A report from Lorenzo Unich, PONYS (Physics and Optics Naples Young Students)
As young scientists we are often challenged to destroy what our certainties and beliefs are, even if they’re very rooted. On many occasions we have to completely change the point of view on things. But during these years the PONYS association never changed views on a basic principle: the fundamental mission to share science and to make it accessible to everyone.
This endeavour pushes us to improve what we have done and to continue what we see as effective. Parla Potabile – Science for Everybody is a format now in its fourth edition. Hosted by the cultural centre Scugnizzo Liberato, in the heart of Naples’ city centre, it is a science fair that features a wide range of exhibitions: from university researchers to student associations, from members of research centres to PhD students from our section. This cultural centre has become a hub during the years for organising events and providing cultural services that would otherwise not be present in the area. Each exhibitor is free to bring different kinds of activities, shaped by three essential principles: they must be adaptable to different audiences, they should introduce a field of science or technology, and – most importantly – they must be engaging for the public.
The strength of the event lies in the variety of activities offered, allowing each visitor to find something that interests them. For example, we host hands-on workshops, science-themed board games, quizzes, and more.This really broadens the public of this event: school children, young teenagers, adults, people walking in just to take a look at what is going on.This year’s numbers were really impressive: we had more than 20 associations involved and 75 volunteers that helped us welcome more than 2000 visitors.For this edition, we wanted to broaden our demographics, trying to attract young adults to the event, so we added a final concert to the event. Our idea was to merge the spirit of science outreach with the festive energy of a live show. This blend worked well: some attendees, initially drawn by the music, took the opportunity to explore the scientific exhibitions and interact with the activities around them. We estimate that for the concert alone, more than 100 additional visitors came, helping us to mix science with a social and cheerful occasion.
