Prague Event Hub has turned an internal donation drive into a collective act of social and environmental support.

A conference centre, a hotel, a shopping centre and leisure businesses are accustomed to bringing people together for meetings, congresses and corporate events. In Prague’s Pankrác district, the same network recently found another reason to mobilise: giving unwanted belongings a second life while raising support for Czech charities.

Employees across Prague Event Hub collected 149.12kg of clothing, books, toys, household goods and other items for Nadace Moment, a Czech foundation whose charity shops resell donated goods and channel the proceeds towards non-profit organisations.

The initiative brought together colleagues from Cubex Centre Prague, Conference Centre City, Panorama by Verdi Hotels, Arkády Shopping Mall and Form Factory. What began with people sorting through wardrobes, bookshelves and cupboards ultimately became a collective contribution extending beyond the businesses themselves.
 

From unwanted to useful

The quality of the donations was notable as well as their quantity. Only 1.51kg of the items collected was considered unsuitable for resale, earning the collection Nadace Moment’s highest rating, 1*.

“We know how much effort it takes to get colleagues across different buildings involved, explain why a collection matters and encourage everyone to sort through their belongings. That makes us all the more grateful for the energy Prague Event Hub brought to this initiative. They have rescued things that might otherwise have ended up as waste. Now those items will have a second life in our shops across the country, while helping the charities we support,” says Iveta Morávková of Nadace Moment.

The figures, however, only tell part of the story. At Cubex Centre Prague, which made the largest contribution among the participating businesses, individual generosity took a particularly practical form. Michal Soukup, director of Conference Centre City, was the largest individual donor, bringing in the highest number of items. His wife washed and cleaned the belongings before they were donated, even brushing the hair of the dolls among the toys.

That attention to detail captures something of the initiative’s character: the objects were not simply being discarded, but prepared to be useful to somebody else.

“In our work, we see every day what tens, hundreds or even a thousand people can achieve together. This time, we put that same spirit of collaboration to a different use. Everyone brought something of their own, and together it added up to nearly 150 kg of donations to help others. It means a great deal to us that Prague Event Hub is not just a shared offer from a group of venues on a map of Prague. We can also bring together the people behind those businesses,” says Eva Wade-Keszey, marketing director at Cubex Centrum Praha and organiser of the initiative.
 

A wider chain of support

The eventual beneficiaries extend well beyond those who will purchase the donated goods. Through Nadace Moment, proceeds support organisations working across hospice care, family support, early intervention and community services, as well as environmental and biodiversity conservation.

Among them are Mobilní hospic Ondrášek, which provides home-based end-of-life care; Fandi Mámám, supporting single mothers; Společnost pro ranou péči, Denní stacionář Žebřík, Czech Bikes for Gambian Schools, Platforma pro včasnou péči, Sdružení D and Nejste sami. Environmental beneficiaries include Česká koalice pro ochranu biodiverzity and Save Elephants.

The initiative required neither a major fundraising campaign nor a significant financial contribution. Its starting point was considerably simpler: looking at things that were no longer needed and considering what they might still mean to someone else.

For Prague Event Hub, the exercise also demonstrated another dimension of bringing its businesses together. The group already connects event space, accommodation, shopping and leisure within Pankrác. This time, the connection was between the people working behind those businesses, and what they could achieve collectively beyond their usual professional roles.

A box of games, a book or a toy left untouched at home may appear inconsequential. Given a second life, however, it can become part of a much larger chain of support, linking an ordinary household donation with hospice care, assistance for families and single mothers, or the protection of nature in the Czech Republic and beyond.
 

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Arinex has launched its INNOVATE Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026–2028, following formal endorsement by Reconciliation Australia and establishing a structured framework for advancing reconciliation across its business and event operations.

The Australian event management company has announced the launch of its INNOVATE Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026–2028, marking a significant step in its ongoing commitment to meaningful reconciliation and to strengthening the role of the business events industry in fostering cultural understanding and opportunity.

Endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, the plan provides Arinex with a framework through which reconciliation can be embedded more deeply into its operations, workplace culture and event delivery. The company says the RAP will focus on strengthening relationships, deepening cultural understanding and creating more meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and businesses.

The initiative reflects Arinex’s recognition of the capacity of business events to contribute to broader social and cultural outcomes. Through conferences, exhibitions, incentive programmes and corporate events, the sector can provide platforms for sharing First Nations cultures and perspectives with audiences from Australia and around the world.

A central element of the new RAP will be the development of a Reconciliation Event Framework, described by Arinex as a first-of-its-kind approach designed to introduce minimum reconciliation standards alongside optional cultural enhancements across events managed by the company.

Co-designed with First Nations advisors, the framework will provide guidance across areas including cultural acknowledgements, engagement of First Nations suppliers, opportunities for delegate education and culturally respectful event practices. Its purpose is to translate the principles of reconciliation into practical considerations that can be incorporated into the planning and delivery of events.

Jessica Ferguson, CEO of Arinex, said the RAP represents both a responsibility and an opportunity for the organisation.

“Through the events we deliver, we have an opportunity to showcase the richness of First Nations cultures to audiences from around Australia and the world. We are committed to ensuring reconciliation continues to be an integral part of how we do business and how we create experiences.”

The development of the RAP has been supported by First Nations leaders and advocates, whose guidance has helped shape the company's approach. Among them is Erica Smits, a Gamilaroi and Euahlayi woman and member of the Arinex RAP Working Group.

Smits has served as an advisor and supporter throughout the RAP development process. She recently graduated with an MBA (Social Impact) from the University of New South Wales and was honoured as the first Indigenous graduate invited to deliver the Acknowledgement of Country at a university graduation ceremony, described as a significant milestone in the institution’s history.

Her involvement reflects Arinex’s stated emphasis on elevating First Nations voices and perspectives as the company works to translate reconciliation commitments into organisational practice.

Over the next two years, Arinex will focus on three principal areas: strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders; increasing cultural capability across its workforce; and sharing its learnings with clients and industry partners.

The latter is intended to extend the potential impact of the RAP beyond Arinex itself, with the company seeking to contribute to wider conversations and practices around reconciliation across the business events sector.

Virginia Loyola, Director of Sales & Partnerships and RAP Champion, emphasised the importance of maintaining that commitment over the longer term. “This RAP is about moving beyond intent and ensuring reconciliation is embedded into our culture, our decision-making and the events we create.”

Through the RAP, Arinex aims to strengthen its own organisational practices while contributing to a business events industry that is more inclusive and culturally connected. The company identifies clients, delegates, suppliers and communities among those who can benefit from the meaningful outcomes it seeks to create through the programme.

Founded in 1973, Arinex is one of Australasia’s leading event management companies, delivering conferences, incentive programmes, corporate events and exhibitions. With teams across Australia and New Zealand, the company works with associations, corporations and other organisations to deliver events connecting people, ideas and communities across Australasia and internationally.
 

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The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and BestCities Global Alliance have named the International Hepato-Pancreato Biliary Association (IHPBA) as the recipient of the 2026 Incredible Impacts Programme (IIP) Seed Fund Grant, reinforcing the growing emphasis on what international association meetings can deliver long after delegates have left the venue.

The US$5,000 Seed Fund will support a new Legacy Project linked to the 17th Annual IHPBA World Congress, which will take place in Singapore from 28–31 October 2026 in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. At its core is a major healthcare challenge: disparities in hepatocellular carcinoma outcomes across low- and middle-income countries.

IHPBA intends to use the project to advance more equitable care through regionally tailored frameworks, collaboration and policy leadership. The initiative reflects the principle underpinning the Incredible Impacts Programme since its inception: that international association meetings can function as catalysts for sustained change, using the concentration of expertise, networks and decision-makers around a congress to address challenges that extend well beyond the event itself. Read the case study here

For ICCA CEO Dr. Senthil Gopinath, that potential is central to the programme’s purpose.

"International association meetings have the power to create lasting impact far beyond the event itself. IHPBA's Legacy Project is a powerful example of how a global congress can drive meaningful change and improve equity in healthcare. This is exactly the kind of initiative the Incredible Impacts Programme exists to recognise and support. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Incredible Impacts Programme judges, whose time, expertise, and commitment help shine a light on these inspiring stories and the positive difference associations are making around the world."

The Singapore congress provides a particularly relevant setting for the project, bringing together IHPBA’s international community in a region where the need for stronger and more equitable approaches to liver cancer care remains significant. The ambition is to use the congress as a platform for developing practical solutions and strengthening partnerships that can continue beyond the four-day event.

Loren Christie, Managing Director of BestCities Global Alliance, said: “IHPBA’s Legacy Project shows what can happen when expertise, collaboration and shared purpose rally around a pressing challenge. Through IHPBA 2026, the association is advancing more equitable cancer care across the Asia-Pacific region and creating impact that will extend well beyond the Congress. We’re proud to support this important work through the Incredible Impacts Programme Seed Fund.”

For IHPBA 2026 Legacy Project Chair and Congress President Dr. Shridhar Iyer, the measure of a successful congress extends beyond its scientific programme.

“A successful congress should be remembered not only for the science it presents, but for the lasting difference it creates. Through the IHPBA 2026 Legacy Project, we hope to leverage Singapore's strengths in healthcare, innovation and international collaboration to reduce inequities in liver cancer care across Asia-Pacific and across the globe. Our ambition is to move beyond discussion towards practical solutions that improve access, strengthen regional partnerships, and leave a legacy that continues long after the Congress has concluded.”

