How We Helped Bring Science to New Audiences

Goldrush Exhibition in Valais

Location:
Valais, Switzerland

Industries:
Science Communication
Public Engagement and Education
Event Management
Media and Public Relations

Services:
Event Management
Communication
Media Relations
Social Media Campaign Management

Overview

Science Valais, a key player in promoting scientific knowledge and awareness in the region, wanted to engage a broader audience with an innovative approach to sustainability. Conexkt proposed bringing the successful Goldrush project—an interactive, educational exhibition created by EPFL Valais Wallis—closer to the local population.

The Goldrush exhibition, inspired by Dr. Wendy Lee Queen's research team at EPFL, , with contributions from Mirko Bischofberger in communication and dissemination, raises awareness about unsustainable gold extraction practices and highlights innovative methods for recovering gold from electronic waste.

Objectives

Our main objective was to bring the Goldrush project to Valais, ensuring it was accessible to a wide audience, particularly teens, and children who are often less exposed to scientific themes.

The Challenge

The primary challenge was to adapt the exhibition to the local venue while effectively engaging the public, especially young people and families, in a non-traditional setting like a shopping mall.

Our Approach

At Conexkt, we focused on ensuring that the Goldrush exhibition made its mark in Valais, bringing Science Valais' vision to life through careful planning and execution:

  • Research: We worked closely with Science Valais to identify the ideal location for the exhibit. The Forum des Alpes in Conthey, a shopping center frequented by families and young people, was chosen as the perfect site to maximize public engagement.

  • Execution: Our team supported the logistics of transporting the exhibition and facilitated its promotion and public engagement in close collaboration with Science Valais.

  • Media & Outreach: To maximize visibility, we facilitated interviews and coverage across multiple channels:

  • Podcast interview discussing the science behind the exhibition and its environmental impact (28.08).

  • Radio interview on RhoneFM's "Good Morning Valais" (22.08).

  • Articles in Migros Magazine (09.09), Cominmag (06.09), and Le Régional (12.09).

  • Inclusion in various regional event agendas, such as those of the Office of Tourism of Conthey, Commune de Conthey, Culture Valais, and Science Valais.

  • Online presence on tempslibre.ch, myswitzerland.com, and localcities.ch for broad digital outreach.

  • Community Engagement: Conexkt also supported local engagement through direct outreach to schools and public spaces:

  • Flyers distributed in strategic locations around Sion.

  • A targeted email campaign sent to local schools through the Service of Education, inviting teachers and students to visit the exhibition.

  • An organized visit from Educaterre involving 12 students and 4 teachers (20.09).

Goldrush in Valais

Vincent Hiroz, Operations Director EPFL Valais Wallis

“Initiatives like the 'Goldrush' exhibition are essential to bring science closer to the general public. Not only do they enable us to share technological and scientific advances, but they also inspire vocations. At EPFL Valais Wallis, we are proud to support projects that make science accessible and stimulate curiosity.”.

The Solution

Conexkt successfully brought the Goldrush project to Valais by managing logistics, adapting the exhibition to the Forum des Alpes shopping center, and promoting it to reach a diverse local audience, ensuring an engaging and impactful experience.

Results

The Goldrush exhibition in Valais was a resounding success, drawing in a large number of visitors and raising awareness about electronic waste recycling.

  • 800+ visitors engaged with the exhibition each week, including families, school groups, and individuals.

  • Media coverage and local promotion helped amplify the message, increasing awareness around electronic waste and sustainability in Valais.

Impact

By bringing the Goldrush exhibition to Valais, Conexkt helped Science Valais achieve their goal of engaging the local population with an important scientific and environmental message.

  • Transformation: The exhibition introduced many visitors to the concept of electronic waste recycling, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices in everyday life.

  • Industry Impact: The success of Goldrush in Valais demonstrated the value of mobile science exhibitions as a powerful tool for public engagement and education.

Are you looking to bring impactful science exhibitions to your region?

Contact Conexkt to learn how we can help manage the logistics and ensure your project reaches the right audience.