Category Archives: Special Events

What’s the buzz? Tell me what’s a-happening?

I was 14 when the smash album became a Broadway sensation. Jesus Christ Superstar ruffled more than a few feathers, but to this rebellious teenager, it was a personally freeing experience.

But that’s a story for another time.

Norman Jewison, the film’s director, said, “These kids are trying to take Jesus off the stained-glass windows and get him down on the street.”

It was about making something relatable for those, like myself at the time, struggling to find meaning and trying to make sense of life; looking for direction.

What does this have to do with CogniCon?

Last year, when we launched our first cognitive convention in Second Life, there were those who scoffed, those who questioned the seriousness of the idea, and those who dismissed us. Then COVID-19 spread like wildfire through our communities and online connection suddenly meant more than anyone could have imagined.

Many in the brain injury community tried navigating multiple-person, real-time, video platforms like Zoom. Others held on to the idea that they could resume their lives in a matter of weeks. BEST built on what we were already doing.

BEST already hosted video meetings, facilitated teleconferencing, offered online workshops and presentations, and worked from our virtual PEER Center in Second Life. CogniCon was a way to creatively reach and support those with brain injury and their families.

A year has passed. Many are still isolated, trying to make sense of things, and looking for direction. For those of us who participate in virtual worlds the isolation feels less sharp, social interactions make sense, and we continue to build our relationships and communities.

I invite you to join us in Second Life for our 2021 CogniCon. We’ve got a terrific schedule planned with engaging speakers, networking opportunities, music, and more.

The 2021 CogniCon Schedule can be found here.

If you’re new to the idea of virtual worlds and would like to know more about BEST in Second Life, visit our Second Life page.