Three projects shortlisted for the 2026 Main Grant

Alongside the Seed Fund announcement, ICCA and BestCities have also revealed the three finalists for the 2026 Incredible Impacts Programme Main Grant.

Worth US$20,000, the Main Grant recognises an international association meeting demonstrating how business events can generate measurable and lasting positive impact. The three finalists will present their projects during a plenary session at the 2026 ICCA Congress in Panama City this November, giving the wider ICCA community an opportunity to examine the approaches, challenges and results behind each initiative.

The first finalist is the Autism Europe Congress 2025 in Dublin, which translated autism advocacy into practical and replicable action. Its work included new approaches to inclusive event design and inclusive employment practices, with the resulting legacy intended as a model that future congress hosts and other associations can adapt internationally.
 

Also shortlisted is the International Social Housing Festival 2025, Dublin. The Festival placed tenants’ lived experiences at the centre of housing policy and practice, producing a legacy that includes a replicable toolkit, stronger cross-sector collaboration and plans to extend tenant-led storytelling through a Europe-wide “living library”.

The third finalist, the WindEurope Annual Event 2025 in Copenhagen, addressed the wind sector’s growing STEM skills gap through education and hands-on learning. Its legacy already includes a toolkit being distributed across Europe, engagement with almost 550 children and parents, and plans to broaden the programme through portable EduKit Boxes for schools and future host cities.

Taken together, the finalists illustrate the increasingly broad territory occupied by the legacy agenda in association meetings. Healthcare equity, social inclusion, education and skills development sit alongside environmental progress, demonstrating that the potential impact of a congress is not confined to the professional community gathered around it.

The distinction between an event that discusses an issue and one that leaves behind mechanisms for addressing it is particularly evident across the three projects. Whether through inclusive employment practices, tools for tenant participation or educational resources that can travel between schools and destinations, each initiative seeks to convert the temporary concentration of people and expertise at a meeting into something that can be replicated and sustained.

The four 2026 IIP projects will now move into their respective next stages, with the IHPBA initiative receiving dedicated seed funding to develop its legacy ambitions, while the three Main Grant finalists prepare to put their projects before the global association meetings community.

They will take the stage at the 2026 ICCA Congress in Panama City this November, where delegates will hear directly about the initiatives, the challenges encountered in delivering them and the results achieved.

For ICCA and BestCities, the programme continues to make a case for a wider definition of congress success in which scientific exchange, business outcomes and delegate experience are complemented by the capacity of a meeting to create tangible benefits that endure after its closing session.
 

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The Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) has unveiled the third edition of its Global Manifesto, a significantly expanded advocacy framework that reflects how the business events industry is redefining its value proposition. Moving beyond traditional economic arguments, the updated publication positions meetings and congresses as strategic instruments for knowledge exchange, talent development, sustainability, destination competitiveness and long-term societal impact.

Originally launched in 2020 to support the sector's post-pandemic recovery and updated in 2023 to strengthen the industry's advocacy narrative, the latest edition responds to a rapidly evolving policy landscape. Drawing on the Events Industry Council's 2026 Global Economic Significance Study alongside research and contributions from organisations across the meetings sector, the Manifesto outlines 15 ways in which business events generate lasting value for governments, communities and destinations.

One of the publication's most notable developments is the integration of impact case studies from The Iceberg, JMIC's storytelling platform dedicated to demonstrating the long-term legacy of business events. While economic data continues to quantify the industry's contribution, these real-world examples seek to illustrate the less tangible—but equally significant—outcomes that conferences and congresses can leave behind, from strengthening local ecosystems to accelerating innovation and professional development.

The publication also places renewed emphasis on local advocacy. Rather than promoting a single universal message, the Manifesto proposes ten practical actions to help industry professionals adapt global narratives to regional and national priorities, enabling more meaningful engagement with policymakers and public authorities.

The third edition was developed by a dedicated JMIC working group led by Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO, with contributions from representatives of ICCA, UFI, IFES and Copenhagen Convention Bureau.

James Rees, President of JMIC, said: "JMIC's role in supporting the global business events industry is to provide a platform where the world's business events associations and industry stakeholders speak with one voice. The Global Manifesto is a detailed manifestation of such a platform which, having supported the industry in its recovery from the pandemic, has rightly been designed and adapted for the world in which we now operate and will be an invaluable tool for colleagues and stakeholders across all regions to support their advocacy work and demonstrate the powerful, lasting impact and legacy of business events."

Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO and Chair of the Manifesto Working Group, added: "This Manifesto takes a truly global perspective, while recognising that successful advocacy is ultimately delivered through relevant local messages. Drawing on research data from the Events Industry Council (EIC), the member associations of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) and others across the meetings and events sector, it has been designed as a practical and accessible guide, equipping meetings industry professionals with clear, adaptable messaging to support advocacy initiatives and stakeholder discussions, whether speaking as a member of one of our global meetings and events industry associations or advocating as an independent company. As CEO of IAPCO, we will be using the Manifesto ourselves, but will also be leveraging its content by sharing it with all of our members as we support them through their own grass-roots advocacy work."

The Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) is the global umbrella body for the major associations representing the business events industry. JMIC advocates for the recognition of conferences, trade shows and conventions as strategic economic assets, and leads the industry's Net Zero Carbon Events initiative targeting net zero emissions by 2050. T

he third edition of the JMIC Global Manifesto is now available to download from the organisation's website, while additional legacy case studies can be explored through The Iceberg platform.
 

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When it comes to celebrating the art behind the plate, The Best Chef Awards do not just serve accolades, they dish out a global feast of creativity, innovation, and humanity. From Dubai to Milan, this vibrant culinary network stirs together chefs, critics, and gastronomic visionaries, blending tradition with bold experimentation. With three knives instead of rankings, and a heart for social impact, the Awards cut through the ordinary to honour the people who make food matter.

Since their inception in 2015, The Best Chef Awards have established themselves as far more than a prize-giving ceremony: they are a global platform celebrating the artists behind the food. Co-founded by Polish neuroscientist Joanna Slusarczyk (PhD) and Italian gastronomist Cristian Gadau, the project aims to recognise creativity, innovation, and leadership in gastronomy. Beyond rankings and distinctions, The Best Chef brings together a vibrant community where chefs, critics, and hospitality professionals exchange ideas, challenge conventions, and inspire the next generation of culinary talent. As Joanna explains, the platform is “a point of reference for all lovers of gastronomy, a place to exchange knowledge and experience, and a forum to debate universal topics within our world.”

Milan 2025: A City as a Culinary Identity

After a journey through the flavours of the Middle East in Dubai, the ninth edition of The Best Chef Awards returned in October 2025 with a dramatic and inspiring setting, combining Italian tradition with global innovation. The 2025 chapter in Milan embodied this principle, standing as a manifesto to honour culinary legacies, explore new frontiers, and foster a future rooted in flavour, tradition, and transformation. The Best Chef Awards connect past, present, and future, bringing together established icons and emerging voices to create a truly global dialogue around gastronomy. The city’s celebrated gastronomic landscape – from acclaimed chefs such as Diego Rossi, Matias Perdomo and Davide Oldani to historic institutions like Peck, Marchesi 1824 and Camparino – perfectly embodied the balance between creativity, flavour, and evolution.

The programme began in Franciacorta, a prestigious wine region, with a series of talks connecting chefs with local producers and regional narratives. This was followed by the flagship event, the Awards Gala at Studio 90, a revitalised former aeroplane factory whose industrial charm reflected the forward-thinking yet authentic philosophy of The Best Chef. As Slusarczyk reflected: “Milan is more than a city. It embodies everything we stand for: tradition, creativity and a commitment to excellence. Recipes become stories, and stories become movements.”
 

Alongside the main awards, the team also ran The Best Pizza Awards four months earlier, highlighting culinary mastery in a dedicated event that gathers more than 500 international guests and over 300 renowned pizzaiolos. Visionaries such as Francesco Martucci, Franco Pepe and Gabriele Bonci were recognised, while special awards celebrated innovation, artistry, and social impact in pizza-making. As Gadau observed: “To witness the passion, dedication, and artistry of so many talented pizzaiolos gathered together has been profoundly inspiring.” This expansion illustrates the breadth of The Best Chef project, extending its principles of creativity, integrity, and community across different culinary spheres.

Celebrating People, Preserving Culture

At the heart of The Best Chef Awards lies the vision of its founders. Reflecting on the origins of the project, Joanna spoke of Cristian’s “teenage failed dream”, which collided with both his rebellious nature and the almost military discipline of the chef profession. What began as a personal ambition to become one of the world’s greatest chefs ultimately evolved into a commitment to honouring the people behind the food. “Cristian realised that most industry accreditations focus on restaurants, not on the chefs themselves, and he wanted to create something that celebrated the people behind the food.”

The community created by The Best Chef Awards seeks to shine a light on local ecosystems, which are often threatened by a corporate food system driven by profit and capable of destroying everything in its path. Speaking about the role of this community, Joanna emphasises: “We are convinced that our ambition is to be remembered as a project that defends and preserves the true values of our food culture.” This statement underlines the Awards’ mission: not just to celebrate culinary skill, but to champion ethical leadership and cultural preservation.

