Week 1 at I2N Pre-Accelerator: Immersion Day Reflections

Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Location: I2N Hub, Honeysuckle, Newcastle

What a day it was! The weather seemed to mimic the rollercoaster of emotions and excitement I experienced as I stepped into the I2N Pre-Accelerator for the first time. The sun and rain took turns, reflecting the whirlwind I felt within.

Building Connections

Entering the room, I was greeted by a vibrant group of individuals, each brimming with passion and armed with their unique startup ideas. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation and enthusiasm, and engaging in conversations, sharing our visions, and learning about each other's journeys was truly inspiring. It was comforting to realize that we were all on similar journeys, navigating through similar challenges and aspirations.

Laying the Foundation

Immersion Day wasn't just a round of introductions; it was about laying the groundwork for the next 10 weeks. We delved into the program's roadmap, understanding its structure and expectations. The emphasis on stepping out of our comfort zones, while being mindful not to overwhelm ourselves, was a recurring theme. Hearing from past participants who shared their initial apprehensions and subsequent growth was both reassuring and motivating.

Insights from Leonie Cutts

A definite highlight of the day was the opportunity to listen to Leonie Cutts from CCS Corporation Pty Ltd. Leonie, the co-founder of CCS Corporation, shared insights into fostering meaningful connections and the importance of understanding individual perspectives. Her company's product, CARISA, is making waves in enhancing social interactions in residential aged care. Her talk deeply resonated with me and served as a source of inspiration and motivation.

Activities and Takeaways

The day was jam-packed with interactive sessions designed to challenge our thinking and refine our ideas. From group discussions to individual reflections, every activity was a step towards gaining clarity and purpose. Time seemed to fly by, and before I knew it, the day had come to an end. I left feeling energized, equipped, and eagerly anticipating what's to come.

Embarking on this journey with I2N marks a significant step towards transforming my idea into a tangible solution. The unparalleled support, resources, and community here have already left a profound impact on me, and I simply can't wait to see how the next 10 weeks unfold.

Stay tuned for more updates as I navigate this thrilling path!