Storytelling Competition
The Best Mistake I Ever Made
The Best Mistake I Ever Made is a 3-minute storytelling competition where participants take the stage to share a memorable mistake, challenge, or unexpected situation—and, most importantly, what they learned from it. Participants are encouraged to reflect on the lessons they learned, the insights they gained, the unexpected opportunities they discovered, or simply share a humorous story that still makes them laugh today.
Not every great story begins with success. Sometimes it starts with a wrong decision, a failed experiment, a misunderstanding, an unexpected setback, or a moment that simply didn’t go according to plan.
Are you up for the 3-minutes storytelling challenge?
Apply before 15 July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
The competition is open to all registered participants of the IEEE R8 SYP Congress 2026.
What kind of story can I present?
Your story should be based on a real experience – a mistake, unexpected challenge, failure, or turning point that led to a valuable lesson, new perspective, or simply a memorable story.
Talks may be funny, inspiring, emotional, or thought-provoking.
- Presentation time: 3 minutes maximum.
- The story may relate to research, engineering, studies, professional experience, or personal development.
- The presentation should clearly explain:
- What happened?
- Why did it go wrong (or unexpectedly)?
- What was learned from the experience?
- Why is the story worth sharing?
How do I apply?
Complete the online application form and tell us about the story you would like to share. Applications will be reviewed, and selected participants will be invited to the live final.
How are the winners selected?
The finalists will present their stories live during the Congress.
After all presentations, the audience will vote for their favorite talk.
The focus is not on the scale of the mistake or the scientific achievement, but on:
- Storytelling and audience engagement,
- Clarity and structure,
- Originality and authenticity,
- The lesson, insight, or reflection shared,
- Overall presentation style and impact.
How to Participate
Just three simple steps stand between you and the stage!
Step 1: Apply
Submit your application through the online form. Tell us shortly about your story, what happened, and what you learned from the experience.
Step 2: Get Selected
Applications will be reviewed by the organizing committee. If selected, you’ll receive an email with all the details and tips to help you prepare for the final.
Step 3: Take the Stage!
Share your story in just 3 minutes during the Congress and compete for
the Audience Choice Award.
Everyone Makes Mistakes. Not Everyone Tells the Story.
Apply today and become one of the storytellers at the IEEE R8 SYP Congress 2026.