Best of Humanity: Social Impact at the Core

The Best Chef Awards bring together a global network of independent experts – including chefs, journalists, and food critics – to show the true independence and credibility of the awards’ label. “Chefs are evaluated on their food and all aspects of their work, including creativity, leadership, impact, ethics and sustainability. New talent is discovered naturally in our community by listening to what happens in kitchens, not just at dining tables,” she says. In turn, the three-knife system displays different levels of recognition instead of rigid rankings. The message is simple: “a significant shift towards greater transparency and fairness in the culinary world. Our update to the voting and ranking system follows a new approach to international chef accreditation.” In this way, the organisation moves away from numerical rankings in favour of a more inclusive, ethical, and representative assessment of culinary talent, based on qualitative attributes.

The Milan edition also debuted a new special honour: the Best of Humanity Award, which was presented to the chefs of World Central Kitchen, founded by José Andrés, in recognition of their extraordinary humanitarian work. Since 2010, the organisation has served more than 500 million fresh meals in some of the most urgent crises of our time, from Ukraine, Gaza, to Pakistan. The award reflects The Best Chef’s commitment to social responsibility and solidarity with chefs on the frontlines worldwide. As Slusarczyk emphasises: “We honoured the resilience and dedication of chefs who provide food relief, celebrating their commitment to feeding communities in challenging circumstances. Today, it is not enough to cook well; to be the best, a chef needs to show social, environmental, and ethical responsibility.”

Challenges, Growth, and Legacy

As is often the case with pioneering projects, the greatest challenge for The Best Chef was the widespread doubt and scepticism of their peers, which left Cristian and Joanna practically alone in this endeavour. As he recalls, “Although Joanna quickly joined me, I still remember how people initially thought we were crazy. We had a clear vision of what we wanted to achieve from the start, we never doubted ourselves, and I believe this unwavering confidence has been and continues to be our strength during the most challenging moments.” This early determination, rooted in a shared passion and a refusal to compromise on their vision, laid the foundation for what has become a globally respected platform celebrating culinary talent.
 

Joanna highlights the platform’s ambition to reach those outside the spotlight, describing Food Meets Science Development 2.0 as the next step in expanding its educational and cultural impact. “Next steps are to become more global and reach talents who are away from the spotlight and the awards' glam and glitz. We want to be heard and seen all year long, not just once a year during celebration, whether talking about food issues or discovering forgotten villages in Siberia.”

Looking ahead, the Awards aim to leave a lasting legacy in host cities, fostering cultural and gastronomic development beyond the gala itself. This year’s edition will follow in that spirit: “It is time to break down barriers and unite all key elements under a single city sky. We don’t want the event to last 48 hours and be forgotten; we want to leave a legacy.” As Joanna concludes, “The era of self-celebration is behind us, and the focus has shifted back to viewing food as a way to share within the community.”
 

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On 6 and 7 July, a dedicated space will be created at ROC van Amsterdam-Flevoland, located at Europaboulevard 13, showcasing how technology can contribute to healthy and active ageing © RAI Amsterdam

Population ageing is one of the defining societal challenges of our time, and Amsterdam is already preparing for its impact. During the IAGG World Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics, residents will have the opportunity to explore practical solutions through the temporary SmartHouse Experience, an interactive showcase demonstrating how technology can support healthier, more active and independent living as people age.

Visitors will also be able to take part in a unique ageing simulation, meeting their "older self" through immersive experiences designed to encourage earlier thinking about healthy ageing.

The IAGG World Congress takes place from 5 to 8 July at RAI Amsterdam. Organised by the Dutch Society for Gerontology, the Netherlands Clinical Geriatrics Society, the Professional organisation of Nurse Practitioners in Geriatrics and Gerontology, and Congress Care, the event aims to raise awareness of healthy ageing at a time when demographic change is reshaping cities across the world.

According to research by the Municipality of Amsterdam, the city's older population is set to grow rapidly over the coming decades. By 2050, nearly 20 per cent of Amsterdam residents are expected to be aged 65 or older, while the number of people aged between 75 and 84 is projected to increase by 56 per cent. At the same time, more older adults are living independently for longer, often alone, with 60 per cent of residents aged 65 and over living in homes with stairs or other physical barriers.

Amsterdam has been actively addressing these challenges since joining the WHO Age-Friendly Cities network in 2015, working towards becoming a city where people can grow older in comfort, good health and with continued independence.

Bringing science into everyday life

“At the IAGG Congress, the central question is: how can we ensure that people live longer, healthier, more active and independent lives in their own neighbourhood or city?” says Dr Geeske Peeters, senior researcher at Radboudumc and involved in the congress. “Healthy ageing is not only about preventing illness, but also about maintaining quality of life, independence and social connection. By bringing together science, practice and innovation, we can inspire people to take steps today towards their health tomorrow.”

Alongside the scientific programme, amsterdam&partners has developed the public impact programme Ageing independently in your own environment together with healthcare, knowledge and community partners. Designed to extend the congress beyond its venue, the initiative connects international expertise with local communities through a series of public activities around RAI Amsterdam.

“Having the global leaders in gerontology here gives Amsterdam the opportunity to exchange knowledge, build new partnerships and further strengthen our approach to healthy and independent ageing,” says Dennis Speet, Managing Director of the Amsterdam Convention Bureau at amsterdam&partners. “Through four public activities in the impact programme around the RAI, we ensure that this knowledge does not remain within the walls of the congress, but becomes directly accessible to Amsterdam residents.”

amsterdam&partners is a public-private foundation committed to a liveable, attractive, prosperous, sustainable and inclusive Amsterdam metropolitan area. The organisation achieves this by connecting stakeholders, sharing expertise and telling the city's story. The Amsterdam Convention Bureau is part of amsterdam&partners, supporting international congresses and business events in Amsterdam and focusing on events that deliver lasting social and economic value for the city and its sectors.
 

During the IAGG World Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics, the Smarthouse Experience and an ageing experiment will be open to visitors at RAI Amsterdam. Visitors can explore how technology helps people remain healthy, active and independent for longer, and even meet their ‘older self’. For example, it is possible to dance while wearing an ageing suit © RAI Amsterdam

Technology, movement and meeting your future self

On 6 and 7 July, ROC van Amsterdam-Flevoland (Europaboulevard 13) will host the SmartHouse Experience, offering visitors an interactive introduction to innovations that support healthy ageing and independent living.

The exhibition features a range of healthcare and wellbeing technologies, including gaming-based physical exercise, as well as systems using light, sound and music to encourage movement. Together, these innovations demonstrate how technology is helping both older adults and the next generation of healthcare professionals promote healthier, more active lives.

On 7 July, Leyden Academy will invite visitors to experience ageing in a different way. Taking place outside Entrance C of RAI Amsterdam, the activity allows participants to visualise their future appearance using an ageing filter, estimate their life expectancy and even dance while wearing an ageing suit, offering a hands-on perspective on the physical effects of growing older.

RAI Amsterdam is an international event and conference organisation. Since 1893, RAI Amsterdam has brought people together, connecting and inspiring them by organising and facilitating meaningful encounters. Whether it concerns a public event, a large conference, an international trade show, a dance event or a theatre performance. In 2025, nearly one and a half million visitors found their way to RAI Amsterdam. Last year, the RAI also won the Silver Award for ‘Exhibition Venue of the Year’ at the Exhibition News (EN) Awards 2025, the ‘Oscars’ of the exhibition industry. Visitors to RAI Amsterdam spend approximately €200 million annually in the city on hotels, taxis, public transport, hospitality and retail.

Stories of ageing and inclusion

The public programme also includes a film by the Amsterdam City Reporters, highlighting social initiatives that strengthen neighbourhood communities across the city.

Visitors can also explore Oudroze, an exhibition by Ernst Coppejans that celebrates the first openly LGBTI+ generations while encouraging conversations about visibility, ageing and inclusion.

The 23rd edition of the IAGG World Congress brings together more than 3,000 scientists, healthcare professionals and policymakers from around the world to exchange knowledge and develop solutions for the opportunities and challenges of an ageing society.
 

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Accessibility is becoming part of how the meetings industry defines event quality, destination competitiveness and long-term value. The discussion now reaches beyond ramps or adapted spaces into environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria, inclusive communication, universal design, employability, accessible tourism and the legacy events leave in host communities.

Accessible Event Design

Panama’s Social Innovation Role

  

Partnerships and Regional Recognition

Read our coverage of FIEXPO 2026.

  

Legacy In Action

For more information, visit www.letsmeetpanama.com.

The European project BEFuture, led by the Agència Catalana de Turisme, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award during IMEX Frankfurt, one of the world’s leading trade shows for the global meetings and events industry.

Destination Canada has unveiled the final results of its Business Events Legacy & Impact Study, a landmark multi-year research initiative that demonstrates how international business events (when intentionally designed) can generate measurable economic, social and environmental value far beyond tourism.

Launched in 2022, the three-year study examined 15 business events across Canada across six strategic sectors: advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, life sciences, natural resources, digital industries, and finance and insurance. The findings show that purpose-driven business events can influence policy, accelerate sector growth, and strengthen destination competitiveness on the global stage.

Building on insights gathered throughout earlier phases of the research, the study identified the core ingredients required to create meaningful long-term impact, including legacy drivers, intentional planning, collaborative delivery and clearly defined success factors.

