Looking back at TheMuseumsLab 2024 by Alumnus Eliabu Sadock Mbonimpa

Being part of TheMuseumLab2024 was a fantastic opportunity for me. As an alumnus, I gained valuable experiences in my field and participated in discussions about current global issues related to museums and heritage management. Meeting inspiring people with diverse perspectives was a highlight of the program.

From my point of view, TheMuseumLab acts as a platform that brings together museum and heritage professionals to discuss various challenges facing the sector. It creates a space where everyone's opinions are heard and respected. No matter how difficult the topic might be yet everyone is invited to share their opinions. The programme connects African and European museum professionals, allowing us to share insights and find solutions to contemporary challenges we both face. By collaborating, we can learn how to address difficult histories, problems, and work together effectively.

Visiting museums in Accra-Ghana and in Berlin was a new and eye-opening experience for me. I saw how they operate and the types of objects they have. Comparing them to museums in my own country helped me understand how to improve museum spaces. TheMuseumLab allowed me to build a strong network with other Fellows, which has been precious. I met many knowledgeable Fellows who shared their experiences and approaches to overcoming challenges in their work.

One story that deeply moved me during our time in Accra, Ghana, was about a stool with two crocodiles that share one stomach but still fight for food. This story taught me that, as museum professionals, we should work together instead of competing over the challenges we face in the heritage sector.

My visits to exhibitions and collection spaces in German museums raised many questions for me. I noticed that while these museums hold many African objects that represent our material culture, museums in Africa often are seen empty and focus more on non-material culture. I hope that ongoing discussions will help bring some of these material culture back to their original communities.

In my country, museums are often seen as places for foreign tourists, which make locals hesitant to engage with them. TheMuseumLab has helped me understand current topics and practices in the museum field, equipping me with knowledge and skills that I can apply in my work.

Spending time at the Grassi Museum für Völkerkunde zu Leipzig was particularly impactful. I had the chance to learn from the exhibitions and interact with the displays, which has positively influenced my professional development. I am now better prepared to make a positive impact at my institution, especially concerning our collections.