Transforming Events through Media Innovations & Sustainability

How can we inspire festival goers to party more sustainably? 

In this Short Advanced Programme (SAP) , you’ll dive into the world of events and explore creative ways to spark real change in audience behaviour. Using Design Thinking, you’ll design creative strategies that make sustainability part of the celebration.

The Short Advanced Programme (SAP) ‘Transforming Events through Media’ is jointly coordinated by the NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (NHL Stenden), and the Polytechnic University of Leiria (IPLeiria).

Hosted by NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, this SAP challenges students to explore how festivals and events can inspire audiences to act more sustainably. Through real-life case studies and hands-on collaboration, participants will investigate how innovative strategies can make sustainable behavior an integral part of the festival experience.

Open to students from all disciplines, this SAP welcomes anyone passionate about sustainability, creativity, and innovation, whether you come from hospitality/event management, creative business, communication, design, or the arts. Using the power of Design Thinking, students will co-create practical and inspiring solutions that weave sustainability naturally into the celebration. As part of the programme, participants will also develop and produce a media product - a creative communication piece designed to share their insights and inspire action among festival audiences. From nudging audience behavior to designing engaging, eco-friendly event experiences, this programme blends creativity, innovation, and purpose. Join us to reimagine the future of festivals, where fun and sustainability go hand in hand.

Why join?

Because sustainability and innovation are the future of every industry. 

As festivals and events evolve, professionals who can combine creativity, collaboration, and purpose-driven thinking will lead the way. This Short Advanced Programme gives you the opportunity to build those skills by tackling real sustainability challenges in dynamic, international teams.

Join this transformative learning experience and become part of a new generation of change makers shaping how the world celebrates, responsibly, creatively, and together.