The PCO - Issue #122 | Edition 1 (2026)

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IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly 2026: Athens Special

Bi-monthly publication from the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers

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| PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

WHAT IF THE WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY HAD A CAPITAL? Wouldn‘t it be nice if a global business event didn‘t require a global commute?

With over 4 billion people less than 8 hours away and access to some of the world‘s greatest minds and wonders, why not let the global leader in hospitality host your next event?

Discover all that‘s possible in Dubai at dubaibusinessevents.com 2

IAPCO NEWS | I S S U E # 1 2 2 E D I T I O N 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026 Special Issue

Greetings IAPCO Community and Partners, It is a special honour to welcome you to this commemorative edition of our signature publication, as this one is dedicated to an event, which will always remain a highlight in my mind and soul, as well as one of the proudest moments in my term as IAPCO President.

The IAPCO 2026 Annual Meeting & General Assembly, under the theme ‘The Odyssey Reinvented’, that took place in my home city Athens, the birthplace of the first symposia, served as a powerful reminder that when people gather with purpose to exchange ideas and share knowledge, they shape progress and make this world a better place.

This lies at the heart of IAPCO’s vision and mission – to use the power of professional meetings to create lasting impact, empowering excellence and collaboration across our industry.

Inspired by the Odyssey, and by Ithaca as a symbol of purpose, growth and return, this meeting was an inspiring journey through storytelling, leadership and personal development but also through highly interactive and vibrant dialogues.

This edition of IAPCO’s flagship event set the stage for the next phase of our strategic plan, focused on a platform that encourages empowered community engagement, strong partnerships and sustainable growth.

Welcome to this special post-event edition of PCO Magazine, reflecting on the successful delivery of the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly in Athens.

Athens gave us the perfect setting for bold dialogues, practical learning, and the kind of peer to peer exchange that strengthens our community. On behalf of IAPCO, my sincere thanks to every member, speaker, volunteer and to our local organising committee hosts who made the week run so smoothly.

We are especially grateful to our sponsors and partners who helped bring the programme and social moments to life. A warm thank you to This is Athens as our Main Sponsor, and to Avitron Event Productions, The Myconian Collection (Platinum Sponsor), Visit Greece (Silver Sponsor & Smartphone Application Sponsor), and Athens International Airport (AIA) (Opening Reception Sponsor). We also acknowledge Megaron Athens International Conference Centre (Venue Supporter) and our Official Airline Partner, AEGEAN. Finally, our appreciation extends to the many additional supporters listed on the event website. Your contributions, large and small, collectively elevated the Athens experience.

I am extremely happy about the result and positive feedback already received but mostly proud to have been part of Team Athens, the four IAPCO-accredited PCOs in charge of this event. The host team and all key stakeholders of the destination aligned so seamlessly around a single goal: to unite and inspire the IAPCO Community. This was collaboration in action, and it reflects the very heart of IAPCO.

In the pages ahead, we share key moments, insights and takeaways from Athens and the momentum we’ll carry forward together.

I am also more than grateful to IAPCO Council, Training Academy, our amazing HQ Team, IAPCO’s Partners and Community and especially thankful to our members for the support and active participation.

CEO, IAPCO

Martin Boyle

A few paragraphs cannot capture my intense feelings and deep gratitude for what we have experienced in the past few months, but I hope that the content of this issue will provide you with an inspiring overview of what our fantastic IAPCO community can achieve!

Thank you,

Sissi Lignou President, IAPCO

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The PCO: Published by IAPCO Whilst every care is taken in the preparation and publishing of The PCO, the views expressed are not necessarily those of IAPCO or its members and no responsibility can be taken for articles, errors or comment.

Editor: Martin Boyle (pco@IAPCO.org)

PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS Dubai

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Frankfurt Convention Bureau

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Athens

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Geneva

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Snapsight

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Toronto

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What if the world of opportunity had a capital?

#meetfrankfurt

Where Business meets Leisure

Where Business meets Leisure.

It’s never the end of the journey

A Destination That Innovates for Associations and PCOs Powerful Insights for Events. Trusted by IAPCO.

ON THE COVER: Stock Photo: https://www.istockphoto.com

CONTENTS

Meet in the city that’s all in

ON-POINT ARTICLES

See and experience more!

www.meetfrankfurt.com/tickets © #visitfrankfurt, David Vasicek

Offer your attendees the opportunity to see more of Frankfurt before or after the congress. Our Frankfurt Congress Card offers discounts at numerous museums, attractions, leisure providers and shops throughout the city.

The Odyssey Reinvented

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When Homer told the story of Odysseus, he wasn’t writing about victory. He was writing about navigation.

Registration Is a Guided Journey:

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How Congress Websites Shape Registration Decisions

Building Belonging in Medical Congresses:

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Guiding the Participant Journey

The Odyssey Reinvented

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A very human journey toward the meetings of tomorrow

The Human Reset:

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Why Meetings Need Strategic Pauses to Stay Future‑Ready

Hands That Save a Life

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Translating awareness into national cardiac safety readiness

Strengthening the Human Side of Operational Excellence

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From Insight to Impact:

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Making Event Marketing AI-Ready for 2026

Is It Really About the Tech?

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The Human Revolution in Congress Management

MEMBER NEWS Member News

Updates from the IAPCO Member Community

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PARTNER NEWS Partner News

Updates from the IAPCO Partner Community

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IAPCO NEWS Message from the President and CEO

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IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026 Special Issue

IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026

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Reinventing the Odyssey for the Meetings of Tomorrow

IAPCO AM&GA Session Highlights

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Upcoming Education and Events

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Dates for your diary for education, networking and professional development provided and supported by IAPCO.

Education

EDGE Stockholm

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Stockholm – Where Minds Meet and Excellence Evolvest

EDGE Auckland

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EDGE Auckland Marks a Milestone Moment

Join us in #UnlockingEDGE

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IAPCO EDGE Dubai Advanced 2026

Sustainability Award Winner

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Setting the Standard: K.I.T. Group GmbH Wins Inaugural IAPCO Sustainability Award 2026

Emerging Leader Award Winner

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The PCO of the Future, Built Today: Cheryl Choy Wins IAPCO Emerging Leader Award 2026

IAPCO & NZICC Jan Tonkin Scholarship Winner

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Leading with Purpose: Meet Shimal Jaykant, the 2026 IAPCO and NZICC Jan Tonkin Scholarship Winner

IAPCO Driving Excellence Innovation Award 2026

Leading Through Change: Building Resilient Leaders In a market shaped by disruption, compressed timelines, and evolving attendee expectations, resilience is not a buzzword. It is a leadership system. This issue explores what it takes to lead through change in the meetings industry: the blend of clear decision-making, adaptable teams, humancentered design and purposeful use of technology that turns volatility into momentum. Join us.

Regional Feature: LATAM

The upcoming edition of The PCO will shine a spotlight on the dynamic LATAM region.

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We invite IAPCO members, clients, partners and collaborators from across Latin America to contribute news, updates, case studies and stories that reflect the region’s distinctive strengths, innovations and influence within the global meetings and events industry.

Community Join the IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group at IMEX Frankfurt 2026

Thessaloniki Hosts IAPCO Council for Strategic Dialogue and Destination Engagement

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New IAPCO Council

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Jason Yeh voted as IAPCO President-Elect alongside new Council at AM&GA 2026

Advocacy

Dear Associations of the World...

Theme:

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Nominations open until 5 April

IAPCO HB Group IMEX 2026

Feature in the Issue #123 Edition 2 (2026) of the PCO!

Let us highlight the creativity, leadership and evolving landscape shaping the future of meetings across LATAM.

Deadline for all contributions: 23 April 2026

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Explore the latest case studies

EMERGING LEADERS PERSPECTIVE No More Next Gen:

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Change the Words, Change the Industry

We welcome submissions from all our members from around the world.

Editorial support is provided to non-English speakers.

SnaPCO

Send your contributions for the next edition to Moments from the IAPCO Community

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pco@IAPCO.org

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

| ON-POINT ARTICLE

The Odyssey Reinvented: When Homer told the story of Odysseus, he wasn’t writing about victory.

He was writing about navigation.

Odysseus does not conquer his way home. He adapts his way there – through unfamiliar terrain, shifting conditions and forces far larger than himself. He survives not because the journey is predictable, but because he learns how to respond when it isn’t. Resourcefulness matters. Patience matters. Judgement matters. Leadership, above all, matters when certainty disappears.

Patience and perseverance are equally critical.

Transformation does not move in straight lines. Hybrid models evolve. New technologies mature unevenly.

Audiences adapt at different speeds. Like Odysseus resisting the temptation of false shortcuts, leaders must know when not to rush and to allow learning, trust and community to form over time.

It is an unexpectedly precise frame for the moment business events now inhabit.

Leadership and decision-making, however, are the defining traits. As technology expands what is possible, someone must still decide what is meaningful. Algorithms can recommend. Platforms can scale. But commitment, alignment and shared direction emerge only when people choose together – often face to face – what matters next.

There is already a signal pointing forward.

For decades, conferences and congresses followed a familiar logic. Information flowed from stage to audience.

Networks formed in predictable ways. Success could be measured in attendance, scale and repetition. Technology supported the system but rarely challenged its structure.

That era is over.

Today, technology goes beyond enhancing business events – it is reshaping the terrain on which they exist. Digital platforms extend reach. Data sharpens design. Artificial intelligence personalises experiences, reveals patterns of engagement and removes friction that once felt inevitable.

Events are no longer bounded by a room, a schedule or even a single moment in time.

This transformation has created extraordinary opportunity.

It has also removed old certainties.

When information is available everywhere, what is the role of a physical gathering?

When AI can match participants more efficiently than chance, what happens to serendipity?

When experiences can be simulated, what still requires presence?

These are not technical questions. They are human ones.

The ancient Greeks understood something modern systems are relearning. In places like Athens, gathering was not about transmitting knowledge. It was about testing ideas in public, building legitimacy and aligning action. The Agora was meant to be consequential. The symposium, formative.

Business events, at their best, still operate on that logic.

Technology now accelerates everything around them.

AI can optimise agendas, anticipate interests, analyse behaviour and improve inclusion. Data can reveal what once depended on intuition. But these tools do not replace the need for human judgement; they amplify it. The faster and more complex the system becomes, the more decisive leadership must be.

This is where Odysseus becomes relevant – not as myth, but as mindset.

Resourcefulness is no longer optional. Event leaders must design experiences that flex across formats, cultures and expectations, responding in real time to signals that data alone cannot interpret. Cleverness today is not about spectacle; it is about recombining technology and human interaction in ways that feel intentional rather than automated.

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In recent research conducted by MCI Canada’s Data and Analytics team with more than 1,300 Gen Z participants across five continents, in-person business events emerged as their preferred form of professional engagement, ahead of virtual formats and online communities. This is the first generation raised entirely in a digital environment, fluent in online learning and virtual connection. Their preference is not nostalgic. It is selective. They come for intensity, for context and to participate in something that feels consequential.

This is not a rejection of technology. It is evidence that, as systems become more advanced, the human elements of gathering – emotion, trust, challenge, belonging – become more valuable, not less.

The meetings of tomorrow will look different. They will be more data-informed, more personalised, more continuous.

Technology will shape how people connect before, during and long after an event ends. AI will quietly remove friction and surface insight.

What will not change is the need for human navigation.

Business events are no longer static destinations. They are journeys through complexity, uncertainty and change. Like Odysseus’s voyage, their value lies not in speed, but in how they are navigated.

The future belongs to those who understand that technology sets the conditions, but humanity determines the outcome.

And that, perhaps, is the oldest lesson of all.

