Yes, we had a bit of a break, gathering strength and motivation, taking time to contemplate the things that work - and those that deserve improvement. And yes, we found plenty reasons for looking forward to the coming autumn.

Back from the summer break, the Voice of the Danube community hits the ground running. This autumn will bring numerous highlights:

A new KnowNow Webinar:

One key takeaway from the smashingly successful Danube Water Conference was the enormous importance of the workforce issue in the water sector. Attracting, motivating and retaining talent is the key to future success, the sessions about this theme were among the most popular at the conference, and we noticed strong demand for more. Therefore, we are currently preparing a DWP KnowNow Webinar with a distinguished panel that will take a deeper look into the workforce theme. Please stay tuned, date and time will be announced shortly.

A Training of Trainers:

Another burning topic is financing utility operation, and it is the basis of a special D-LeaP capacity building program. In the last week of October, a D-LeaP “Access to Financing” Training of Trainers is scheduled in Podgorica, Montenegro, with Una Consulting as the Technical Partner. Preparations are in full swing, and the region’s water associations are currently selecting participants. In case you are interested in the program, full information can be found under the program's page.

A new module for UMT particpants:

November will see the Asset Management and Investment Planning module of the second Utility Management Training cycle in Belgrade, Serbia. Together with our members and partners in preparation of this module, UTVSI and Belgrade Water, IAWD is looking forward to bring all 16 UMT participants together again this fall. 

A series of water events:

Not only we at IAWD are busy, but also our members are organizing conferences for the autumn season: 
The Annual Montenegro Water Conference hosted by UVCG will take place in Budva from 3 to 5 November.
ADKOM invites you to their annual event in Skopje from 18 to 19 November. 
SHUKALB and SHUKOS are hosting the Joint Balkans Conference and Exhibition together in Albania from 7 to 9 November. 
Serbian Water Association UTVSI's annual regional event will take place from 8 to 10 November in Belgrade. 

For more information about these events, visit the event section on Voice of the Danube. 

That’s it for now – welcome back, and please stay tuned. More news is on the way!