I am one of the seven founding members who established the association on 26 June 2009, and I was involved in drafting its articles of association.
Based in Wiesbaden, the non-profit association is dedicated to promoting Japanese art and culture, in particular modern pop culture with its fields of anime, manga and cosplay. A particular focus is on intercultural exchange and international understanding. Fans and anyone interested should have the opportunity to get to know modern Japanese culture, find out more about it and share their interest with one another.
The highlight of the association's year is the multi-day Japan convention Wie.MAI.KAI, with more than 3,000 visitors at the Stadthalle in Flörsheim am Main. An extensive stage programme is one of the central parts of its varied line-up, alongside exhibitors, workshops, gaming and film screenings. In addition, the association holds anime and manga meetups in the Wiesbaden area several times a year and appears as an exhibitor at various events, including the Frankfurt Book Fair and Main Matsuri in Offenbach.
My responsibilities
- Leading the association: strategic direction, finances and taxes, contracts and liaison with the authorities
- Convention: overall project management, venue and infrastructure planning, supporting programme with workshops and exhibitor areas
- Partners: acquiring and looking after exhibitors, sponsors, guests of honour and cooperation partners
- Team: coordinating and leading the volunteer team
- Digitalisation: Microsoft 365 for the association, pretix ticketing with online and on-site payment, digital admission control with handheld scanners and POS systems
- Websites: administration and maintenance of the association and event websites based on WordPress, including custom plugins
- Public relations: social media, advertising and sponsorship concepts, representing the association at trade fairs and to the press
- Print media: design and production of flyers, programme posters, merchandise and other print products
Software for the association
For the convention I developed a dedicated app and two WordPress plugins, so visitors always have the programme, exhibitors and floor plan at hand. More under Projects.
More about the association wiemaikai.de