Juliano Lissoni Managing Director, MCI Canada

ON-POINT ARTICLE PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS | I S S U E #|1 2I S2 SEUDEI T#I 1O2N2 1E D( 2I T0I 2O6N) 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

#meetfrankfurt

Where Business meets Leisure.

See and experience more!

www.meetfrankfurt.com/tickets

Offer your attendees the opportunity to see more of Frankfurt before or after the congress. Our Frankfurt Congress Card offers discounts at numerous museums, attractions, leisure providers and shops throughout the city.

© #visitfrankfurt, David Vasicek

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

Registration Is a Guided Journey: How Congress Websites Shape Registration Decisions

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

The real issue: information without direction Many congress websites are designed as digital brochures rather than conversion-oriented platforms. Visitors encounter content like programme details, venue descriptions, speaker lists, accommodation options, but often lack a clear path through the decision making of their congress registration: ‘Why should I register, and why now?’

Team members from CPO HANSER SERVICE and its IT subsidiary GLOBIT analysed several congress websites and identified common friction points: • • • •

Value propositions that are hard to spot Content that is not aligned with specific target groups Information overload that delays decisions Calls to action that are easy to miss or inconsistent

The result? Page visitors leave the site without registering, even when they are fundamentally interested in attending .

The registration is a decision journey The team reframed ticket purchase as a decision journey, not a single action. Participants analysed a real congress website from the perspective of different attendee types and a list of decision-making factors, including: • • • • •

Need. Orientation: ‘I want to quickly understand whether this conference is relevant to me and my professional role.’

Decision factor. Relevant content: ‘The programme addresses exactly the topics that interest me.’

Objection. Lack of time: ‘I would participate, but I hardly have any time – is it worth the effort?’

Want. Networking: ‘I want to meet like-minded people and exchange ideas with other professionals.’

And many more questions which require answers: ‘Is this congress relevant to my research and reputation?’

(Professor) ‘Will this help me solve real-world problems or advance my career?’ (Expert) ‘Is this accessible, affordable and worth the time investment?’ (Student/ Early Career Researcher)

Each perspective comes with different needs, motivations and objections, yet many websites address all audiences with the same generic content.

The focus of the meeting was on how websites need to address and support visitors in each of these phases with targeted communication.

From passive to active communication A key takeaway is the shift from passive to active communication. Instead of waiting for users to search for 8

relevant information, websites should proactively guide them through decisions.

Effective websites: • Clear value propositions visible at every stage • Prominent and repeated registration calls to action • Transparent pricing and ticket options (including travel expenses and possible grants opportunities) • Simple, frictionless registration processes • Trust building signals such as partner logos, testimonials and past attendance data The goal is to remove hesitation, provide better-structured orientation and reduce cognitive effort required from website visitors.

A strategic mindset shift for congress marketing We concluded that successful congress marketing requires a strategic rethink: websites must guide decisions, rather than being digital brochures.

By aligning website communication with visitor decision processes, organisers can improve registration rates significantly, often without increasing marketing spend.

At the end of the meeting, a consensus was reached: ‘Traffic doesn’t create attendance. Guided decisions do.’

Even small structural changes in website communication can lead to measurable gains, making targeted digital guidance a core competence for modern congress organisers.

Inge Hanser, Managing Owner of CPO HANSER SERVICE: ‘The findings were immediately applied to current congress website projects, refining structure, messaging and calls to action'.

Dannis Radigk, Business and Office Manager GLOBIT GmbH, the conference software subsidiary of CPO HANSER SERVICE GmbH

EMERGING LEADERS PERSPECTIVE | I S S U E # 1 2 2 E D I T I O N 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

No More Next Gen: Change the Words, Change the Industry We often speak about the great resignation, talent retention, the erosion of expertise and the potential loss of corporate thought leadership as fewer new resources enter the industry. But what if the so-called ‘Next Generation’ simply isn’t there to help? Scary, isn’t it?

Almost two years ago, I was sitting in the audience at an IAPCO panel discussion during IMEX Frankfurt, focused on generational gaps and succession planning. I remember raising my hand and throwing out a provocation: what if we stopped talking about the Next Gen altogether? My point was simple: the very term creates a barrier. It frames emerging talent as something that will come, something separate from the conversations we are having now, something to worry about later. I felt that many senior leaders and C-suite executives were deeply concerned about the future of their companies, without fully acknowledging that the future was already sitting in the room with them.

Then time passed, and it has been one of my greatest honours to serve on the IAPCO Council as a co-opted member while chairing the Next Gen Committee. In these two years, we have celebrated important milestones and launched impactful initiatives designed and driven directly by young leaders. But if I had to name the biggest achievement, it would be the growing respect and openness shown by the Council and the entire community.

At industry events, senior leaders frequently approached us to ask how we see the industry evolving, in terms of team structures, communication dynamics, or even the impact of AI. These exchanges strengthened our sense of ownership and reinforced the value of our contribution to industry challenges and opportunities.

Today, I am especially proud to say that this journey has led us to a meaningful shift. At IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026, I presented this change and it was approved by the IAPCO General Assembly. We have decided to move away from the term ‘Next Gen’ and embrace a new definition: ‘Emerging Leaders’.

Words shape behaviour, and this new naming removes the invisible hierarchy that keeps future leaders in the waiting room instead of at the decision-making table.

This shift shouldn’t remain an internal evolution within IAPCO. It should spark a broader movement in our industry and beyond. Associations, organisations and companies should start questioning how they frame and engage with younger professionals, whether in governance, programme design, committees or strategic planning. The industry thrives when fresh perspectives sit alongside experience, not behind it. If we truly believe in long-term sustainability, then leadership pipelines need to be nurtured now. Recognising Emerging Leaders as an integral part of the present should become standard practice across the meetings and events ecosystem.

So here is an invitation to everyone: let’s shift our mindset together. Let’s stop talking about ‘Next Gen’ as if it were a separate chapter that will open someday. The chapter is already unfolding, and Emerging Leaders are already writing their part of the story. Start using this terminology in your conversations, your panels, your committees, your mentorship programmes and your internal documents.

By adopting this name, we reinforce a culture of inclusion, empowerment and shared responsibility.

The future of our industry is not waiting in the wings. It’s flying already!

Giulia Ineke Sarri, who formerly chaired the Committee, was recently ratified by Council as a new IAPCO Council Member. She is succeeded by Alexandros Terzis of ERA Congresses & Events, Greece, who now serves as Chair of the Emerging Leaders Committee.

Giulia Ineke Sarri Head of Service Design, AIM Communication | AIM Group International and IAPCO Council Member

Moving from ‘Next Gen’ to ‘Emerging Leaders’ is more than a semantic update: it’s a shift in perspective. ‘Next Gen’ suggests waiting. It implies that leadership is something that will eventually happen, once someone grants permission or once enough years have passed.

By contrast, ‘Emerging Leaders’ recognises the active role that younger professionals already play. It acknowledges their presence, their impact and their responsibility today.

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| PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

It’s never the end of the journey.

Your meeting, built around your point of view.

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Medical congresses have never been more global, complex or interconnected. Physicians, researchers and healthcare professionals come together from across the world, bringing diverse scientific perspectives, cultures and expectations. Organising a medical congress today is a journey that demands adaptability, sound judgement and human sensitivity. While technology enables efficiency and global reach, the true success of a congress lies in how well it supports human connection, learning and exchange.

Guiding participants through complexity Participants at medical congresses often navigate dense scientific programmes, hybrid formats, different time zones and high professional expectations. For many – especially early-career professionals or first-time attendees – this complexity can feel overwhelming.

PCOs play a crucial role in guiding participants through this journey. Clear structures, thoughtful programme design and orientation tools help attendees focus on what matters most: knowledge exchange, dialogue and collaboration.

Creating belonging in scientific communities In medical congresses, belonging is essential. Diversity ensures multiple perspectives, and inclusion provides access, but belonging lets participants feel confident contributing, asking questions and connecting with peers. Interactive formats, small-group sessions and wellfacilitated networking transform a congress from a series of lectures into a shared professional experience.

A practical example is a dedicated Members Lounge at the arrival and registration area. It offers participants space for peer exchange, informal discussions or focused individual work. Incorporating such spaces into the meeting architecture fosters spontaneous interaction, meaningful networking and collaboration beyond the formal programme. Thoughtful design of physical and digital environments keeps learning, dialogue and human connection at the centre of the participant experience.

Practical approaches for medical congresses of tomorrow

they know where to focus and how to engage, participation comes naturally. Meaningful exchange requires care, as well-facilitated conversations and smaller, focused encounters build trust and enable genuine dialogue.

Technology can support connection, but human guidance turns access into engagement. When dialogue continues beyond the closing session, a congress becomes more than an event, it becomes a community.

ON-POINT ARTICLE | I S S U E # 1 2 2 E D I T I O N 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

Building Belonging in Medical Congresses: Guiding the Participant Journey

The PCO as navigator and leader Like Odysseus navigating uncertain seas, PCOs guide medical congresses through complexity and change, anticipating challenges and adapting in real time.

Leadership in medical congresses is not about control, but about orientation. It means balancing scientific integrity with human experience, digital efficiency with personal connection and structure with flexibility. By providing clear guidance and thoughtful support, PCOs create an environment where participants can focus on progress, collaboration and learning throughout the entire journey.

Looking ahead Medical congresses of tomorrow will be increasingly personalised, flexible and globally connected. Their success will not be measured solely by technology or attendance figures, but by how effectively they support learning, foster collaboration and create a sense of belonging within the scientific community.

Conclusion Medical congresses are more than logistical achievements.

They are human journeys of knowledge, responsibility and connection. Technology enables progress, but human wisdom, empathy and thoughtful leadership guide participants safely through complexity and change.

By placing people at the centre, PCOs ensure that the medical congresses of tomorrow are not just attended, but truly experienced.

Leonie Trogus Congrex Switzerland

Belonging grows through intentional design. Clear orientation and thoughtful planning help participants navigate complex programmes with confidence, and when

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

The Odyssey Reinvented: A very human journey toward the meetings of tomorrow Every era has its own odyssey.

Not all journeys are geographical; some are cultural, emotional, and deeply human.

experiences. This sense of belonging turns events into cultural moments, capable of strengthening association and company identity in ways no digital channel can fully replicate.

Today, our odyssey unfolds across hybrid spaces, evolving technologies, and one fundamental question: why meet at all?

In-person gatherings remain essential because culture is not transmitted through slides, it is lived, shared and felt.

Technology has transformed the way people connect. Meetings can happen anywhere, at any time, across borders and time zones. And yet, paradoxically, as connection becomes easier, attendance becomes more intentional. People no longer show up by default. They expect a compelling reason to meet, one that justifies the journey and makes the return worthwhile.

Designing inclusive, adaptive environments The future of meetings is inherently inclusive.

Attendees want to go home inspired, connected, and changed.

Successful events allow attendees to shape their own journeys, recognising differences in backgrounds, perspectives, abilities and expectations and allowing those differences to shine.

Technology as an open sea Digital platforms, artificial intelligence, immersive tools, and collaborative technologies have expanded the sea we navigate. They have redefined formats, reshaped content delivery and even dissolved the boundaries of location. Events are no longer fixed structures, but adaptive ecosystems designed to engage both minds and emotions.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are not add-ons; they are integral to success. Attendees increasingly expect events to embrace accessibility and representation through thoughtful design and intentional use of technology, from virtual and augmented reality to social media integration and assistive tools that ensure full participation for people with disabilities.

Yet technology alone is never enough. Like the sea faced

by Odysseus, it is powerful yet unpredictable. It amplifies speed and scale, but also noise and distraction. It opens routes, but it does not define purpose.