“For decades, the business events industry has shared powerful stories about legacy,” said Virginie De Visscher. “Now we have the data, and a clear blueprint for delivering extraordinary event impact.”

The study’s key findings were presented at IMEX Frankfurt, one of the world’s leading platforms for the international business events industry, reinforcing Canada’s leadership in championing an impact-driven approach to meetings and conventions. The research also arrives at a time when Canada’s global reputation continues to grow as a welcoming, stable and forward-looking destination for international meetings, conventions and incentive travel.
 

Over the course of the three-year initiative, the study revealed that:

• Business events generate impact across eight interconnected domains, extending well beyond direct economic return
• Impact develops as a chain reaction, transforming events into long-term influence
• Legacy must be intentionally designed, collaboratively delivered and actively stewarded
• Eighteen strategic accelerators can expand and deepen impact across sectors and systems
• Diverse perspectives embedded in event design and governance strengthen legacy outcomes

The research also aligns with broader national priorities, including the Canadian Business Events Sustainability Plan, supporting efforts to reduce environmental impact while maximizing long-term economic and societal value.

“Case studies within the research demonstrate how business events are powerful catalysts for change — from influencing climate policy frameworks and advancing scientific research partnerships to mobilizing community engagement and strengthening global collaboration,” added De Visscher. “This research highlights how, with the right approach, meetings and conventions can deliver measurable impact beyond economics.”

At IMEX Frankfurt, Destination Canada also unveiled a new case study examining the impact of the 11th International Conference on Isotopes, held in Saskatoon in 2023. The case study highlights the event’s enduring legacy, where global leaders in nuclear science came together to strengthen isotope supply chains, accelerate innovation in cancer treatment, and advance international collaboration.
 

Together, the findings confirm that impact is not accidental — it is engineered. When intentionally designed, business events can become powerful instruments for shaping policy, accelerating sector growth and strengthening destination competitiveness for the future.
 

The final report, including collated evidence and case studies, is available here.

Business Events Legacy & Impact Study Overview 

Year One Findings 

The first phase of the study established that by leveraging four key factors, business events can create a positive policy, financial and intellectual legacy that drives transformational impact: 

Pre-event Activities 
Pre-event workshops, advocacy campaigns, seminars and community engagement initiatives were shown to strengthen participation, awareness and long-term outcomes before conferences even began. 

Government Participation 
The involvement of elected officials, policy announcements and government-supported initiatives often increased policy influence, funding opportunities and long-term societal impact. 

Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) Involvement 
DMOs played a critical role in shaping event legacy by convening stakeholders, investing in long-term strategies and aligning conferences with local priorities and community needs. 

External Collaboration 
Collaboration between organizers, industry, academia, community groups and destination partners expanded networks, increased participation and strengthened long-term outcomes. 
 

Year Two Findings 

Building on Year One, the second phase identified the essential elements required to intentionally design and deliver long-term legacy and impact including: 

Legacy Drivers 
The study identified nine core legacy drivers that help business events generate both immediate and sustained outcomes: knowledge transfer, capacity building, sector innovation, legacy frameworks, diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, showcasing local expertise, sustainable practices, community engagement and advocacy activities. 

Success Factors 
Year Two confirmed that the four success factors identified in Year One — pre-event activities, government participation, DMO involvement and external collaboration — consistently amplified social, intellectual and policy impact when strategically integrated into event planning. 

Profound Outcomes 
The study found that while every business event is unique, the most common outcomes consistently emerged across six categories: social, intellectual, policy, human, financial and cultural impact. 

Intentional Planning 
Events designed with clearly defined legacy objectives consistently delivered broader and more meaningful outcomes. Strategic alignment between stakeholders, messaging, programming and community priorities proved essential to maximizing long-term impact. 

Year Three Findings 

The final phase of the study consolidated three years of research into a blueprint for how business events can intentionally create extraordinary impact. 

Key final takeaways include: 

• Business events generate impact across eight domains, far beyond economic return
• Impact unfolds as a chain reaction, transforming events into sustained influence
• Legacy must be intentionally designed, collaboratively delivered and actively stewarded
• 18 strategic accelerators expand and deepen impact across systems and sectors
• Diverse perspectives embedded in event design and governance strengthen legacy 
   

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Poznań, Greater Poland Voivodeship, Poland

Poland will host the 2026 edition of Spotlight on Poland from 15 to 19 June, bringing together international meeting planners, association representatives and suppliers for a multi-city programme across Poznań and Szczecin.

Now in its fifth edition, the event will once again follow a hosted buyer format, while introducing a stronger integration with the GDS Forum and Impact Day 2026. The programme is structured around the theme “Value, Relevance and Impact”, reflecting a broader industry focus on the long-term role of business events.

The first part of the programme will take place in Poznań, where participants will engage in destination presentations, site visits and pre-arranged meetings with local and national suppliers. As in previous editions, the format is designed to facilitate direct business exchange between buyers and the Polish meetings industry.

The programme will then move to Szczecin, where participants will join the GDS Forum and Impact Day. This segment will focus on topics including sustainability, legacy, community engagement and the wider societal role of events. Sessions are expected to include workshops, discussions and collaborative formats involving destinations, associations and industry stakeholders.
 

The integration of both events reflects a growing alignment between destination promotion and impact-led discussions within the meetings sector. By combining a traditional hosted buyer programme with a forum focused on sustainability and governance, the format aims to provide both commercial and strategic perspectives.

Szczecin has been positioned as a case study within the programme, with organisers highlighting its ongoing urban development and sustainability initiatives. The city will host the GDS Forum component, including its awards programme and thematic sessions.

Across the full programme, participants will have access to networking activities, educational sessions and site visits, alongside opportunities to engage with local stakeholders and suppliers.

The combined format also reflects a wider trend in the industry, where events are increasingly expected to demonstrate not only economic value, but also measurable environmental and social outcomes.

Spotlight on Poland is organised by the Poland Convention Bureau, with support from regional partners and international industry organisations involved in the GDS Forum.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Destinations International launches its first Virtual Advocacy Day on May 13, 2026, uniting global stakeholders to redefine advocacy across the destination sector through collaboration, tools, and shared impact.

(Left to right: Natalie Reeves-Billing, Guest of High Sheriff of Merseyside, High Sheriff of Merseyside, Billy Hui, His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, Peter Oliver OBE.)

Professionals across the Liverpool City Region are being encouraged to join a growing network of academics, clinicians and industry leaders helping to secure major national and international conferences for the region, as Club Liverpool celebrates the achievements of its ambassador community.

Club Liverpool is a partnership between Liverpool Convention Bureau and ACC Liverpool, soon to be known as the Liverpool Experience Campus. Together, the partners support ambassadors in attracting high-profile conferences that strengthen the region’s knowledge economy, global reputation and visitor economy.

The Club Liverpool Ambassador Programme is open to experts who wish to contribute to the continued growth of the region’s research, innovation and business landscape. Membership is free, and ambassadors receive dedicated support from Liverpool Convention Bureau, including bid development, venue sourcing, sustainability guidance and legacy planning.

The call for new ambassadors comes as the programme recognises the outstanding contribution of its existing members at the annual Club Liverpool Ambassador Recognition Event, where the city region’s academic, clinical and professional community was celebrated for delivering significant economic and reputational benefits.

More than 80 guests attended the ceremony, including the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Barbara Murray, the High Sheriff, the Lord Lieutenant, senior business leaders, university representatives and key partners from across the region. The event highlighted the achievements of ambassadors who voluntarily use their influence to attract high-profile conferences to the Liverpool City Region.

These conferences play a vital role in strengthening Liverpool’s research reputation, supporting local jobs, driving visitor spend and positioning the region as a globally connected hub for innovation and knowledge exchange. Attendees also benefited from the opportunity to connect with peers, share best practice and explore future collaborations that support the region’s long-term economic and research ambitions.

Howard Lewis (pictured below), Chair of Club Liverpool, opened the ceremony with a powerful address reflecting on the programme’s achievements and the importance of collaboration in a rapidly evolving global events landscape. He said, “Liverpool’s strength lies in its partnerships, shared ambition and collective belief that the city deserves to shine. Ambassadors play an essential role in strengthening Liverpool’s research reputation, supporting local jobs and driving economic value and we thank them for their dedication.”
 

Reflecting the importance of partnership working, Faye Dyer, CEO at The ACC Liverpool Group and Business Events Representative on the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership Board, said: “ACC Liverpool is proud to work alongside Liverpool Convention Bureau in supporting the Club Liverpool Ambassador Programme. Ambassadors play a crucial role in bringing world-class conferences to our city, and their work directly contributes to the growth of our visitor economy, industry sector strengths, and the international profile of Liverpool City Region. As we transition to the Liverpool Experience Campus, our commitment to supporting this community and helping them deliver exceptional events remains stronger than ever.”

Fourteen ambassador-led conferences hosted in 2025 were recognised, with 38 certificates presented to individuals and organisations who played a key role in securing and delivering these events. Collectively, these conferences attracted 22,220 delegates and generated £14.8 million in economic impact for the Liverpool City Region.

The events represented a wide range of sectors, including health and life sciences, actuarial science, socio-legal studies, accelerator science, environmental research, children’s learning and data science. Many of the conferences supported early-career researchers, strengthened international research networks and delivered long-term benefits for local communities and institutions.

