SHIFT’s official pre-event gathered eighty participants, representing a wide array of businessmen, thought leaders, and influencers from Turku area, to a cocktail party.

The event was held on the 14th of April at the TriviumCity building, owned by SHIFT’s main partner, Turku Technology Properties.

At the event key partners and stakeholders had the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of the festival program, network with each other, and meet The SHIFT team in a smooth atmosphere. Visual alchemist Artturi Elovirta offered guests eye candy, while DJ Henri Karlsson kept the beats flowing. In addition Rosa Rantanen and Jaska Poikonen performed live music.

And that was not all. SHIFT also brought in the main event venue, the Castle of Turku. All of the pre-event participants had the opportunity to try out a full blown virtual reality experience developed by Turku Game Lab. By taking advantage of the latest VR technology, you were locked inside of a castle chamber, from which you had to escape, while being helped only by your own wits.

The true daredevils of the event went on, and had their faces painted. By challenging people to do something slightly awkward, a small, but symbolic point was made: in business, and in life, the real growth happens outside of your comfort zone. The issue was underlined by the fact that the people with face paintings made plenty of new connections.

After cocktails, an after-party with a skyline view was held at the rooftop of the TriviumCity.

“I would like to thank all the participants, and especially our partners. This event was made for you”, says Anna Andersson, the pre-event hostess: “Also, I would like to thank Turku Technology properties for the venue. What a place, really top notch!”