Technology, when used with purpose, becomes an enabler of inclusion rather than a barrier.

The real challenge is not adopting technology for its own sake, but using it to create meaningful experiences: environments where ideas take root, memories are formed and new ways of thinking can emerge.

Odysseus and the human skills that still matter Odysseus remains a timeless symbol not because he was the strongest hero, but because he embodied the qualities needed to navigate uncertainty: resourcefulness, ingenuity, patience, perseverance, leadership and decision-making under pressure.

These are precisely the qualities shaping the meetings of tomorrow.

In a world where content is increasingly commoditised, events are becoming experiential playgrounds, spaces for experimentation, dialogue and connection. What differentiates a meeting is no longer only what is said, but how people feel while they are there, and what stays with them long after they leave.

Here, a new form of productivity emerges. Not louder, faster, or more rigid, but more relational, more human.

Productivity measured not only in outcomes, but in trust built, relationships strengthened and communities reinforced.

Belonging, ROX, and the power of connection People are seeking positive ROX: Return on Experience.

They want to feel valued. They want to belong.

When meetings foster genuine connection, they move beyond transactions and become transformative

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We are moving beyond the idea that events are simply about bringing people into a room. Instead, they are about forging deeper connections and cementing relationships that endure long after the event ends.

At the same time, data and insights empower planners to personalise experiences, tailoring content and interactions to individual interests and needs, making each journey feel relevant and intentional.

Values, choices, and the future of gathering Meetings are no longer neutral spaces. Where and how we gather reflects who we are.

Groups and communities are increasingly vocal about not convening in locations where laws and policies conflict with their values, from gender equality to women’s rights and broader social issues. These choices signal a profound shift: events are becoming expressions of collective identity and shared purpose.

Toward the meetings of tomorrow Like Odysseus, we are navigating complexity learning when to move forward, when to pause, and when to change course.

The meetings of tomorrow will not be defined solely by technology, but by human wisdom, emotional intelligence and ethical awareness.

By reimagining events as catalysts for progress, sources of inspiration and places of belonging, we can shape a future where every gathering is more than a moment in time it is a meaningful step in a shared journey.

Flaminia Roberti, Executive Vice President Business Development & Relations, AIM Group International

In a world where association congresses are evolving faster than ever, Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs) need destinations that not only deliver world-class infrastructure but also valuable resources to elevate event strategy and impact. Geneva continues to lead by offering an ideal conference destination and a suite of innovative tools to inform, inspire and support event professionals during the organisation of their event.

This past year, the Geneva Convention Bureau has expanded its support to the international meetings community with key resources that reinforce their commitment to high-quality, forward-thinking event planning.

A Brand-New Responsible Events Guide Sustainability is no longer a buzzword, it’s a core expectation. The Geneva Responsible Events Guide provides practical, Geneva-specific advice to help planners reduce environmental impact while enhancing delegate experience. Covering nine essential themes such as transport, waste, diversity and inclusion, impact and legacy, the guide brings Geneva’s rich sustainability ecosystem to organisers’ fingertips, along with concrete steps and local contacts to make responsible events achievable and meaningful.

Insightful White Papers for Associations and PCOs The white papers series delivers actionable, expertled insights for events and associations professionals, addressing some of the most pressing strategic challenges faced today, including: Leadership, Fundraising and Sustainability in the medical sector.

These white papers translate lived experience and expert insights into accessible tools that help PCOs, AMCs and associations enhance impact and event quality.

Geneva the ideal destination for your conference Geneva stands out as an ideal conference destination thanks to its unique combination of global accessibility, professional excellence and inspiring setting. With more than 145 direct flights worldwide, an international airport just seven minutes from the city centre, and fast rail connections to major European cities, Geneva is easily accessible. Home to the United Nations, over forty international organisations, and world-class scientific institutions such as CERN, the city offers an unparalleled intellectual ecosystem that naturally aligns with associations’ congresses. Swiss standards of quality and reliability, and political stability ensure smooth event delivery.

ON-POINT ARTICLE PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS | I S S U E #|1 2I S2 SEUDEI T#I 1O2N2 1E D( 2I T0I 2O6N) 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

Geneva: A Destination That Innovates for Associations and PCOs

Connect With Us Whether you’re considering Geneva for your next congress, seeking tailored support, or simply want to explore how the tools can strengthen your approach, the Geneva team is here to help. Visit us at IMEX or reach out directly to start a conversation.

Geneva is not just a destination, it’s a partner in building impactful, sustainable and successful events.

Discover our resources

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

The Human Reset: Why Meetings Need Strategic Pauses to Stay Future‑Ready

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

In a world where meetings are becoming faster, denser and more technology‑driven, the most overlooked success factor isn’t better tools – it’s better pauses.

Why pauses make meetings better – not slower The future of high‑impact meetings won’t be defined by how much content we can deliver, but by how intelligently we structure the space between it. The meeting and events industry is evolving at extraordinary speed. AI streamlines planning, automation removes friction and digital tools connect us across time zones with unprecedented ease.

But as technology accelerates the ‘what’ of meetings, it puts greater pressure on the ‘how’ – the human capacity to absorb, engage and make meaning.

We design meetings for efficiency yet often forget to design for cognition.

The result: content overload, passive participants and limited retention even when the programme is polished.

What truly creates impact is not how much we put into the agenda, but how well participants can process what happens between sessions. And that depends on one element we consistently underestimate: Strategic pauses Not coffee breaks.

Not inbox breaks.

But active, intentional resets that help the brain transition from information to insight.

Attendees get better experiences.

Sponsors get deeper interactions.

Organisers get stronger revenue.

Everyone wins.

Quick‑fixers: Small resets with big effect Short, gamified activities refresh the brain without disrupting the flow. These activities are perfect for gamification inside the participant app, allowing you to trigger small challenges, polls and reflections between sessions to keep engagement high.

1. The Micro Reset (30–60 seconds) A simple screens‑down moment or guided breath.

In the app: ‘Tap to join a 30‑second reset.’

Effect: reduces mental noise, increases attention.

2. One‑Word Capture Participants submit one word that describes their biggest takeaway from a presentation.

In plenary: Display a live word cloud.

Effect: shared focus and increased reflection.

3. The 60‑Second Reflection One minute, one question: ‘What was the most important point from the last session?’

Gamification: Each reflection earns points.

Effect: moves people from listening to learning.

4. Micro‑Movement Mission Quick prompt: ‘Stand up and greet someone from a different company’ and connect in the app.

Gamification: Bonus points for new connections.

Effect: energy boost and organic networking.

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5. Fast Polls A short poll appears in the app; results display instantly.

Variation: emoji sliders or confidence metres.

Effect: instant participation and feedback.

Gamechangers: The agenda‑level experiences Larger, structured activities fundamentally shift meeting dynamics and offer strong opportunities for premium sponsor activation.

These aren’t ‘breaks.’ They are value‑creating programme elements that energise participants, deepen learning and open new commercial possibilities.

1. Walk and Talk Sessions (10–15 minutes) Guided conversations in pairs or small groups. Themes are pushed through the app.

Why it works: movement boosts creativity,mood and memory.

Sponsor activation: branded routes, conversation cards or ‘presented by’ hosting. Ideal for wellness, sustainability or innovation brands.

2. Curated Roundtable Discussions Structured dialogue at tables of 6–8 people. Open for audience input and questions with moderator.

Why it works: deep learning and collective intelligence.

Sponsor activation: host a topic, supply a challenge etc.

3. Live Podcast Format (20 minutes) An on‑stage conversation with a host and guest(s), recorded for post‑event content. Headphones can be used for a silent disco for the audience.

Why it works: personal, dynamic and easy to follow.

Sponsor activation: ‘presenting partner’ with intro/outro branding and rights to co‑publish.

4. Case Solution Sessions Small groups work on a real challenge or scenario provided by the organiser, attendee or a partner. Short case description and 10–15 minutes to discuss, define key insights and propose solutions. This process can be postevent where solutions proposed can be presented in the event.

Why it works: Case work turns passive participants into co‑creators and creates a natural bridge between theory and application.

Sponsor activation: Sponsors can provide the case, frame the challenge or contribute experts as ‘case hosts.’

5. The 10‑Minute Innovation Sprint Small groups receive a challenge, ideate fast and submit solutions.

Why it works: high energy, creativity and collaboration.

Sponsor activation: perfect for tech/consulting partners, bring the case, join the jury, fund a prize.

6. Moderator‑Guided Reflection Blocks Five structured minutes before a Q&A. The app collects and prioritises insights.

QUICK‑FIXERS Mini‑resets for maximum attention.

7. Purposeful Networking Moments App‑driven matchmaking based on shared interests or challenges, with a 3‑minute conversation flow.

Why it works: more meaningful connections, faster.

Sponsor activation: matching partner with visibility in onboarding, app flow and the networking zone.

What they are Low‑effort, high‑impact micro‑interventions built for app gamification.

Sponsored Engagement: A new revenue strategy for the meetings of tomorrow As meeting formats evolve, sponsors no longer seek passive visibility. They want activation, access, meaningful contact and data. Experience‑based activations let us deliver exactly that – without interrupting the attendee experience.

Gamechangers create high‑value, high‑touch moments that sponsors can own in a natural, content‑driven way.

Sponsors love these opportunities because they are: • purpose‑driven • memorable • high‑contact • data‑rich • authentically integrated From Walk and Talk sessions to innovation sprints, each Gamechanger can be packaged as a premium activation – giving sponsors an active role rather than a silent banner.

Pricing the experience Sell these as content opportunities, not logo placements.

Value drivers include: direct participant engagement • branded facilitation moments • insight generation (anonymised) • exclusivity (by segment or time slot) • post‑event content rights (podcast, report, highlights) • association with learning and innovation This opens the door to new revenue streams without adding clutter-only value.

The sponsor equation of the future It’s not about branding the event.

It’s about branding the moments that matter.

Conclusion: High‑tech must be high‑human Tools will keep evolving. Formats will shift. Automation will accelerate. But one thing stays constant: People create value when they have space to think.

Strategic pauses are not a luxury. They’re a performance tool – simple, powerful and essential. The future of great meetings starts in the quiet moments between the big ones.

Line Løseth Senior Project Manager, Liwlig Conference AS

Best used for • Attention resets • Light engagement • Reflection • Micro‑networking • App challenges

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Why it works: better questions and sharper discussions.

Sponsor activation: subtle ‘presented by”’branding for thought‑leadership partners.

Examples • Micro Reset (30–60 sec) • One‑Word Capture • 60‑Second Reflection • Micro‑Movement Mission • Fast Polls Why it works Boosts focus, mood and retention – without taking programme time.

GAMECHANGERS The formats participants remember – and sponsors love.

What they are Agenda‑integrated dynamics.

experiences

that

shift

meeting

Best used for • Deep dives • Networking with purpose • Creativity bursts • Co‑creation • Sponsor‑friendly engagement Examples • Walk and Talk • Curated Roundtables • Live Podcast • Case Solutions • Innovation Sprint • Reflection Blocks • Purposeful Networking Sponsor value High contact. High visibility. High relevance.

Branding through experiences, not logos.

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Stockholm – Where Minds Meet and Excellence Evolves

As the first seminar of IAPCO EDGE’s 10th anniversary year, Stockholm set the stage for a new decade of learning, connection and professional excellence. Held from 18–21 January 2026, the seminar brought together more than sixty meeting professionals for four days of future-focused education, peer exchange and collaborative inspiration.