Reflecting on the importance of the sector, Lisa Owen of Liverpool Convention Bureau, said: “Business tourism is a vital economic driver for the Liverpool City Region. Conferences bring high-value visitors who stay longer, spend more and engage deeply with our universities, hospitals and industries. The knowledge exchange, investment potential and international connections generated by these events have a lasting impact on our economy and our global reputation. The achievements of our ambassadors demonstrate the power of collaboration and the strategic importance of attracting world-class events to our region.”

Howard Lewis also highlighted the long-term success of the programme. Over the past 11 years, Club Liverpool ambassadors have secured 115 major conferences, welcomed 78,000 delegates and generated more than £115 million in economic impact. The future pipeline remains strong, with major events already confirmed through to 2029, including the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry, the European Group for Organisational Studies (EGOS) and the International Particle Accelerator Conference (IPAC).

Becoming a Club Liverpool Ambassador offers individuals the opportunity to play an active role in shaping the future of the Liverpool City Region while benefiting from a strong network of peers across academia, healthcare, research and industry. Ambassadors are invited to exclusive events and networking opportunities throughout the year and receive regular insights and updates that keep them connected to developments across the region. Members also gain access to free support from Liverpool Convention Bureau, including assistance with bid creation, venue finding, accommodation booking, sustainability guidance and legacy planning, as well as expert advice to help bring conferences and events to the city region. Joining the programme is quick, easy and free, providing a meaningful way to contribute to the region’s global profile and long-term success.
 

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WhatsApp became the backbone for the International Society for Professional Innovation Management (ISPIM) as part of its engagement strategy in Bergen, Norway, turning 500 innovation professionals into active communities even before the conference began. Seven ‘tribes’ sparked instant connection, effortless networking, and a lively onsite atmosphere. With tribe leaders, playful challenges, and a creative Viking-themed campaign, the approach proved that powerful engagement does not require big budgets, just tools people could use.

Author: Sina Bünte – Events Strategist & Manager

Rethinking Event Communication

During the ISPIM Innovation Conference in June, held in Bergen, we welcomed around 500 innovation professionals from across the globe. As an external consultant supporting ISPIM, my brief was clear: develop an engagement approach that would activate the community before the event and strengthen peer-to-peer interaction onsite.

The official conference app included many of the features you would expect, including push notifications, but it was not used by the client for real-time communication. To fill that gap, and to create a more human, dynamic space for participants, I introduced WhatsApp groups as the backbone of our engagement strategy.

For events with limited budgets, this approach is particularly powerful, WhatsApp is free, widely used, and requires no technical setup. Yet its impact can be substantial.

Launching the Bergen ‘Tribes’

We opened seven WhatsApp groups, or ‘tribes’, one week before the conference. Each tribe was named after one of Bergen’s seven mountains, giving them a sense of identity from the start. Over 70% of attendees joined, and the momentum built instantly.

People began introducing themselves, coordinating transport, sharing local tips, and discovering common interests. As moderator of all groups, I could distribute updates quickly and ensure everyone felt supported. But the most rewarding aspect was how fast the groups became self-sustaining. Participants helped each other, answered questions, and exchanged advice long before they ever stepped into the venue.
 

Creating a Connected Onsite Experience

Once in Bergen, the value of the tribes became even more visible. Each attendee wore a badge displaying their tribe, which made sparking conversations effortless. Our seven-task networking game added an element of fun, whether asking people to take a selfie with their tribe members or share a LinkedIn post. The WhatsApp groups lit up with photos, reactions, and encouragement.

To guide newer attendees, every tribe included a designated ‘tribe leader,’ a returning participant who acted as an informal mentor. This structure supported both first-timers and regulars, helping everyone feel part of something bigger.

As ISPIM’s Executive Director, Iain Bitran, remarked: “It was great seeing members communicating already before the event and the buzz during the event with sharing photos and trying to complete the tasks.”
 

Sina Bünte at the ISPIM Innovation Conference
 

A Space That Lives Beyond the Event

What quickly became apparent is that WhatsApp is more than a communication tool, it is a community space. It allows for dialogue rather than broadcasts, and individuality rather than formality. In contrast to an event app, where interactions typically flow one way, WhatsApp encourages exchanges that feel spontaneous and natural.

The tribes were also designed to continue after the conference, and many participants chose to stay in them, using the groups to maintain connections, share follow-up insights, and support future collaborations.
 

The Broader Engagement Strategy

Of course, WhatsApp was just one part of a broader engagement campaign I developed for ISPIM. The Viking-themed #BeInBergen campaign, AI-generated Viking avatars created with Snapmatic, weekly social media content, and playful character videos all helped generate excitement and strengthen the community spirit leading into the event.
 

What Organisers Can Learn

For event organisers looking to deepen engagement without increasing costs, WhatsApp groups offer a practical and highly effective solution. They require no additional platform investment, they meet attendees where they already are, and they encourage a level of interaction that formal tools often struggle to achieve.

The experience in Bergen showed how a simple social media platform can bring people together, enhance the atmosphere onsite, and extend the community well beyond the closing session.

When used thoughtfully, WhatsApp can turn hundreds of individuals into a connected, active network, even on a tight budget.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Aileen Crawford launching the programme at the SCOTO Conference on 6 March with team members (left to right) Anna Young, Nicola Muir, Tracey Martin and Carron Tobin, Executive Director of SCOTO

Glasgow Convention Bureau has unveiled a major new initiative designed to help conference organisers and delegates create meaningful social and environmental impact when meeting in the city.

Revealed at the 2026 SCOTO Conference — the first time the Scottish Community Tourism Conference has been hosted in an urban setting — In Glasgow, Meetings Mean More brings together the city’s social and environmental impact services under one clear framework, making it easier for planners to embed responsible and regenerative principles into their events.

The programme consolidates Glasgow Convention Bureau’s existing support on sustainability, legacy, and community engagement into four connected pillars: Sustainable, Impactful, Equitable, and Socially Responsible. Through this initiative, organisers gain access to UN Sustainable Development Goal workshops, guidance on greener delegate choices, connections to local charities and social enterprises, and support from the Glasgow Conference Impact Network to develop positive legacy activities linked to their event.

A new Community and Social Enterprise Map has also been developed, helping delegates identify local organisations, tours, venues, and suppliers whose income directly supports community initiatives. By directing delegates toward purpose-led enterprises during their free time, the initiative encourages spending that benefits the community rather than purely economic outcomes.

Carron Tobin, Executive Director of the Scottish Community Tourism Network, said: “SCOTO’s ambition is to recalibrate tourism to deliver for Scotland’s communities and our environment first and foremost. This vision is as important to urban communities as it is to rural, so we were delighted when the team in Glasgow suggested they host our first urban SCOTO Conference in March 2026. SCOTO delegates benefitted from a day of Learning Exchanges, visiting inspirational Glasgow based charities and social enterprises that do good in their community by benefitting from the visitor or delegate, as well as local spend.
 

“The In Glasgow Meetings Mean More initiative is a great and practical example of where the Glasgow Convention Bureau is helping delegates find a local enterprise in their free time; for city tours, refreshments, or locally made gifts, knowing these purchases directly support the community that the local enterprises are helping.”

Aileen Crawford, Head of Tourism & Conventions at Glasgow Convention Bureau, added: “The Scottish Community Tourism Conference is the ideal place to launch the In Glasgow, Meetings Mean More initiative. As the first urban location to host a Community Tourism conference, the Glasgow Convention Bureau were keen to embrace the ethos of community tourism by guiding delegates to spend with local enterprises that have a mission to do good in their community.”

Among the featured organisations is the National Piping Centre, an internationally recognised charity and cultural venue in the heart of Glasgow.

Natalie Johnston, General Manager of The National Piping Centre (see above), said: “As a charity, The National Piping Centre exists to enrich lives through piping by preserving Scotland’s musical heritage while ensuring access to education and cultural expression for people of all backgrounds. Income generated through our venue, learning programmes and visitor experiences is reinvested into community outreach, youth education and widening participation, helping future generations engage with piping and Scotland’s cultural traditions.”

Glasgow has built a strong international reputation for delivering conference legacy and measurable impact through partnerships with academia, charities, venues, and government. By presenting its impact support under a single, client-facing framework, Glasgow Convention Bureau aims to make it easier for organisers to align their events with organisational values around sustainability, equity, and social responsibility, while delivering tangible benefits to the host destination.

Further information on embedding social and environmental impact into conferences hosted in Glasgow is available here
 

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 ICCA is spearheading a global initiative to develop a Global Impact Measurement Tool for Association Conferences. The framework aims to quantify the social, scientific and economic value generated by association meetings, capturing benefits that go far beyond traditional tourism metrics.

ICCA is advancing a global effort to help the business events industry better define and demonstrate the wider societal value of association conferences. Although these gatherings are often perceived mainly as drivers of tourism, their real contribution extends well beyond visitor numbers. They accelerate progress across sectors, enable knowledge exchange, attract talent, influence policy discussions, and support long-term social and scientific development.

Despite this, many of these broader impacts remain insufficiently recognised. For governments, policymakers and strategic partners, clear and measurable evidence is essential when making decisions about investment in infrastructure, destination development and marketing. If the business events industry is to secure continued support and reinforce its strategic importance, it must be able to clearly articulate how conferences contribute to knowledge economies, industry growth and community wellbeing.
 

