchard, Organised and Simple Ltd., one of our newest members shared her experience at the NAPO conference in Baltimore where she had flown back from earlier that day (now that’s dedication for you!). I also did a talk for our members, sharing how our profession can use public speaking to their advantage.
And finally there was a super presentation from Geoff Rolls, NLP Licensed Trainer, who shared a really interesting session about Neuro Linguistic Programming. Definitely something to look into further!
All in all a great day, where it was great to put faces to names, connect to fellow organisers and strengthen bonds across the country. It was difficult to pack the whole schedule into only one day; so much to talk about, so many people to meet, so little time. So maybe a two-day event next time? Hint, hint …