Stockholm, with its distinctive blend of innovation, openness and design-led thinking, proved the perfect setting for IAPCO EDGE Stockholm 2026. As a city that effortlessly balances heritage with progress, it mirrored the spirit of this year’s seminar: reflective of the past, grounded in the present and firmly focused on the future.

Held under the theme ‘Bridging Minds: A Collaborative Innovation Journey,’ the seminar welcomed participants from across the meetings industry, including PCOs, CVBs, associations and venues. Over four energising days, EDGE created a space where ideas could be tested, perspectives broadened and relationships strengthened – all within an atmosphere that was both professionally rigorous and warmly collaborative.

A learning journey with lasting impact At its heart, EDGE Stockholm was about more than education alone. It was about building confidence, challenging assumptions and creating meaningful opportunities for professionals to learn with and from one another. Through expert-led sessions, mentor circles, workshops and informal peer exchange, the seminar delivered a rich and immersive experience that extended well beyond the classroom.

Led by IAPCO’s outstanding faculty – Sissi Lignou, IAPCO President; Nicky McGrane, IAPCO Training Academy Regional Representative (Europe); and Mathias Posch,

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IAPCO Past President and Chair of the Accreditation Committee – the programme combined strategic thinking with practical application. Their insight, experience and commitment shaped a learning journey that was as thought-provoking as it was relevant, encouraging participants to reflect on the evolving demands of professional events and their own leadership within the sector.

An inspiring keynote from Tobias Degsell added energy and depth to the conversations. His perspective encouraged participants to think differently, embrace curiosity and approach future challenges with greater creativity and confidence. Additional expert sessions from Camilla Zedendahl (Royal Djurgården) and Tomas Bendz (Invajo) offered destination insight, innovation and practical expertise. Together, these voices created a dynamic educational experience defined by futurefocused ideas, hands-on learning and conversations that will resonate long after Stockholm.

‘More than a seminar, EDGE remains a catalyst for professional growth – building skills, confidence and connection across the global meetings community.’

EDGE at 10: Celebrating the past, inspiring the future This year’s seminar held special significance as the opening edition of IAPCO EDGE’s 10th anniversary year. Stockholm was not only the host city for another successful seminar; it was the starting point for a global celebration of a programme that has shaped careers, built communities and elevated standards across the meetings industry over the past decade.

A standout moment was ‘EDGEat10: Voices of a Decade,’ a featured alumni session that brought together Anna Hall,

Sissi Lignou IAPCO President

Tobias Degsell Combiner AB

Nicky McGrane Mathias Posch IAPCO Training Academy IAPCO Past President and Chair Regional Representative (Europe) of the Accreditation Committee

Camilla Zedendahl Royal Djurgården

Guendalina Carnesecchi, Lamprini Nikolidaki and Olivia Galun. Sharing their personal #UnlockingEDGE stories, they reflected on the lessons, opportunities and turning points that EDGE had brought to their careers. Their insights reinforced EDGE’s enduring value, showing how the programme influences not only individual careers but also organisations and regional communities, long after the seminar concludes.

A city that brought the theme to life Stockholm’s character shaped the overall experience.

Known for sustainability, creativity and collaboration, the city provided a natural backdrop for a seminar centred on innovation and shared learning. Its seamless fusion of old and new echoed the essence of EDGE itself: rooted in strong professional foundations while always moving forward.

A sincere thank you goes to the Local Organising Committee hosts – Stockholm Business Region, Meetagain AB and Nordic Hotels & Resorts – whose commitment and local insight helped deliver an experience that felt both globally relevant and distinctly Stockholm. Their carefully curated programme showcased the city at its best, while fostering the sense of belonging and connection that defines the EDGE community.

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FACULTY and CONTRIBUTORS

Tomas Bendz Invajo

Recognition and the road ahead EDGE Stockholm also introduced a new form of recognition with the award for ‘Best Content Socialiser,’ celebrating those who actively amplify seminar insights and connect the EDGE experience with the wider industry community.

Congratulations to Bjorn van der Wal on receiving this inaugural honour.

As the first seminar of the anniversary year, IAPCO EDGE Stockholm 2026 set a confident and inspiring tone for the global programme still to come in 2026, including EDGE Auckland and EDGE Dubai Advanced. It reminded everyone present that, ten years on, the EDGE formula remains as relevant and impactful as ever.

By bringing together professionals from different disciplines, destinations and perspectives, EDGE continues to unlock potential and inspire excellence across the international meetings industry. Stockholm exemplified that mission in every session, conversation and connection.

A heartfelt thank you to every participant, speaker, partner and organiser who made this edition so memorable. As IAPCO EDGE enters its next chapter, Stockholm will be remembered as the place where the next decade of excellence began.

As always, some of the most meaningful moments happened beyond the formal agenda. In conversations over coffee, shared reflections between sessions and social moments across the programme, participants forged the kind of relationships that continue long after the seminar closes. This is one of EDGE’s defining strengths: turning a gathering of peers into a genuine professional community.

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EDGE Auckland Marks a Milestone Moment IAPCO EDGE Auckland 2026 has just wrapped at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), bringing the global meetings industry together for a landmark edition of IAPCO’s flagship seminar. As EDGE celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026, this year’s event was especially significant, returning to Auckland, the first city ever to host an IAPCO EDGE Seminar.

Hosted at the newly opened NZICC, an IAPCO Convention Centre Partner, the seminar brought together leading minds for an immersive, masterclass-style experience designed to challenge and inspire. In a personal message, Stephen Noble, Chair of IAPCO’s Training Academy, shared how he, together with Jan Tonkin and Mathias Posch, crafted a programme to engage participants’ thinking.

They were joined by seminar speakers Alana Bicknell of NZICC and Craig Muller of Uno Loco.

Stay tuned for highlights soming soon.

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Register your interest to be notified when registration opens for:

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Join us in #UnlockingEDGE

EDGE Dubai Advanced Seminar, 15–17 September 2026

We are closely monitoring the situation in Dubai and the wider Middle East in relation to the upcoming EDGE Advanced Seminar in September.

At this stage, it is too early to draw conclusions, but developments are being kept under regular review and IAPCO remains in close contact with relevant partners and local stakeholders.

The safety and wellbeing of all participants, partners and faculty remain the priority. The situation will continue to be assessed carefully with stakeholders over the coming weeks and months, and updates will be shared as appropriate. IAPCO remains hopeful for de-escalation and a stable environment for the successful delivery of EDGE Advanced in September.

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Dear Associations of the World...

IAPCO’s Dear Associations campaign – part of the #UnlockingExcellence series – continues to showcase the powerful impact of IAPCO Accredited PCOs and the associations they serve. It celebrates collaboration, innovation and measurable outcomes across meetings and communities worldwide.

See how IAPCO Members are driving real impact with Associations – explore the latest case studies below (with more to follow soon).

IAPCO Member: ICOM Group Client: Otorhinolaryngology Department at the Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University Event: Alexandria International Combined ORL Congress (AlexORL 2025) Date: 15–16 May 2025 Location: Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria, Egypt

Building a legacy in medical education: ICOM Group delivers AlexORL’s 40th anniversary congress For more than 15 years, ICOM Group, an IAPCO member, has partnered with the Otorhinolaryngology Department at the Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University in a collaboration defined by trust, innovation and shared purpose.

This enduring partnership culminated in the delivery of the 40th Alexandria International Combined ORL Congress (AlexORL 2025), held from 15 – 16 May 2025 at the prestigious Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The milestone event welcomed 2,000 specialists, academics, and young professionals for two days of scientific exchange, collaboration, and celebration.

Through ICOM Group’s strategic expertise and consistent support, AlexORL has evolved over forty uninterrupted years from a local scientific meeting into one of the Middle East and North Africa’s leading medical congresses. Today, it stands as a platform for scientific advancement, clinical and healthcare innovation, and international collaboration – strengthening Egypt’s position as a destination for medical excellence and conference tourism.

Testimonial Celebrating forty years of ALEXORL is not just a milestone, it’s a testament to our continuous commitment to advancing ENT education in the region. Every year, we aim to raise the bar, and this landmark edition was no exception. I am proud of what we’ve built together, and excited for the future ahead.

Professor Ahmed El Daly, President, AlexORL 2025 Conference

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See More

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IAPCO Member: Reed & Mackay Client: Spanish Society of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics (SEdO) Event: 71st SEdO Congress Date: 11–14 June 2025 Location: Víctor Villegas Auditorium and Congress Center, Murcia, Spain

SEdO Murcia 2025: Redefining orthodontics for a new generation When the Spanish Society of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics (SEdO) appointed Reed & Mackay to deliver its 71st Annual Congress, the objective went far beyond producing a highcalibre scientific meeting. SEdO sought to reposition itself for a new generation of orthodontists – modern, relevant, and deeply connected to the realities of today’s clinical professionals.

Reed & Mackay approached this mandate as a transformational initiative. The goal was to create a scientific, educational, and social experience that would elevate SEdO’s profile, expand its influence, and strengthen a sense of community among clinicians, industry, and emerging practitioners. Over three days, the Víctor Villegas Auditorium and Congress Center became a dynamic ecosystem of learning, interaction, and inspiration, hosting more than 1,000 attendees from across Spain.

The Congress also benefitted from strong institutional support, including the official opening by the Minister of Health of the Region of Murcia, Juan José Pedreño, and logistical collaboration from the Murcia City Council and the Murcia Convention Bureau.

Testimonial Reed & Mackay has been organising our annual Congress and other major events since 2017, and their commitment to excellence was once again evident at SEdO Murcia 2025. Their agile, reliable and highly professional approach ensured a seamless congress experience, while their creativity and strategic insight helped us broaden our audience, modernise our event model, and amplify SEdO’s impact before, during, and after the meeting.

Dr Raúl Ferrando, President, 71st SEdO Congress

See More

Find all the published Case Studies here

If you are an IAPCO Member, Destination Partner or a client of an IAPCO Member and would like to share the impact of your meeting or conference, please submit your case study using this link*.

We encourage all IAPCO Members to get behind this initiative – share it with your teams and clients, like and repost, and help amplify the message. * Member access only. Non-members: please contact IAPCO

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Join the IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group at IMEX Frankfurt 2026 19–21 May 2026 | Frankfurt, Germany EXCLUSIVE TO IAPCO MEMBERS As a valued IMEX partner, IAPCO is delighted to once again invite Members to join the IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group at IMEX Frankfurt 2026.

As the leading marketplace for the global meetings industry, IMEX Frankfurt brings professionals together to do business, build relationships and explore the latest trends, research and innovations. Designed for our community, this exclusive experience combines the international reach of IMEX with a tailored programme marked by the IAPCO seal of excellence.

What’s included: Travel to Frankfurt Complimentary accommodation Transfers Meetings with 3,100 exhibitors Networking to 12,000 participants Access to expert education, CE opportunities and exclusive lounge facilities An IAPCO programme full of meaningful education and networking IAPCO Members interested in attending are encouraged to register before the end of March, as early registration will help ensure the group can stay together in the same hotel, conveniently located close to the show.

Full registration details, including member-only application information, regional codes, and expected commitments, are available on the IAPCO Member Hub*.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join fellow Members in Frankfurt and be part of something exceptional at #IMEX26. *Member access only

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IAPCO Council convened in Thessaloniki, Greece, from 21 to 24 February 2026 for its first in-person Council meeting of the year.

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Thessaloniki Hosts IAPCO Council for Strategic Dialogue and Destination Engagement

Hosted by the Thessaloniki Convention Bureau and supported by Grand Hotel Palace Thessaloniki, IAPCO’s global leadership met to prepare for the AM&GA and also set strategic direction and momentum for the year ahead. The meeting highlighted Thessaloniki’s growing profile as an emerging destination for international congresses and association meetings, supported by strong local alignment across the city’s meetings, hospitality and tourism ecosystem.