Project Highlights

• Develop a rigorous, globally applicable measurement tool that provides clear, credible evidence of the multifaceted impact of association conferences.

• Enable members to demonstrate the value that meetings and events bring to their destinations using consistent, trustworthy data.

• Equip the industry with evidence-based insights that showcase how conferences fuel innovation, knowledge exchange, economic growth, and social progress far beyond tourism.

Working alongside co-founders Barcelona Convention Bureau, Copenhagen Convention Bureau, Flanders Convention Bureau, Business Events Sydney and Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau, ICCA will develop the tool through a comprehensive methodology grounded in academic research and industry expertise.

The research is being led by Professor Carmel Foley; Adjunct Professor Deborah Edwards; and Dr. Anja Hergesell from the University of Technology Sydney, together with Professor Nina Iversen of BI Norwegian Business School and Professor Leif Hem from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH).

The initiative is expected to deliver a validated global impact measurement tool by mid-2028.

ICCA’s role in the project reflects its broader commitment to strengthening the strategic positioning of the global business events sector while supporting member destinations in demonstrating long-term value and policy relevance. The resulting framework will generate valuable insights for stakeholders across the business events ecosystem, including governments, convention bureaus and associations.

By collaborating with leading researchers and convention bureau partners, ICCA is helping shape a stronger future for the international association meetings community—one in which the true value of conferences is recognised worldwide.
 

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Cutlers Hall © MollyLow | VisitBritain

MeetEngland, part of VisitEngland, launched the MeetEngland Impact Network on 12 February 2026. Held at the Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield, representatives from 15 cities across the country joined 19 ambassadors and five industry colleagues to celebrate the experts, innovators and thought leaders who help position England as a world-leading knowledge destination.

The MeetEngland Impact Network is a national initiative to recognise, connect and elevate the academic and sector leaders who play a pivotal role in securing high-value international business events for England. In a global marketplace where destinations are increasingly chosen for their knowledge, research excellence, and professional expertise as much as their overall product offering, England benefits from strong partnerships between cities, universities, research institutions, and industry experts. These collaborations highlight not only where events can take place, but how England can draw global experts through its sector and academic leadership.

The new MeetEngland Impact Network builds on this strength. By recognising, connecting and showcasing these academic and sector leaders, the network ensures England’s intellectual capital is visible, valued and strategically leveraged. Through 13 city-led ambassador or sector network programmes involving more than 2,500 active leaders in England, these partnerships have helped secure more than 280 new international conferences since 2022 – highlighting the critical role these leaders play in driving long-term economic, social and innovation impact.

Paul Black, Head of Business Events at VisitBritain & VisitEngland said: “These figures tell an important story. They highlight the depth of expertise across cities in England, and the high-level impact that committed leaders can make when they work in partnership with their cities. The MeetEngland Impact Network has been created to recognise, connect and amplify this national community.

“By aligning our strengths and working together, we can amplify England’s impact on the global stage and ensure our cities remain at the forefront of international knowledge exchange.”

Gemma Tissington, Senior Conference Executive at Marketing Sheffield added: “Sheffield is delighted to host the launch of the MeetEngland Impact Network at the historic Cutlers’ Hall. Our strong partnerships with universities, research institutions and sector leaders ensure that our ambassador community plays a pivotal role in securing high-value international conferences, positioning Sheffield as a city of knowledge, innovation and expertise. It is wonderful to see this new national network recognising and enhancing the important role ambassadors play within England’s business events sector.”
 

The launch event, held on 12 February 2026, included a welcome from the Leader of the Sheffield City Council, Tom Hunt, two panel sessions that gave attendees the opportunity to hear from both destinations and ambassadors – giving insight on how conferences were won, delivered and leveraged for wider impact and how collaboration drives success. The event also saw the unveiling of the first MeetEngland Roll of Honour – a celebratory initiative that recognised nine outstanding ambassadors nominated by their cities for their exceptional contribution to securing international events for England.

Professor Kirsty Fairclough, Professor of Screen Studies; SODA Research and Innovation Lead, School of Digital Arts, Manchester Metropolitan University, added: "The launch of the MeetEngland Impact Network highlights the critical role that intellectual capital plays in securing our position as a global leader in innovation. My experience working with the Manchester Convention Bureau to win the MeCCSA Conference and multiple other event bids has shown me the power of collaboration between academia and destination experts.

For me, being an Mbassador is an honour that allows us to shine a light on Manchester’s expertise in digital arts and cultural studies on the world stage. I urge my peers across all sectors to step forward as ambassadors. Partnering with your city’s bureau opens doors to new collaborations and provides the platform needed to bring prestigious, high-value events to our doorsteps."

At the launch event, attendees also explored the vision and ambitions of the Impact Network – designed to connect expertise, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful outcomes for both destinations and business events across England. The Network’s objectives were highlighted as follows:

• Elevate and showcase academic and sector leaders who work with cities to secure new business events for England;
• Demonstrate the intellectual and professional diversity that defines England’s strengths globally;
• Champion the wider impact of business events - driving innovation, investment and growth far beyond the conference halls;
• Connect leaders and open new doors, widening networks and collaborations that support cities in delivering these outcomes.

Following the launch of the network, the MeetEngland team alongside their city partners seek to develop stronger links between different ambassadors across England, communicate potential opportunities and exchange insights.

For more information on the MeetEngland Impact Network please visit the website

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) is marking a very special milestone this festive season, celebrating the 10th year of its much-loved Build a Bike charity event. A tradition that transforms the Centre into a lively workshop filled with tools, teamwork and two-wheeled joy.

On Wednesday 10 December, GCCEC’s team and partners will once again get hands-on, building 87 brand-new bikes for children supported by Act for Kids. Boxes are opened, tools come out, parts are sorted, and within hours every bike is assembled, checked and ready to spark joy for a local child this Christmas.

What began in 2016 as a simple idea has become a cornerstone GCCEC community tradition. Each year, volunteers gather around workbenches surrounded by wheels, tools and bike parts, turning flat-packed boxes into ready-to-ride bicycles. To date, more than 500 bikes have been built and donated through the event.

Adding to the magic, each child will also receive books, games and toys collected through the annual GCCEC Toy Drive, helping make Christmas morning even brighter for families facing hardship.

Event production and management company Dreamweavers will again donate their time and vehicles to help deliver the bikes, while local Gold Coast business Mike’s Bikes will provide expert guidance to ensure each bike is safe and ready for its new owner.

Dr Katrina Lines, CEO of Act for Kids, said the 10th year of Build a Bike demonstrated the extraordinary impact of collective generosity.

“This incredible display of community spirit simply wouldn’t be possible without GCCEC and the many local businesses, services, individuals, organisations and sponsors who’ve come together this year. Act for Kids is truly grateful for their support."

“For some of these children, these gifts may be the only presents waiting for them under the Christmas tree. Bikes are a wonderful way to support a child’s physical development, but they also help build social skills by creating opportunities for kids to connect and play with others.”

Nick Jeffrey, General Manager of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre said the heart of Build a Bike has always been community.

“Build a Bike has become one of our most meaningful traditions. Celebrating this milestone  is a testament to the generosity of our team, partners and Gold Coast community. This event goes far beyond bikes. It’s about creating smiles, relieving pressure for families and giving children a moment of pure happiness, and that is something we are incredibly honoured to drive.”
 

Real impact, real voices

For many families, Build a Bike delivers more than just a present — it creates moments that stay with them long after Christmas Day.

A little girl’s words said it all: “It was the best Christmas, because I got my bike.”

A mother, whose children received bikes, shared through tears of joy: “It means they get to have the Christmas they deserve, and it takes a lot of pressure off me trying to find the extra money to make their Christmas special.”

A teenager added: “I’m so happy to have a bike to ride to my friend’s house and to school.”

As GCCEC celebrates a decade of Build a Bike, the event continues to show that when a community comes together, small actions can create powerful and lasting change for children who need it most.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

© Photos courtesy of Geneva Tourism & Conventions Foundation

IAS 2027, the 14th IAS Conference on HIV Science, will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, and virtually from 11 to 15 July 2027, IAS – the International AIDS Society – announced. Around 5,000 people from more than 130 countries are expected to attend.

“We now have a game - changing toolkit that includes long - acting treatment and prevention options that could end the HIV pandemic. But for many of the people who need them the most, these innovations remain behind a door locked by abiding access issues and shrinking funding,” IAS 2027 International Co-Chair and IAS President - Elect Kenneth Ngure said. Ngure is an Associate Professor of Global Health and immediate former Dean of the School of Public Health at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya. 

“IAS 2027 will bring together scientists, programme leaders, policy makers and communities in Geneva, long known as a hub for global health and human rights,” he said. “Together, we will take stock of the latest discoveries, chart progress in building and rebuilding research and programmes, and find the key to opening the door so that these tools reach everyone, everywhere.”

“Hosting IAS 2027 in Geneva at this critical time makes perfect sense,” IAS 2027 Local Co-Chair Alexandra Calmy said. Calmy is the head of the HIV Unit in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Geneva University Hospitals (HUG). “It will give us a solid platform for global collaboration in the HIV response and renewing and building partnerships to take us forward.”

