TechFest 2025 – From Idea to Impact in Four Weeks
Clive Gibson, Assistant Principal for Educational Technology and Lab School Lead, Star International School, Mirdif, shares his experience of bringing together the first ISP Tech Fest
A few months ago, I had an idea: What if we created a regional platform for teachers to share authentic, effective uses of educational technology in real classrooms? Not just another conference – but a grassroots, teacher-led celebration of EdTech across the ISP Middle East schools. I originally envisioned this for the following academic year… but plans changed.
Suddenly, I had four weeks to bring it all to life.
What followed was an intense, rewarding journey that not only resulted in a hugely successful event but also firmly placed Star, Mirdif at the heart of the regional EdTech conversation.
The “Why” Behind TechFest
At the core of TechFest was a belief that has shaped all of my EdTech work: If a tool doesn’t enhance learning outcomes, it doesn’t belong in the lesson.
So the goal was simple — to bring together teachers using technology with purpose. Not theoretical models or tech for tech’s sake, but real teachers, in real schools, using tools that add real value to teaching and learning.
And crucially, I wanted this to reflect all our classrooms – which meant ensuring sessions in Arabic as well. Too often, EdTech conversations are disproportionately English-medium. TechFest needed to be truly inclusive.
Planning in Fast-Forward
With the venue secured (Star, Mirdif), I immediately turned to agenda building. I reached out through LinkedIn, Twitter, and personal networks, inviting teachers to apply to speak via a Google Form. The response was overwhelming – educators from across the region wanted to get involved.
From there, I carefully curated the lineup to ensure we had the right balance of topics, languages, and expertise. A real highlight was hosting Dan Groves, the Lab School Lead from the British School of Málaga, who brought powerful insight from ISP Europe.
Alongside this, I partnered with our marketing team to design eye-catching graphics that showcased our presenters and gave TechFest a professional, polished feel from day one.
Making It Happen
The next big challenge: funding.
With limited time, I contacted a range of companies via LinkedIn, and even enlisted ChatGPT to help me draft outreach emails, identify suitable EdTech sponsors, and tailor messaging around why TechFest would benefit their brand. Some offered sponsorship; others paid for table space to engage with delegates.
Once sponsorship began to trickle in, I faced the next logistical hurdle: catering. Early quotes were well beyond our budget. But thanks to trusted contacts, we secured delicious food at a great price, helping us maintain quality without overspending.
On the day before the event, we did a full walkthrough of the school. From decorations to room layout, signage, and AV setup — it was all hands on deck. We also launched a dedicated website and sent logistical details (parking, agenda, map) to delegates, which helped the event run smoothly.
The Outcome
On the day, we welcomed:
- Around 200 delegates on the English-language side
- 100 more attending Arabic-language sessions
The atmosphere was electric. Teachers led workshops and talks that truly resonated with attendees, and the cross-school conversations were inspiring. There was a real sense of shared purpose – a collective ambition to keep pushing what’s possible in digital teaching and learning.
Since the event, TechFest has helped Star, Mirdif become a recognised hub for EdTech innovation in the region. We’ve even gone on to win awards – but more importantly, we’ve sparked momentum that continues to grow.
A Word to Future Organisers
If you're thinking about running TechFest 2026 or something similar in your school, here’s what I’ve learned:
- Start with the “why.” Ground your event in what matters most – student learning.
- Focus on authenticity. Teachers want to hear from people like them, not just theory.
- Plan for bilingual inclusion. Arabic teachers and learners must be part of the EdTech dialogue.
- Use your networks. LinkedIn, Twitter/X, and tools like ChatGPT were vital in connecting with speakers and sponsors.
- Create a buzz. Your graphics, marketing, and comms matter — they set the tone.
It was a whirlwind month — but absolutely worth it.
If you'd like to get involved in TechFest 2026, or are planning your own event and want to swap ideas, feel free to reach out.
Let’s keep building something that brings real value to the classroom.