Across four days, the programme combined strategic Council discussions, stakeholder engagement and destination discovery, offering a well-rounded perspective on Thessaloniki’s strengths as a business events destination. All sponsors and supporters of the Thessaloniki programme were members of the Thessaloniki Convention Bureau, underscoring a strong collective commitment to elevating the city’s position within the global congress and events landscape. The programme incorporated a carefully curated destination discovery element, designed to give Council members first-hand insight into Thessaloniki’s cultural depth, hospitality offering and strong sense of place. Culinary and experiential components, including Chef Stories, added an authentic local dimension and reinforced the city’s ability to combine professional excellence with memorable delegate experiences. On 24 February, the Thessaloniki Concert Hall hosted the stakeholders session and provided the setting for dialogue, exchange and co-creation around the future of congresses. The session brought together a strong cross-section of Thessaloniki’s destination ecosystem Together, these engagements positioned the Thessaloniki Council Meeting not only as an internal leadership gathering, but also as a strategic forum connecting international PCO leadership with destination stakeholders to explore collaboration, strengthen market readiness and support the future development of the meetings and congress industry. See more

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Jason Yeh voted as IAPCO President-Elect alongside new Council at AM&GA 2026

IAPCO has announced its new Council following the Annual Meeting & General Assembly 2026 in Athens, with Jason Yeh, GIS Group, Taiwan, elected as President-Elect. He will serve a one-year term before becoming President at the AM&GA in 2027.

Newly elected Council members are Ginerva De Bellis, Oic Group, Italy; Benoit Dubuisson, Downtown Europe, Belgium; and Jessica Ferguson, Arinex, Australia, while Giulia Sarri, AIM Group International, Italy, was ratified by Council. Sissi Lignou continues as President for another year.

Co-Opted Members include Alexandros Terzis, ERA Congresses and Events, Greece, in his role as Emerging Leaders Committee Chair, and Amit Saroj, IA Meetings, Singapore, in his role as an AM&GA Host 2027.

Find the profiles of the new IAPCO Council here.

IAPCO acknowledged and thanked the outgoing Council members, Limor Cunia and Ellen Franck, with special thanks given to Sarah Markey-Hamm, who has served on Council for eight years and in multiple capacities most recently as Immediate Past-President and chair of the Quality Committee, among others.

Lignou said: 'Volunteering for Council is a huge commitment that requires time, energy and a can-do spirit which all have given in abundance. Without such volunteer Council members, IAPCO would quite simply not be able to do such vast and important work for our members.

'Thank you to Sarah who has dedicated many years to IAPCO. Many initiatives she started will have a enduring legacy for IAPCO,' said Lignou. See more

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President and President Elect:

Sissi Lignou, AFEA Congress, Greece

Jason Yeh, GIS Group, Taiwan

Council Members:

Stephen Noble, The Conference Company, Australia

Ajay Bhojwani, MCI Group, UAE

Benoît Dubuisson, Downtown Europe (Europa Group), Belgium

Jessica Ferguson, Arinex, Australia

Jimena Ruiz, BTC Americas, Mexico

Giulia Sarri, AIM Group International, Italy

Ginevra de Bellis, OIC Group, Italy

Co-Opted Council Members:

Amit Saroj, IA Meetings, India

Alexandros Terzis, ERA Congresses & Events, Greece

Thank you to our outgoing Council Members:

Sarah Markey-Hamm, ICMS Pty Ltd

Limor Cunia, Kenes Group

Ellen Franck, Meetagain AB 25

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IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026

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Reinventing the Odyssey for the Meetings of Tomorrow From 25 to 28 February 2026, Athens welcomed the global IAPCO community for a landmark edition of the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly (AM&GA) 2026, bringing together 200 senior leaders from thirty-six countries to reflect on the future of the meetings industry and the role of people, leadership and purpose within it.

The programme shaped by dialogue and insight

Hosted at the Megaron Athens International Conference Centre under the theme 'The Odyssey Reinvented: A very human journey toward the meetings of tomorrow', this year’s edition explored how technological transformation is reshaping the way people meet, while reaffirming the human qualities that remain central to meaningful professional gatherings: leadership, adaptability, resilience, sound judgement and purpose.

During Annual Reflections, IAPCO leadership shared key milestones from the past year across education, accreditation, sustainability and global engagement. This forward-looking perspective continued in 'From IAPCO to the World: IAPCO’s Route in 2026', where Sissi Lignou, Sarah MarkeyHamm, Jason Yeh, Ajay Bhojwani, Jimena Ruiz, Giulia Sarri, Stephen Noble and Martin Boyle explored IAPCO’s priorities for the year ahead.

On 25 February 2026, the IAPCO AM&GA 2026 journey began by stepping beyond the meeting rooms and into the city of Athens. Inspired by 'The Odyssey Reinvented', four curated field trips offered Members the opportunity to experience the city through history, neighbourhood life, gastronomy and contemporary urban vision, each designed to connect people, places and ideas through meaningful, human encounters.

The programme also featured highly interactive formats designed to encourage practical engagement. Among the most impactful were The Dialogues, designed and moderated by Mathias Posch and Nicola McGrane and hosted by IAPCO Destination Partners and facilitated by industry leaders from IAPCO Member organisations.

The official opening of the event took place that evening with a private tour followed by a welcome reception at the Acropolis Museum, hosted by Fotini Karapapa of the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO). During the Opening Session, Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogianni, representing Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Mayor of Athens Haris Doukas underlined Athens’ strategic ambitions and the growing recognition of business events as drivers of economic growth, innovation and international collaboration.

In welcoming delegates, IAPCO President Sissi Lignou, in her dual capacity as IAPCO President and a member of the Local Organising Committee, connected Athens’ legacy with the purpose of the meeting. Referring to the city as the birthplace of democracy and the ancient symposia, she reminded participants that progress begins when people gather to exchange ideas with intention. Her remarks set the tone for a programme built around reflection, exchange and action.

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Inspired by Odysseus’ journey, the AM&GA programme combined governance, strategic discussion and keynote inspiration to examine the current state of the meetings industry and help shape its future.

Another highlight was 'The Meetings of Tomorrow' Industry Jeopardy – The Odyssey Edition, moderated by Ori Lahav, IAPCO Past President and Chair of the IAPCO AM&GA 2026. In a lively and unscripted format, CEOs of IAPCO’s Strategic Partners took the stage: Sven Bossu of AIPC, Dr Senthil Gopinath of ICCA, Sherrif Karamat of PCMA & CEMA, and Tina Wehmeir of AMCI. Their exchange created an energetic and candid discussion on innovation, collaboration, adaptation and the challenges ahead for the sector.

On the final day, Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO, was joined by Amy Calvert, President & CEO of the Events Industry Council (EIC), for a strategic discussion on the future direction of the global business events industry.

The keynote programme added further depth to the experience, with sessions exploring balance, resilience, storytelling, leadership and human connection. Highlights included contributions from Eleana Andreoudi, Despina Ploussiou, Angeliki Kosmopoulou, Panos Tzivanidis, and a Fortune Greece-led CEO conversation on resilience and leadership. A particularly moving closing keynote

Programme, sponsored by FIEXPO, extending leadership recognition into a region of growing strategic importance to the global meetings industry.

See more here

Governance, leadership and recognition

Athens also showcased the social value of meetings through a CSR initiative supporting the Mother Infant Center (Mitera), helping create safer and more supportive spaces for children without a stable family setting.

The General Assembly marked an important leadership milestone for IAPCO, confirming a new Council and welcoming Jason Yeh as PresidentElect. Newly elected Council Members Ginevra De Bellis, Benoît Dubuisson and Jessica Ferguson join IAPCO President Sissi Lignou, and continuing Council Members Jimena Ruiz, Stephen Noble and Ajay Bhojwani. Co-Opted Members are Alexandros Terzis and Amit Saroj. The Assembly also paid tribute to outgoing Council members Limor Cunia, Ellen Franck and Sarah Markey-Hamm for their dedicated service and valuable contribution to the IAPCO community. Read more on pages 24–25.

A further highlight was the awarding of Honorary Membership to Jan Tonkin, in recognition of her lifelong contribution to the PCO profession. Read more here.

Athens also highlighted IAPCO’s continued focus on standards and professionalism through a presentation on IAPCO Accreditation, led by Stephen Noble and Mathias Posch, underlining the Association’s investment in strengthening global excellence through the IAPCO ACE Accreditation pathway. More will be announced soon.

Sustainability and emerging leadership Athens also provided the setting for the presentation of key IAPCO awards recognising excellence in sustainability and emerging leadership. The inaugural IAPCO Sustainability Award, supported

by Business Events Australia, was presented to the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025

by K.I.T. Group. The 2026 IAPCO & NZICC Jan Tonkin Scholarship was awarded to Shimal Jaykant of Medical Conference Partners, Malaysia, while the 2026 Emerging Leader Award, supported by IAPCO Destination Partners, was presented to Cheryl Choy of International Conference Services (ICS), Singapore. See more on pages 42–44.

The meeting also saw the launch of the IAPCO & FIEXPO Latin America Jorge Castex Scholarship

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by Dimitris Papanikolaou and his daughter Aria brought a powerful message of strength, acceptance and empowerment. See more about all the guest speakers on pages 32–39.

Looking ahead As the event drew to a close, the AM&GA flag was ceremoniously passed from Athens to Mumbai, host of the 2027 Annual Meeting & General Assembly.

Delegates also received a preview of AM&GA 2028, which will take place in Cairo, Egypt, under the theme 'Rise As One – Partnering for Growth.'

AM&GA Athens 2026 was hosted collaboratively

by AFEA Congress, CONVIN S.A., ERA Congresses & Events and ERASMUS Conferences & Events S.A., together with official supporter and IAPCO Destination Partner This is Athens – Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Social programme and destination experience The AM&GA experience also extended beyond the conference halls through a carefully curated social programme that brought delegates into meaningful contact with the spirit of Athens. Across three evenings — at the city landmark Acropolis Museum, in picturesque Thissio at Cinapos, and at BLE Pavillon on the Athenian Riviera — participants experienced different facets of the city through culture, hospitality and shared celebration. These moments added an important destination dimension to the meeting, creating space for conversation, connection and reflection in memorable settings.

More than an annual gathering, IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026 was a statement of intent. It showed that while the meetings industry continues to evolve through technology, changing expectations and global transformation, its core strength remains profoundly human: the ability to bring people together with purpose, clarity and shared ambition.

In Athens, the odyssey was not only reinvented. It was lived.

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IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026 Highlights video

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Official LOC team

Official Supporter

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SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

SESSION ONE

KEYNOTE SESSIONS From Ithaca to Impact: Storytelling as a Compass for Meaningful Meetings Angeliki Kosmopoulou is the Executive Director of the A.C. Laskaridis Charitable Foundation. She holds a PhD in Classical Archaeology and an MBA. After a career in archaeology and cultural management, she worked in communications, advising organisations, politicians and academics.

She is Vice President of the Greek National Tourism Organisation and Greece’s National Coordinator for the transition away from single-use plastics. Angeliki also mentors women in public life, serves on several boards and contributes regularly to Greek media.

SESSION 1 SNAPSIGHT

Angeliki Kosmopoulou Story Strategist, Archaeologist, Author

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SESSION TWO

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From Athens to the World Stage; An IOC Perspective with Panos Tzivanidis Panos Tzivanidis is the Director of Corporate Events & Services at the International Olympic Committee (IOC), overseeing all IOC events worldwide, accommodation, travel and accreditation for the Olympic family, the Olympic Club, and the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. With over twenty-five years in the industry, he previously held senior roles at UEFA and SWIFT, leading the organisation of major international events including Sibos. A passionate advocate for the power of networking, his career has taken him across all corners of the world.