IAS – the International AIDS Society – convenes, educates and advocates for a world in which HIV no longer presents a threat to public health and individual well - being. After the emergence of HIV and AIDS, concerned scientists created the IAS to bring toge ther experts from across the world and disciplines to promote a concerted HIV response. Today, the IAS and its members unite scientists, policy makers and activists to galvanize the scientific response, build global solidarity and enhance human dignity for all those living with and affected by HIV.
 

The IAS Conference on HIV Science is the world’s most influential meeting on HIV research and its applications. Through its open and inclusive programme, the meeting sets the gold standard of HIV science, featuring latest HIV research and innovations that move science into policy and practice. IAS 2027, the 14th IAS Conference on HIV Science, Geneva, Switzerland, and virtually from 11 to 15 July 2027, with pre-conferences on 11 July. Up to 5,000 people from more than 130 countries are expected to attend.

Geneva has a history of hosting leading public health and human rights organizations, including international organizations and NGOs central to the HIV response. The HUG and its specialized HIV Unit in the Infectious Disease Division ensure comprehensive a nd non - discriminatory care for all. The city is also home to the “Geneva patient”, one of 10 people considered “cured” of HIV.

Switzerland is among several high - income countries nearing the 95 -95- 95 targets. HIV prevalence is low at 0.2%. New acquisitions have dropped by 20% since 2010, with fewer than 500 in 2023, and AIDS - related deaths by 19%, with fewer than 100 in 2023.

The country’s response to HIV is grounded in human rights and evidence, and it sets a high global standard in dignity and rights for key populations. It is a leader in harm reduction for people who use drugs; sex work is legal; the process of legally chang ing gender has been simplified; reintegration of people who have been in prison is supported through training programmes; same - sex marriage is legal; and people living with HIV have good access to healthcare and professional support.

Registration for IAS 2027 will open in November 2026. For more information about IAS 2027, visit the website

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Eighty innovation projects developed by SMEs across Europe are being unveiled at IBTM, offering practical, ready-to-deploy solutions to make the business events sector more sustainable, inclusive and resilient. This comes at a decisive moment for the sector, as venues, destinations and organisers accelerate their transition towards low-carbon, tech-enabled business models.

BEFuture, an EU-funded initiative under the Single Market Programme (SMP), has invested €2.4 million to accelerate these projects and bring real, market-ready tools to the industry. From ride-sharing widgets to woman-led ocean conservation, from smart cloakrooms to real-time transcription and even green toilets: virtually every aspect of an event’s life cycle has been addressed with a fresh perspective. Each solution has been co-created in close collaboration with event-sector stakeholders to ensure relevance and practical applicability.

Together, the 80 projects address the most critical transformation priorities facing the business events industry. Developed over several months of collaboration across six European regions, the solutions focus on four strategic pillars: 

• Climate change & circularity – net-zero strategies, circular materials, sustainable logistics
• Talent & inclusion – skills development, accessible design, diversity activation
• Event experience – intelligent digital tools, hybrid integration, personalisation
• Governance & impact – measurable legacy, cross-sector models, profitability, tech access

All 80 projects were showcased during IBTM 2025 from 18 to 20 November at BEFuture Discovery, where teams demonstrate their solutions live every morning, as well as on Tuesday afternoon. Moreover, 29 selected BEFuture start-ups pitched to industry audiences on the IBTM Future Stage and exhibiting in the IBTM Ignite Area. A networking event took place on Wednesday at the Ignite Lounge where innovators, potential clients, and investors will meet in a relaxed setting.

“SMEs across Europe have stepped up with tangible solutions to real problems,” said Sònia Serracarbassa, Director of the Catalunya Convention Bureau at the Catalan Tourist Board, which coordinates the BEFuture project. “This EU-supported initiative is delivering practical innovation that will help the sector become more sustainable, inclusive and future ready.”
 

The BEFuture Acceleration Programme

The BEFuture Acceleration Programme provided up to €30 000 in funding per selected project, alongside technical mentoring and access to an international innovation network. Open to SMEs from Belgium (Flanders), France, Germany, Italy, Spain (Catalonia) and the Netherlands, the programme advances the EU’s Tourism Transition Pathway by scaling solutions with demonstrable impact.
 

About BEFuture

BEFuture is a three-year project co-funded by the European Commission aiming to transform the business events sector and make it future-ready by harnessing the power of digitisation and fostering continuous innovation. Its goal is to create a new business model that strengthens the sustainability, digitalisation and resilience of the sector. By co-designing solutions with the entire business events ecosystem, we aim to make a positive and enduring impact.

BEFuture is implemented by a partnership of 8 partners from 6 countries: Catalan Tourist Board/Catalan Convention Bureau (Spain), Tipik Communication Agency (Belgium), Visit Flanders (Belgium), Linkeus (France), Verband der Veranstaltungsorganisatoren (Germany), NHL Stender/European Tourism Futures Institute (Netherlands), UNIMIB – Milano University (Italy) and B.Link Barcelona Strategic Projects (Spain).
 

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Nearly all disabled delegates — a striking 93% — still face obstacles when attending events, according to groundbreaking research released by The Business of Events and ICC Wales, with support from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Events.

Unveiled on 19 November at IBTM World, the report 'Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events' reveals a stark mismatch between how accessible venues believe they are and what delegates actually encounter on the ground.

Surveying 1,000 delegates who had attended an event in the past six months, the study found that almost one in three identified as having a visible or non-visible disability. Of those, an overwhelming majority reported barriers that hindered their participation.

The most common challenges included inaccessible event layouts (28%), a lack of accessible toilets (24%), insufficient staff training (25%), overstimulating environments (27%), and missing or unclear accessibility information (17%).

More than 100 venues also took part in the research. While the majority reported offering step-free access (82%), accessible toilets (91%), and disability awareness training for staff (75%), and over half confirmed they have an accessibility or inclusion policy (57%), the findings highlight a persistent disconnect between venue confidence and delegate reality.

Cost emerged as another key tension point. Almost half of venues (46%) admitted they sometimes charge for accessibility-related adjustments—such as gender-neutral toilets or ramped stages—a practice delegates overwhelmingly consider discriminatory. For attendees, accessibility is a basic right, not an add-on service.

Developed with the guidance of accessibility consultant Dr Shani Dhanda, the report examines 12 areas — from policy and legislation to sensory needs, communication, training, and technology. Across each theme, a similar pattern emerges: venues express confidence, but delegates continue to encounter barriers. Dr Dhanda follows each identified gap with targeted recommendations for meaningful improvement.

“This research deserves real applause – it’s not just a report, it’s a rallying cry for progress. The first of its kind, it shines a light on a truth we can no longer ignore – accessibility is still too often seen as optional, when in reality, it benefits everyone,” said Dhanda.

She continued: “The findings call for bold, lasting change. The time for quick fixes and reactive adjustments is over. Accessibility must be woven into every stage of design and delivery. By listening to those with lived experiences, embedding inclusive thinking, and striving for continuous improvement, the UK events industry can set a global benchmark for true inclusion.”

The report also outlines ten clear recommendations for the sector and provides a pathway toward compliance with the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which came into force in June 2025.

Craig Bingham, Managing Director at ICC Wales, commented: “Accessibility must sit at the heart of every event – and at ICC Wales, it genuinely does. We believe inclusive design should be a baseline expectation, not a bolt-on or a budget decision.

“From ensuring step-free access and gender-neutral facilities to embedding disability awareness training across our team, our approach is about removing barriers before they arise. We’ve worked closely with organisers to make sure every delegate can take part fully and comfortably – and the feedback we’ve received shows the real impact this makes.

“This report reinforces the urgency for collective action across the sector. True progress means moving beyond compliance and cost discussions, and towards a shared responsibility to make every event accessible by default.”

Mike Fletcher, Director of News & Content at The Business of Events, added: “The data reveals a real disconnect between venue intent and delegate experience. By sharing these findings openly, we hope to spark collaboration across the sector and turn good intentions into meaningful change.”

Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events is available for download here

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Destinations International (DI) has launched Advocacy & Action — a bold new initiative designed to harness the power of advocacy and social impact as twin forces shaping the future of destination leadership. The initiative was announced at DI’s recent Advocacy Summit and Thrive: The Community Vitality Summit. 

Rooted in DI’s new Advocacy & Action Strategic Roadmap (2025–2027) and informed by insights from the 2025 Destinations International DestinationNEXT Futures Study (“DNEXT Futures Study”), this powerful, forward-looking initiative empowers destination leaders to build stronger communities, influence policy and demonstrate the measurable value of tourism in driving economic vitality and social well-being for both residents and visitors. 

As part of the initiative, DI will convene its inaugural Advocacy & Action: The Destination Impact Event in Ottawa, Ontario, October 20–22, 2026. The event will unite and reimagine two of DI’s most dynamic gatherings — the Advocacy and Thrive Summits — into one powerful event dedicated to advancing purpose-driven destination leadership. 

“Advocacy & Action brings together the full spectrum of what destination organisations stand for — community resilience, brand stewardship, leadership and impact,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. 

This initiative is about helping every destination professional turn insight into influence and vision into measurable community outcomes. We are not just promoting the work of destination organisations; we’re shaping their ability to continue to be catalysts in their communities.” 

DI defines advocacy as “the intentional practice of positioning destination organisations as essential leaders in advancing community vitality and growth.” The Advocacy & Action initiative turns that philosophy into practice, combining research, tools and leadership development to help members inform, influence and inspire change across their communities. 

