By: Fabiana Zoroni, '93E
Grüß Gott from Fabiana Zoroni, alumna of Cast ’93E, and Silke Regev, alumna of Cast ’90D. Many years, many memories, and many encounters later, we are thrilled to announce something very special:
The European Alumni Meeting (EAM) 2026 will take place in Vienna, Austria!
Why Vienna?
That’s a good question—and for me, Fabiana, a very personal one. I’m Italian, and after my year with Up with People, I was lucky enough to live in many different countries. For more than ten years now, Austria—or more precisely, Vienna—has been my home.
I love the area where I live and the community that welcomed me. Perhaps that’s exactly why I wanted to organize this European Alumni Meeting here—to show my friends from all over the world where I am today, what I love about this place, and to give something back to Vienna.
What will we do?
Vienna is a city full of history, music, and zest for life—and we want you, the alumni, to experience it all. There will be activities for every taste:
- For nature lovers: Walks in the Vienna Woods, one of Europe’s greenest oases.
- For the romantics: A waltz workshop.
- For culture lovers: Visits to museums, the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, and the historic streets of the old town.
- For foodies: The famous Viennese coffee houses, a Strudel show, and the city’s warm hospitality.
- For the artists among us: You’ll have the chance to dive into the world of colours, shapes, and not-straight lines of the famous artist Hundertwasser.
This time, instead of a community service activity, we will have a social awareness activity: We often take for granted that we can see, hear, and walk—but not everyone can. There will be an opportunity to enjoy a meal as a blind person would, discovering how to “see” with our other senses.
We are certain Vienna will touch your hearts. This city blends tradition and openness, history and future, elegance and joie de vivre.
What will be different from other European Alumni Meetings?
Honestly, I don’t have an answer to that. This is the first EAM that I’ve organized—and also the first one I’m attending!
That´s why, what you can expect in Vienna is not a “template meeting,” but one designed with imagination, heart, and a very personal touch.
Maybe it will be a bit different because it’s shaped by my own story—my travels, my love for Vienna, my Italian soul, and my wish to give you something special.
Even though I started this huge adventure all by myself, I quickly found someone to stand by my side—Silke Regev from Cast ’90D: a true Austrian who has always supported me and whose punctuality and precision wonderfully complement my slightly crazy and passionate Italian style.
Now I can proudly say: We are the perfect team—small, but incredibly strong and full of joy in what we do.
We’ve tried to create a weekend that combines warmth, culture, fun, and connection—in the true spirit of Up with People, but with a personal Viennese touch.
In conclusion…
When I found out there were no plans for the EAM 2026, my first thought was: “Okay, the Alumni Association will take care of it.” But a moment later, I realized: The Alumni Association—that’s us, the alumni! And if each of us thinks someone else will do it, then nothing happens. So something inside me immediately said: “Yes, I can do this!” That’s how it all began—and I’m so happy I took this step. Sometimes you just feel that something is right. And when you have that feeling—when you’re excited for something new, something beautiful—then go for it!
Step out of your comfort zone! That’s how the best stories begin.
We’re so excited to welcome you all to Vienna.
Let’s celebrate, remember, laugh—and keep the spirit of Up with People alive!
If you’d like to learn more, or register to attend EAM in April, please visit the site: https://www.uwpeam.com. We hope to see you there!!!