Panos Tzivanidis Director of Corporate Events & Services, International Olympic Committee, PCMA Member

Hazel Jackson is an entrepreneur and CEO of Biz Group, having built a multi-million dollar business from $700 in 1993 into a sixty-two-strong team delivering corporate training, learning technology, teambuilding and facilitation across the region. A Multipliers Master Practitioner, she delivers leadership workshops and keynotes to senior executives and is highly sought after as a conference facilitator and team engagement specialist. She attends up to six global thought leader conferences annually and is regularly engaged by local media for her learning industry perspective.

SESSION 2 SNAPSIGHT

Hazel Jackson AMGA Main Conductor. Multipliers Master Workshop Practitioner/Keynote Speaker, Facilitator, Virtual Instructor and CEO

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SESSION THREE

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS Leading Through the Odyssey.

A Business Leader’s Think Tank and Discussion led Talk by Fortune Greece Apostolos Mangiriadis is the Central News Bulletin’s newscaster at the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT) and presenter of two political talk shows (Epilogue, ERTalks).

He has worked as a political correspondent and newscaster at SKAI and MEGA tv networks and was a contributing writer at TA NEA and KATHIMERINI newspapers. In 2024 he was awarded with the highest distinction for journalists in Greece, the Botsis foundation award. He studied Political Science at the University of Athens and holds a Master in International Affairs (MIA) from Columbia University.

Apostolos Mangiriadis News Anchor of Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT)

Antigoni Xioni has more than twenty-five years of experience in Senior Management and Leadership Roles. During her career, she has developed growth strategies for multiple and diverse businesses and markets and has built strong organisations to manage changing cultures. She has worked in leading local and multinational companies, as 3M, Intralot and Rainbow Waters. She has also long international and multicultural experience in Central East European Countries and Latin America. Antigoni holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management from Deree American College of Greece and she is also certified Black Belt Six Sigma.

Antigoni Xioni CEO People for Business

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IAPCO NEWS | I S S U E # 1 2 2 E D I T I O N 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

SESSION THREE

AT H E N S 2 0 2 6 Iakovos Michalitsis is a Senior Executive with track record and years of success in leadership, operational and financial positions, delivering demanding growth and large-scale transformation objectives within diverse, conflicting and rapidly changing multinational environments. Successful in crafting relationships across levels and key internal and external stake holders, identifying and seizing control of critical problem areas and delivering on results and commitments.

Iakovos Michalitsis General Manager South Europe Bausch+Lomb

Panagiotis Kouris manages Office Line S. A. as Chief Executive Officer and IT Consultant. Panagiotis holds several degrees and certifications from major global IT vendors and he actively participates in various conferences as a considerable member and a distinguished keynote speaker. With more than twentyfive years of experience in the IT industry, Panagiotis has gained extensive experience in the design and implementation of challenging projects, helping organisations respond to real time challenges, no matter how complex or specialised the business requirements are.

SESSION 3 SNAPSIGHT

Panagiotis Kouris CEO Office Line

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| IAPCO NEWS

SESSION FOUR

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS An Odyssey into the Future Being Human in a Technology Era Pascal Morgan is a technology pioneer, digital transformation advisor and passionate speaker with over thirty-two years of experience across Fortune 500 companies including CocaCola, Deutsche Telekom and AOL. Founder of think.speak. transform., he advises startups and corporations on disruptive technologies, new business models and ethical challenges for a sustainable future. A senior mentor at Germantech, former Board Member of the European Technology Chamber and faculty member of the Futur/io Institute, he studied Philosophy in Frankfurt and trained in choreography and professional speaking.

SESSION 4 SNAPSIGHT

Pascal Morgan

SESSION FIVE

Speaker, moderator, futurist

The Odyssey Within: From Survival to Homecoming Despina Ploussiou is a psychotherapist and founding visionary of the Syros Healing Waves Festival, specialising in trauma, PTSD and Complex PTSD. She co-founded the Trauma2Therapy Institute and holds advanced Level 3 training in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), having studied with Bessel van der Kolk, Richard Schwartz and Janina Fisher. The official Greek translator and scientific editor of IFS theory, she directs IFS trainings in Greece and has contributed scholarly translations of key works in the field. Since 2004, she has maintained a private practice in Voula, Attica.

SESSION 5 SNAPSIGHT

Despina Ploussiou Psychologist, Trauma Therapist

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SESSION SIX

AT H E N S 2 0 2 6 Turning Autism into Strength: A Family’s Journey of Resilience Dimitris Papanikolaou is a former international basketball player with a distinguished career at both national and club level. His achievements include European and World titles with national youth teams, major European titles at men’s level, multiple Greek Championships and Cups, and individual distinctions for performance and ethics. After retiring from professional sports, he was honored for his sportsmanship and has since focused on social impact initiatives. He is a highly sought-after speaker, delivering inspirational talks in Greece and abroad, raising awareness about autism and promoting resilience, values and inclusion.

Dimitris Papanikolaou Former international professional basketball player, multi-time European and Olympic champion, inspirational speaker

Aria Papanikolaou was born in 2006 and is a high school graduate with a strong passion for acting, voice acting, and animation. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, she has become an active advocate for neurodiversity. She speaks Greek and English fluently, as well as Spanish and Japanese.

Aria has participated in international film productions, festivals and public events, and serves as an ambassador for autism awareness initiatives. Together with her father, she delivers talks and creative projects that inspire audiences and promote inclusion, strength and acceptance through art and storytelling.

SESSION 6 SNAPSIGHT

Aria Papanikolaou Young speaker, voice actress, actress, future animation professional – personal journey with autism a source of strength

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| IAPCO NEWS

INTERACTIVE SESSIONS

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Industry Jeopardy – The Odyssey Edition An interactive discussion with IAPCO’s strategic partners led by:

Industry Thought Leadership Session I

Ori Lahav is the Chief Executive Officer of Kenes Group, a leading global Professional Congress Organiser with nearly sixty years of experience advancing medical and scientific knowledge worldwide. A former President of IAPCO and elected member of the PCMA Board of Directors, his leadership is widely recognised across the international business events community. Under his guidance, Kenes became one of the first PCOs globally to achieve ISO 20121:2024 certification for sustainable event management.

Named by Eventex among the 100 most influential people in the meetings industry, Ori is passionate about technology, AI and data to create meaningful connections and longterm value for associations and society. He holds a BA in Statistics from the University of Haifa and an MBA from the University of Derby.

Ori Lahav CEO, Kenes Group, Board Member PCMA, IAPCO Past President

Sven Bossu is the CEO of AIPC, the global association of convention centres. He also sits on the Board of the European Society of Association Executives and is an advisor for the Board of INAA, the International Association of Accountants and Auditors. Prior to taking on the leadership of AIPC, Sven worked in the financial services sector for twenty years, in various international roles.

Sven Bossu CEO, AIPC

Dr Senthil Gopinath is the CEO of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), leading a global network of over 1,150 members across 100 countries. With more than twenty years of experience, he has played a key role in positioning destinations on the global stage and delivering high-impact international events. Known for driving innovation, fostering global collaboration and building sustainable growth, he was recognised as Global Business Events Strategist of the Year. Senthil holds a European BBA, an MBA from the UK and a Ph.D., reflecting a strong commitment to lifelong learning.

Dr Senthil Gopinath CEO, ICCA

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Sherrif Karamat

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Sherrif Karamat is President and CEO of PCMA and CEMA, the world's largest community for business events strategists, delivering education, networking and market intelligence globally. A prominent business architect, he leads PCMA's vision to enable communities to become catalysts for economic and social progress. He serves on the boards of the Events Industry Council, the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance, and the Titans of Chicagoland, and is a member of George Washington University's Leadership Council. A three-time Titan of Chicago and inductee of the Titan Hall of Fame, Sherrif holds an MBA from York University and has completed executive programmes at Wharton, Kellogg, Harvard and MIT.

CAE – President and CEO, PCMA and CEMA

Tina M. Wehmeir is the CEO of AMC Institute, bringing over twenty-five years of experience in the association and hospitality arena. Her career spans senior leadership roles at the Institute of Food Technologists, Talley Management Group, the Canadian Tourism Commission, Gaylord Hotels (Marriott International) and Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. An active industry leader, she serves on the Board of the Events Industry Council in an officer capacity and has held board roles at ASAE and PCMA. Recognised as one of twelve Women Who Advance Associations, Tina is widely respected for her ability to drive strategic growth in complex organisations.

Tina M. Wehmeir CMP, CAE, President and Chief Executive Officer, AMC Institute

INTERACTIVE SESSION SNAPSIGHT

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| IAPCO NEWS

The IAPCO Dialogues

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Nicola McGrane is the Founder and CEO of Conference Partners International (CPI) and Event Partners Ireland, established in 1998 and grown into two of Europe's leading multi-award-winning PCO and event-management companies. Over more than twentyfive years, she has delivered over 500+ international conferences across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia. She served five years on the IAPCO board and now holds the role of European Regional Representative of the IAPCO Training Academy.

A founding member and past chair of AIPCO, and chairperson of INCON, Nicola is a trusted adviser to associations, corporations, universities and government bodies globally, known for her values-driven leadership grounded in quality, trust and integrity.

Nicky McGrane CEO Conference Partners International and Event Partners, IAPCO European Director of Education, Founder and Co-chair AIPCO

Mathias Posch is the Chairman and President of International Conference Services (ICS), headquartered in Canada with offices across the US, UK, EU, Singapore and Japan, delivering conferences in more than forty countries across six continents. Over twenty years, he has grown ICS into a truly international organisation, pioneering largescale virtual conferences since 2011. A Past President of IAPCO, he currently chairs the IAPCO Accreditation Committee and previously chaired the Training Academy, playing a pivotal role in shaping its current education offering. He serves on the INCON board, is a frequent speaker at major conferences worldwide, and advises scientific and medical associations on global strategy and organisational development.

Mathias Posch President of International Conference Services for(ICS), IAPCO Past President

THE IAPCO DIALOGUES 1 SNAPSIGHT

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THE IAPCO DIALOGUES 2 SNAPSIGHT

THE IAPCO DIALOGUES 3 SNAPSIGHT

Ithaca and After: The Strategy and Reality of Exiting a Business Hazel Jackson is an entrepreneur and CEO of Biz Group, having built a multi-million dollar business from $700 in 1993 into a sixty-two-strong team delivering corporate training, learning technology, teambuilding and facilitation across the region. A Multipliers Master Practitioner, she delivers leadership workshops and keynotes to senior executives and is highly sought after as a conference facilitator and team engagement specialist. She attends up to six global thought leader conferences annually and is regularly engaged by local media for her learning industry perspective.

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Engagement Session

Hazel Jackson AMGA Main Conductor. Multipliers Master Workshop Practitioner/Keynote Speaker, Facilitator, Virtual Instructor & CEO

ENGAGEMENT SESSION SNAPSIGHT

Thought Leadership Feedback Session II The Meetings of Tomorrow: Feedback from the Industry Leaders Strategic Partners Amy Calvert is the President and CEO of the Events Industry Council (EIC), bringing over two decades of experience in the hospitality and events sector. At the helm of the EIC, she leads with a focus on strategic growth, innovation, and elevating event experiences globally. Known for cultivating strategic relationships that strengthen the meetings and visitor industry, Amy balances organisational vision with measurable outcomes and fiscal oversight of multi-million-dollar budgets. Under her leadership, the EIC team consistently surpasses revenue targets and outperforms market competitors, reflecting a collective commitment to excellence and her role as both leader and ambassador for the wider events community.

