World Chaîne Day is over for another year.

My immediate reaction was that everything went well. The new design for the social media wall worked well and swiftly. I have a feeling that as a result of enhancements and better coordination, the organisation continued to improve. I guess members are more used to social media.

Compared to 2017, participation from many new countries came in so much so that it appears that there are very few which did not take part.

My first impression from the flood of pictures is the strong feeling of togetherness they depicted. There were lots of group pictures, small groups, big groups, families, etc.

There were many special events and three images caught my attention ...

- A couple of members married in Naples, Florida, as part of the World Chaîne Day event there.

- Very different from the usual Chaîne pictures is that of a member and his wife with a new born in his hands. There is something genuine about life and feeling in that image.

- Lastly, the Bailliage of Shanghai staged a “Titanic” evening with exceptional visual effects.

Another new impression is the integration of World Chaîne Day into the lives of the members. I mean the marriage and baby picture also pets. For me it reflects that the Chaîne for these people is not just a hobby but a very important part of their life.

As well as the photos posted on the social media wall, Bailliages are sending it lots and lots by e-mail. The panel of judges for the Photo Competition already has a very big task ahead to select the winners!

Ari-Pekka Parviainen
Chair, World Chaîne Day Organising Committee
Member of the Conseil d’Administration