Facebook's Justin Halim on WPP Stream: "Nothing like it!"

Early this month, May 2-4 to be exact, myself and other 150 got the exclusive invitation to this unconference event called Stream Indonesia 2013 organized by WPP. The global event takes place early autumn each year and brings together over three hundred of the brightest and most innovative people in the creative, media and technology industries.

The event was held at Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta, and I personally think that it’s one of the best event I’ve ever attended. There, I met Justin Halim from Facebook Singapore who is half Indonesian, also attended and we got to chat with him regarding the event as well as the awesome set of unconference events inside.

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Before participating, what did you expect to get from WPP Stream?

I had heard many great things about WPP Stream – only the best thought leaders in technology and communications; the mix of agencies, clients and startups; the relaxed, informal setting to come together to network, discuss, share and be inspired! It has always been a goal of mine to be part of this 'un-conference'!

What do you think about the whole "un-conference" theme?

Nothing like it! A perfect avenue to inspire you to think, discuss, question and be questioned! The relaxed, 'un-conference' setting really removes inhibitions and encourages participation – regardless of company, job title, seniority. Everyone's contribution to the discussions are listened to, valued, and respected; and no one participant can just be 'along for the ride'.

5 things you learn from WPP Stream?

• There is an amazing amount of passion for technology and communications that matches (surpasses!) the scale of opportunity in Indonesia for agencies, clients and startups alike

• Speaking of opportunity – it's largely unstructured at present and there is ample room for industry bodies; structured ways of working in the agency/client/startup ecosystem; and educational institutions to further cultivate leading edge thinking

• Indonesia is unique – it has the scale and ecosystem to be a self-sufficient, self-serving market in its own right, and can be a leader of the best ideas and thinking that the rest of Asia follows

• No one can escape mobile, as well the hugely social nature of individuals in this highly dynamic market

• I'm pleased to say that there is loads of interest in Facebook in Indonesia!

As one of the lucky people who got invited, what do you say to those who wants to know more about WPP Stream?

There's no better way to find out more about WPP Stream than tracking down those that attended and getting in touch with them. I'm sure they're all very outgoing and socially savvy, so wouldn't be too hard to find them on all the social media channels!

Any tips for next year's participants?

Leave all inhibitions at the door, come armed with your opinions and ideas, and brush up on those cooking skills and special talents!