Amy Calvert President and CEO, Events Industry Council

Martin Boyle is the CEO of IAPCO, bringing decades of experience across the global business events industry. After founding a corporate event management company and a digital marketing start-up in Canada in the late 1990s, he spent twenty-six years working with government bodies, convention centres, PCOs, and six years as Director of Europe for the Convention Bureau of Sydney before joining IAPCO in 2019. Since then, he has developed a new five-year strategic plan, driven international engagement and partnerships, and ensured organisational sustainability. He serves on the JMIC Board, represents IAPCO on the EIC, and is a frequent speaker at industry events worldwide.

Martin Boyle CEO, IAPCO

FEEDBACK SESSION SNAPSIGHT

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| IAPCO NEWS

S U STA I N A B I L I T Y AWA R D W I N N E R

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Setting the Standard: K.I.T. Group GmbH Wins Inaugural IAPCO Sustainability Award 2026 model made collective accountability a structural feature of the event. The entire exhibition was delivered using modular, reusable and recyclable materials, demonstrating that large-scale exhibitions can be both visually compelling and environmentally sound. A robust hybrid model, including hybrid voting for the Members’ Assembly, further reduced travel emissions whilst broadening global access and democratic participation.

From left to right: Sissi Lignou, IAPCO President; Jocelyne Muelli, Managing Director at K.I.T. Group GmbH; Nicolaus Kausch, Executive Director – Sales at K.I.T. Group GmbH; Kelly Maynard, General Manager Business Events at Business Events Australia; and Ajay Bhojwani, Chair of the IAPCO Sustainability Committee, on stage at the IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026.

From fourteen high-quality nominations to a live audience vote in Athens, the first IAPCO Sustainability Award found a worthy inaugural winner in K.I.T. Group GmbH. When the IAPCO community gathered in Athens for the 2026 AM&GA, one of the most anticipated moments was the announcement of a brand-new accolade: the IAPCO Sustainability Award, supported by IAPCO partner Business Events Australia. In its inaugural edition, the award attracted fourteen nominations from nine member companies, which were shortlisted to three finalists by a Judging Panel of Global Industry Leaders, before being put to a live audience vote on stage. The winner was K.I.T. Group GmbH, whose Managing Director Jocelyne Muelli accepted the award on behalf of the team.

The winning entry centred on K.I.T. Group’s delivery of the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in October 2025. Bringing together over 12,000 participants to advance global environmental action, the Congress was a fitting canvas for a sustainability programme of genuine ambition. K.I.T. Group GmbH implemented a 360-degree sustainability management system aligned with ISO 20121:2024, embedding responsible practices across every workstream – from procurement and transport to exhibition design and stakeholder reporting – and ultimately achieving full ISO 20121 certification for the event.

‘This progressive model shifted carbon responsibility from voluntary to collective action, embedding climate accountability directly into the event ecosystem.’

Several innovations stood out as genuine firsts at this scale.

Most notably, K.I.T. Group GmbH introduced a compulsory carbon offset contribution for every participant, exhibitor and supplier, calculated on the basis of country of origin, mode of transport and number of days onsite. Rather than leaving climate responsibility as an opt-in gesture, this 44

Community engagement and lasting legacy were equally central to the submission. Through a co-created programme with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, the Congress delivered youth workshops, volunteer environmental initiatives and technical tours showcasing local conservation efforts. All plants and trees deployed at the event were either donated or returned to local nurseries. The governance structure was deliberately distributed: sustainability responsibilities were embedded across every functional team rather than siloed in a single department, with clear expectations, shared accountability and transparent reporting throughout.

The two shortlisted finalists – ESCRS Congress 2025

by MCI Switzerland and 5th ISHF 2025 by Conference Partners International – were also congratulated for their outstanding achievements and commitment to advancing sustainable event delivery.

With forty years of experience in large-scale, missiondriven events, K.I.T. Group GmbH has long championed the principle that operational excellence and environmental responsibility are not in tension. The IUCN Congress 2025 made that case convincingly, setting a new regional and sectoral benchmark that other PCOs will look to for years to come. For IAPCO, the first Sustainability Award has set an appropriately high bar.

The PCO of the Future, Built Today: Cheryl Choy Wins IAPCO Emerging Leader Award 2026 ‘It’s not just about efficiency – it’s about creating a team culture where collaboration, growth and adaptability are part of everyday life.’

Cheryl Choy, Project Manager, Asia – International Conference Services (ICS), Singapore, accepting the award on stage at the IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026, with IAPCO President Sissi Lignou and the attending IAPCO Destination Partners.

Supported and selected by the IAPCO Destination Partners, the Emerging Leader Award was presented at the 2026 IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly in Athens to recognise an outstanding individual from a field of six high-quality nominations. The entries were independently assessed by a jury panel comprising representatives from IAPCO’s nine Destination Partners, evaluated against weighted criteria including innovation, impact, leadership and professional contribution.

The winner, Cheryl Choy, Head of Project Management for Asia Pacific at the Member Company International Conference Services (ICS) in Singapore, received the award on stage – a moment that felt well-earned for someone who has spent the past year doing the quiet, determined work of institutional change.

At the heart of Choy’s nomination was the Dual Role Framework, an initiative she designed and implemented within ICS’s APAC team with a deceptively simple premise: help people work smarter by breaking down the silos between Registration, Programme Management, Sponsorship and Operations. Through structured crosstraining, skills mapping and a mentorship system that paired experienced colleagues with those learning new functions, the framework transformed how the team operates. Wrike was adopted as a central project management platform to embed dual-role responsibilities into day-to-day workflows, creating a single source of truth for an entirely remote workforce.

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EMERGING LEADER AWARD WINNER

The outcomes were tangible. Workflow bottlenecks reduced, project timelines shortened and meeting fatigue decreased as deep work time increased. Staff reported higher job satisfaction and greater confidence, with career pathways that felt genuinely expansive rather than narrowly defined. Talent retention improved, and the framework has since attracted interest from other regional teams within the organisation. ICS itself offered an unequivocal endorsement: ‘She is not just managing change; she is proactively designing the solutions that will define our industry’s success for the next decade.’

Choy’s vision for the industry extends well beyond her own team. In her written submission, she set out a compelling picture of the PCO of the future: technologically fluent, sustainability-conscious, culturally aware and operationally agile. She sees AI not as a threat to the human dimension of events but as a tool to free teams to focus on what matters most – strategic thinking, stakeholder relationships and meaningful attendee experience. On sustainability, she is equally direct: it must be embedded at the design stage, not bolted as an afterthought, and leaders have a personal responsibility to build their own expertise and pass it on.

What makes Choy a compelling choice for this award is the consistency between her vision and her practice. The Dual Role Framework is not a theoretical proposal; it is a working model, already delivering results, already being replicated. For IAPCO and its Destination Partners, the inaugural Emerging Leader Award has gone to someone who embodies exactly what the accolade was created to celebrate: a professional who is actively building the future, here and now.

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SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Leading with Purpose: Meet Shimal Jaykant, the 2026 IAPCO and NZICC Jan Tonkin Scholarship ‘I want the learning to travel further than me.’

Her vision for the APAC region is equally compelling.

She anticipates a high-tech, high-touch future in which AI manages logistics quietly in the background, whilst the true differentiator remains face-to-face connection – ‘especially in a region as culturally varied as ours.’ She aims to design medical and association congresses that feel genuinely human and locally attuned, and to mentor the next generation of APAC talent.

From left to right: Sissi Lignou, IAPCO President; Shimal Jaykant, Conference & Events Manager at Medical Conference Partners; and Stephen Noble, Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy, on stage at the IAPCO AM&GA Athens 2026.

Five years into her career and already a PCMA '20 in their Twenties' honoree, Shimal Jaykant, Conference and Events Manager at Medical Conference Partners, is precisely the kind of emerging talent the Jan Tonkin Scholarship was created for.

Named after former IAPCO President and former IAPCO Training Academy Chair Jan Tonkin and supported by the New Zealand International Conference Centre (NZICC), the IAPCO & NZICC 2026 Jan Tonkin Scholarship is presented annually at the IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly to recognise exceptional leadership promise. This year's presentation – the second edition – took place in Athens, where Shimal received her certificate on stage from IAPCO President Sissi Lignou and Stephen Noble, Chair of the Training Academy, before addressing delegates with a gracious word of thanks.

Her application stood out for its intellectual honesty as much as its ambition. Having completed the IAPCO Emerging Leaders Programme, she described a shift from leading through effort – ‘doing, fixing, pushing projects forward’ – to leading with intention: shaping team culture through trust, clear ownership and feedback that raises standards without eroding dignity. In her day-to-day work managing peers of a similar age, she reframed decisions in terms of shared outcomes rather than personal opinion.

The result, she noted, was a team that ‘stays aligned even under pressure.’

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Shimal arrived in Athens not as a passive attendee but with a structured plan: identify capability gaps, seek targeted conversations with senior IAPCO members and return home with a concrete action list for her team and local network. It is an approach that reflects the ethos she expressed so plainly in her application: ‘I care about doing this work with excellence and with integrity, even when no one is watching.’ In an industry built on trust, IAPCO has found a worthy recipient for 2026.

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IAPCO Driving Excellence Innovation Award 2026 Innovation is Already Happening.

Make Sure It’s Recognised.

Nominations Close 5 April 2026 Across the global meetings industry, innovation is happening every day. From creative event design and breakthrough technologies to smarter operational strategies, Professional Congress Organisers continue to find new ways to elevate the delivery and impact of international congresses.

The IAPCO Driving Excellence Innovation Award, supported

by IMEX, celebrates the individuals within IAPCO Member organisations who are leading this progress – transforming challenges into innovative solutions that raise the standards of our profession. If you know someone whose creativity, initiative and forward-thinking approach has redefined the way events are organised, this is the moment to ensure their work is recognised.

Supported by

Nominate Now Time to Nominate Nominations are open until 5 April 2026 for innovations delivered at events that took place in 2025.

The winner will be revealed during the IMEX Frankfurt Gala Evening in May 2026, one of the most prestigious moments in the global meetings industry calendar.

Who Can Enter • Any full-time employee of an IAPCO Member company can be nominated • Each IAPCO Member company may submit one nomination • Nominees may come from Member companies or registered Member Offices

The Award The winner will receive: • The IAPCO Innovation Award Trophy • Recognition at the IMEX Frankfurt Gala Evening 2026 • Two tickets to attend the IMEX Gala Evening • Complimentary registration to the IAPCO Annual Meeting 2027 in Mumbai • The right to use the IAPCO Innovation Award logo in professional communications

Entries will be evaluated by the IAPCO Council, recognising the creativity, complexity and measurable outcomes of the innovation.

Don’t Miss the Deadline Innovation deserves recognition.

Submit your nomination before 5 April 2026 and help celebrate the innovators shaping the future of the meetings industry. See more and nominate here

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| IAPCO NEWS

Upcoming Education and Events

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Dates for your diary for education, networking and professional development provided and supported by IAPCO.

MARCH 2026

EDGE Auckland 2026 IAPCO EDGE Auckland 2026 has just wrapped at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), bringing the global meetings industry together for a milestone edition of IAPCO’s flagship seminar.

Having officially turned 10 in August 2025, EDGE is being celebrated throughout 2026 as a landmark year for the programme. That made this edition especially significant, as Auckland was the first city ever to host an IAPCO EDGE Seminar. Returning to where it all began marked not only a decade of impact, but also a meaningful full-circle moment in the EDGE story.