The 2025 DNEXT Futures Study and subsequent report, The Advocacy Leadership Imperative, both produced with MMGY NextFactor and supported by the DI Foundation, underscores why this moment matters: 

• Advocacy has emerged as the #1 priority for destination leaders worldwide, with funding, trust and relevance all tied to community alignment and storytelling;
• 84% of destination organisations now play a leadership role in destination development, signaling a profound shift from marketing to management, engagement and advocacy;
• Public trust and resident sentiment are now core performance indicators, replacing traditional metrics such as “heads in beds” with measures of belonging, well-being and shared prosperity;
• The study warns that destination organisations without a strong advocacy strategy risk being reactive in the face of funding, policy and reputation challenges, reinforcing the need for proactive leadership and data-driven communication. 

“The DNEXT Futures Study reinforces what our members have long known: advocacy is not optional, it’s essential,” said Sophia Hyder Hock, Chief Impact Officer at Destinations International. “The Advocacy & Action initiative unites the social and economic impact of our work, ensuring that every destination organisation and destination professional has the frameworks, language and confidence to lead with purpose.” 
 

Advocacy & Action: The Destination Impact Event — Ottawa, Ontario | October 20–22, 2026 

The Advocacy & Action: Destination Impact Event 2026 will serve as the global platform for collaboration, inspiration and impact. Participants will have the option of selecting between two focused learning tracks, Social Impact & Professional Growth and Advocacy Leadership, while engaging in joint sessions that explore how advocacy and impact intersect to create what DI calls “The Destination Effect.” More details about the event will be announced in the coming months. 

“In uniting the Advocacy and Thrive Summits, we are not merging two events but bringing together two mindsets,” said Andreas Weissenborn, Vice President of Research and Advocacy at Destinations International. “Advocacy & Action is about the confluence of these two important disciplines to show how destination organisations drive progress, prosperity and pride for their communities.” 

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Business Events Wellington, in partnership with Tourism New Zealand, has launched the International Conference Leaders Fund, a bold new initiative aimed at empowering Wellington-based researchers and academics to take centre stage in the global conference arena.

The fund directly addresses a key barrier for many university researchers: limited access to funding to engage with international associations and attend global conferences. By offering targeted financial support, the fund enables researchers to raise their international profiles, strengthen global networks, and attract prestigious international conferences to Wellington.

“The strength of Wellington’s conference offering lies in its world-class research community,” says Irette Ferreira, Manager of Business Events Wellington. “This fund supports our local experts to lead on the world stage, bringing more international events – and the knowledge, innovation, and economic benefits they deliver – home to Wellington.”

The International Conference Leaders Fund has three key goals:

• Support academics in building their standing within international associations.
• Align conference bids with Wellington’s key strategic sectors: Science, Climate Action and Environment, Technology, and Screen.
• Boost the number of successful international conference bids led by Wellington researchers.

By investing in future conference leaders, Wellington is cultivating a sustainable pipeline of bid champions who will help position the city as a premier destination for global knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Applications are now open and will close on 21 November 2025. University-based researchers who are active members of international associations and are keen to lead future conference bids are encouraged to apply. Full criteria and application details are available on the WellingtonNZ website.

National support for local leadership

Tourism New Zealand is backing the initiative through its long-standing partnership with Business Events Wellington.

“Local bid champions play a vital role in attracting international conferences that drive knowledge sharing and economic impact,” says Penelope Ryan, Global Manager Business Events at Tourism New Zealand. “We’re proud to support this fund and help grow New Zealand’s next generation of global conference leaders.”

Margaret Hyland, Deputy Vice-Chancellor – Research, Victoria University of Wellington, also champions the fund, stating: “Wellington’s research community has a global mindset and a strong track record of collaboration. This fund will give our academics the tools and confidence to lead international bids, bringing world-class events, and new opportunities to the capital.”

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Amelia Roziman, CEO of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) has been the awarded with The Iceberg Excellence Award, becoming the first Asian and only the fifth recipient in the award’s ten-year history.

This recognition was presented during the inaugural LEGACY360 Education in Kuching, where Amelia’s bold vision, leadership in legacy-driven event strategies, and pioneering contributions to sustainable business events were celebrated.

The Iceberg Excellence Award is exclusively reserved for trailblazers whose work goes beyond conventional event planning and elevates the industry’s capacity to deliver long-term, meaningful impact. By awarding Amelia, The Iceberg recognises her outstanding role in championing legacy, sustainability, and purpose in the business events sector.

“As the first person from Asia to receive this honour, Amelia is not only a source of pride for Malaysia and Borneo, but she sets a powerful benchmark for the industry globally,” stated James Latham, Founder and Producer of The Iceberg. “She is a deserving recipient, and we hope that the strength of her advocacy inspires more.”

Under Amelia’s leadership, Sarawak has undergone a paradigm shift, transitioning from events as transactional gatherings to legacy-driven platforms that yield lasting social, environmental, and economic benefits.

Her advocacy plan, titled Sarawak 2030, transformed business events into a priority economic sector in the Sarawak government’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030. The plan also won the ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) Best Marketing Award.

Throughout her career, Amelia has guided Sarawak to win 29 destination marketing awards and earned 10 professional honours, including the induction of the Events Industry Council (EIC) Hall of Leaders in 2023. She is the first woman in Asia to receive the EIC honour for her contributions to the global business events sector.

A proud Bidayuh, one of the indigenous tribes of Borneo, Amelia is a pioneer in Malaysia’s business events industry, having played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s business events landscape since 2006 and inspiring a new generation of leaders in the field.

“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive The Iceberg Excellence Award. This recognition also goes to the BESarawak team, reflecting the collective passion and conviction of everyone who believes that events should contribute to positive change,” said Roziman. “This award also stands as a testament to Sarawak’s ambition to lead in the future of sustainable, legacy-centric business events by 2030.”

“I hope to inspire destinations, organisations, and event leaders to commit seriously to legacy thinking, to embed sustainability practices into every event, and to genuinely measure success not only by attendance and revenue, but also by its long-term impact.”

The Iceberg is a platform, presented by the Joint Meetings Industry Council, focused on exploring, documenting, and promoting the legacies of business events. The Iceberg promotes a global movement that amplifies voices and ideas toward more purposeful and sustainable events, whereby Amelia is listed among its distinguished ambassadors. 

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Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), has announced it will retain the compelling 'All Shades' photographic exhibition by Kamilaroi documentary photographer and filmmaker Dean Saffron, to mark the Centre’s 30-year anniversary.

The body of work represents an extraordinary collaboration between Dean Saffron and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Queensland and the Torres Strait. Saffron travelled thousands of kilometres to capture these stories, recording oral histories and creating a visual archive that will be preserved for the future.

Commissioned by State Library Queensland, the portraits are part of a broader initiative to create a lasting archive for future generations.

BCEC Advocate and Executive Director, First Nations at the Queensland Museum, Dr Bianca Beetson said the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre’s (BCEC) decision to retain Dean Saffron’s All Shades exhibition as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations highlights the Centre’s dedication to celebrating the cultural diversity and exceptional talent of Australian artists.

“This remarkable exhibition enriches BCEC’s outstanding art collection, which already includes over 60 works by prominent First Nations and contemporary Australian artists, and further cements the Centre’s role as a cultural hub that honours creativity, diversity, and the shared stories that bring us together.”

Highlights of the collection include treasures from Papunya in the Northern Territory – widely considered the birthplace of the contemporary Aboriginal art movement in the late 1970s, originally commissioned for Expo ’88 and today regarded as one of the greatest holdings of Central Desert Art in the world.

The Centre’s collection of Indigenous artworks also includes Ingredients to Wealth (2022-2023) a painting by Yuggera - Biri artist Jody Rallah, commissioned as part of the BCEC's first Reconciliation Action Plan.
 

BCEC First Nations Advisor, Aunty Bridget Garay welcomed the announcement that the All Shades exhibition would be on permanent display and accessible to the venue’s many visitors.

“It is wonderful to have a true showcase of the diversity of our people and our communities. I love that photographer Dean Saffron has reclaimed history empowering our people to choose how they wish to be seen and recorded as they are today.”

Long-time friend of BCEC, Dean Saffron’s work is celebrated for its emotional honesty and global reach. He has produced humanitarian photo essays for UNICEF and the World Food Program with this latest exhibition also appearing in the Australian Financial Review.

The series is currently displayed across the Arbour and Plaza levels of the Centre accessible to thousands of local, interstate and international delegates attending events during the venue’s busy conference season.

Dean Saffron says, “It’s an incredible honour to have All Shades become a permanent part of the BCEC’s collection. This exhibition is about pride, dignity and the strength of First Nations communities. I hope it sparks conversations that bring us closer together, reminding us that at our core, we are all human.

Photography has the power to connect people, and I’m proud that these stories will continue to be seen, shared and celebrated in such a meaningful space.”

BCEC General Manager, Kym Guesdon said the addition of Saffron’s work reflects the Centre’s ongoing commitment to showcasing the work of First Nations Artists, as a venue which itself stands on a significant meeting place for Traditional Owners.

“Our priority is to make the collection accessible to visitors and members of the public alike, and for the Centre to be a meaningful place, a catalyst for conversation for the wider community as well as for convention delegates and event attendees.”
 

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