Hosted at the newly opened NZICC, an IAPCO Convention Centre Partner, this year’s seminar brought together some of the industry’s leading minds for an immersive, masterclass-style learning experience in a world-class venue.

The programme was designed to challenge and engage participants’ thinking, with Stephen Noble, Chair of IAPCO’s Training Academy, joined by Jan Tonkin and Mathias Posch in shaping a thoughtprovoking seminar experience. They were joined by seminar speakers Alana Bicknell of NZICC and Craig Muller of Uno Loco.

Stay tuned for highlights from this special edition and see what happened when the industry came together to learn, connect and be part of business events history.

16–19 March 2026

SEE MORE

IAPCO and Leading Centres of Europe Workshop 2026 Taking place next week in Munich, Germany, the IAPCO and Leading Centres of Europe Workshop 2026 marks the next chapter in the ongoing collaboration between the two organisations. After three years of exploring joint business models, strategic partnerships and communication styles, this year’s annual senior leaders workshop will focus on Negotiating and Influencing Skills.

The 2026 programme is designed to explore the tools needed to build strong relationships with colleagues, customers and partners, with a particular emphasis on active listening, influencing and emotional awareness. The workshop will be presented by Andrew McFarlan of Pink Elephant Communications and Colin Harper, former Hostage and Crisis Negotiator and Negotiation Lead at Police Scotland.

Representing IAPCO at the workshop will be IAPCO President Sissi Lignou and Sofia Laddaji, IAPCO Community Engagement & Partnerships Manager.

Co-hosted by IAPCO and the Leading Centres of Europe, the workshop continues to provide a dedicated space for senior leaders to exchange perspectives and strengthen collaboration across the international meetings industry.

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IAPCO CEO Martin Boyle will represent the global IAPCO community at the ESAE European Association Summit 2026 on 26 March in Brussels, Belgium, reflecting IAPCO’s ongoing advocacy work to champion professionalism, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and promote the value and impact of the global meetings and events industry.

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ESAE European Association Summit 2026

The European Association Summit & Awards is the annual gathering for Association professionals across Europe! Over the years, the Summit has established itself as a key reference point for peer-topeer knowledge exchange. Organised by ESAE, the 2026 edition is crafted by and for Association leaders, with a strong focus on cocreation, collaborative learning, and celebrating excellence within our community.

The overarching theme of EAS 2026 is Define Tomorrow, Act Today: Leading Together for Impact. It reflects our shared commitment to shaping the future of associations through decisive, collective action.

Please note that access to EAS is reserved exclusively for Association professionals and ESAE partners.

26 March 2026

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MAY 2026

IMEX Frankfurt 2026 IMEX Frankfurt is set to be another exciting week for IAPCO, and we invite you to join us as we continue to Unlock Excellence in the global meetings industry.

What to expect: •E ducation sessions and pop-up learning with the IAPCO seal of excellence •A dvocacy activity supporting members and the wider meetings industry •N etworking events bringing together the international IAPCO community • Exclusive activities with Destination Partners •T he announcement of the IAPCO Innovation Award Winner at the IMEX Gala Dinner • A dedicated Hosted Buyer Group, exclusively for IAPCO Members • The chance to meet the HQ team at the IAPCO and AMCI stand From insightful education and industry advocacy to vibrant networking and community-building, IAPCO will bring its signature energy to IMEX 2026 with a dynamic programme of activity throughout the show and inspiring opportunities to engage with a global community committed to quality, innovation and impact.

Find the preliminary programme here.

Stay tuned for more updates and details coming soon.

Meet us at IMEX and discover how we are Unlocking Excellence — together.

19–21 May 2026

SEE MORE

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Hands That Save a Life: Translating awareness into national cardiac safety readiness Since 2017, Expand has positioned itself as a catalyst for change across the MENA region, delivering awarenessdriven initiatives that move beyond messaging into measurable action. Operating as a specialised affiliate of ICOM Group, Expand focuses on public health education, community engagement and purpose-led programmes that empower individuals and institutions to make informed, life-impacting decisions.

By the end of 2025, Expand had implemented the initiative across more than forty institutions, training over 2,500 participants nationwide, establishing a growing network of certified first responders and increasing AED awareness and accessibility across multiple governorates.

This philosophy sits at the heart of the Sudden Cardiac Death Awareness Initiative, known publicly as ‘Hands That Save a Life’, a national programme addressing one of the most critical yet preventable public health challenges of our time.

One of the most recent and strategically significant implementation waves took place on January 2026 at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), shortly after its official grand opening.

Sudden Cardiac Death remains among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, frequently occurring without warning and outside hospital environments. In such cases, survival is determined by immediate response, early cardiopulmonary resuscitation and timely use of automated external defibrillators. Yet, in many public spaces, these capabilities remain underdeveloped or absent.

From awareness to preparedness: A national initiative managed by Expand In response to this gap, the ‘Hands That Save a Life’ initiative was officially launched in 2025 through a national cooperation protocol between Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, in collaboration with the Cardiovascular Research, Education and Prevention Foundation (CVREP). Expand was appointed as the programme’s managing and executing partner, responsible for planning, coordination, delivery and performance monitoring The initiative is designed to transform public spaces into heart-safe environments by training non-medical personnel in CPR and AED use, strengthening emergency preparedness and embedding life-saving knowledge within everyday community settings. Its scope spans sports clubs, youth centres, schools, universities, corporates, cultural institutions and high-traffic public venues.

Structured as a multi-year national programme, the initiative is planned to reach twenty-seven cities and 250 institutions, with over 4,500 participants trained over two years. Each workshop combines cardiology awareness with intensive hands-on CPR and AED training, ensuring that participants leave not only informed, but operationally ready to act when every second counts

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Grand Egyptian Museum wave: A strategic and timely intervention

With thousands of local and international visitors received daily, the museum represents one of Egypt’s highesttraffic cultural destinations. In this context, emergency preparedness is not optional, it is a core component of operational responsibility and visitor safety.

During this wave, museum staff participated in a handson CPR and AED workshop delivered by certified professionals from the Egyptian Red Crescent. The training focused on real-life emergency scenarios relevant to frontline museum operations, equipping staff with the confidence and skills required to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies.

Participant feedback underscored the immediate impact of the workshop: ‘The workshop significantly increased our confidence in responding to medical emergencies.

The hands-on CPR and AED training was clear, practical, and directly relevant to our daily responsibilities. We now feel better prepared to act quickly and responsibly if a lifethreatening situation occurs.’

By equipping frontline staff with life-saving skills, this wave directly enhanced visitor safety, strengthened crisis readiness at a landmark destination and aligned public health preparedness with tourism resilience and national reputation. More importantly, it demonstrated how hightraffic public venues can proactively safeguard lives while setting a benchmark for cultural, sports and tourism facilities across the country.

Expand’s role extends beyond training execution. The initiative is governed through defined KPIs, standardised curricula aligned with international guidelines and phased geographic expansion. Digital infrastructure supports the programme through an official website, centralised registration and a national AED location map identifying devices across ministries and public venues such as airports, metro stations and malls. A dedicated mobile application is scheduled for launch in 2026, further

ON-POINT ARTICLE | I S S U E # 1 2 2 E D I T I O N 1 ( 2 0 2 6 )

enhancing data accessibility and emergency readiness Commenting on the initiative, Ahmed El Chal, Chairman of ICOM Group, stated: ‘Expand was created to turn awareness into practical action. “Hands That Save a Life” demonstrates how strong execution, clear accountability and effective partnerships can translate national health goals into real emergency preparedness in public spaces.

Within ICOM Group, operational experience supports venue readiness, while Expand leads training, education and community engagement.’

From Expand’s leadership, Nihal Maharem, Business Development Director at Expand, added: ‘Our objective was never to deliver isolated training sessions. We are building a scalable national framework that empowers communities, strengthens institutions and embeds preparedness into everyday environments.’

‘Hands That Save a Life’ offers a compelling case study of how PCO-driven capabilities can extend into public health and social sustainability. It demonstrates how awareness, when paired with structure, governance and scale, can evolve into lasting national impact.

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Strengthening the Human Side of Operational Excellence: Preparing event professionals for the meetings of tomorrow The meetings and events industry is no stranger to complexity. Tight timelines, multiple stakeholders, constant change and high expectations are part of everyday life for event professionals.

Technology has undoubtedly helped the industry become more efficient, connected and scalable. Yet, as systems become faster and more sophisticated, the human demands behind the scenes continue to rise.

for the meetings of tomorrow. At the same time, they equipped us with practical skills to navigate complexity, pressure and constant change with greater clarity and confidence.

Mental clarity under pressure In our industry, pressure rarely comes from a single source.

It builds up through parallel deadlines, high expectations, constant coordination and the unspoken assumption that everything must work, regardless of circumstances. In such environments, stress is often intensified not by the situation itself, but by internal patterns of interpretation.

A key insight was the role of so-called internal drivers: unconscious inner messages such as ‘be perfect’, ‘please everyone’ or ‘try harder’. While these drivers often support high performance, they can also create constant selfimposed pressure and a tendency to remain in permanent execution mode.

In this environment, the question is no longer only how meetings are organised, but how the people who deliver them can remain focussed and resilient over time. The theme of this edition captures this challenge well. Like Odysseus, today’s event professionals must navigate uncertainty with resourcefulness, patience and sound decision-making.

While digital tools, automation and data-driven processes are transforming the way people meet and connect, they do not reduce the emotional and cognitive load carried by our event teams. On the contrary, the combination of increasing complexity, digital overload and growing performance pressure often intensifies stress levels.

Resilience is therefore no longer a personal trait that some possess and others do not, but it is becoming a core professional capability in the meetings industry.

At Interplan, this understanding led to the introduction of the Inner Focus Days: two dedicated days designed to strengthen stress competence and resilience within the organisation. Rather than focusing on abstract concepts, the programme aimed to explore what our #congressheroes actually need in order to stay effective, grounded and adaptable in a high-pressure environment.

The insights gained during these days highlighted three human capabilities that will become increasingly critical

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Developing mental stress competence means creating awareness for these patterns within teams and leadership contexts and learning to regulate them consciously in everyday collaboration. Rather than reacting automatically, teams gain the ability to pause, reassess and choose more deliberate responses, even under time pressure. For event professionals, this mental clarity is essential not only for individual well-being, but for maintaining judgement and decision quality in complex situations.

Actionability in complex environments Building on this mental clarity, a second critical capability is the ability to remain action-oriented in environments characterised by high responsibility, interdependencies and constant coordination. In our industry, complexity arises from the need to continuously align multiple stakeholders, timelines and expectations, often in parallel and under time pressure.

One of the most relevant learnings was the importance of deliberately directing focus in complex situations. By distinguishing between what requires immediate action, what can be shaped through coordination and what simply needs to be acknowledged, teams can avoid mental overload and remain effective in their steering role.

For the meetings industry, this capability is particularly relevant. Actionability does not mean reacting to everything at once but making conscious choices about priorities and next steps. This clarity enables teams to regain the ability to act, collaborate more effectively and navigate complexity with confidence and composure.

Sustainable performance through recovery Our industry is known for its high pace and intense delivery phases. Recovery is often postponed until after major milestones, while teams remain in continuous performance mode for extended periods. Yet sustained performance in complex environments requires the ability to regulate energy continuously, not only during downtime.

A central insight was that recovery does not necessarily require long breaks, but awareness. Recognising early physical, emotional and cognitive warning signals allows individuals and teams to intervene before exhaustion sets in. Short, intentional pauses (even brief moments of physical or mental reset) can significantly support longterm performance and decision-making capacity.

Reframing recovery as a professional competence rather than a personal indulgence changes how performance is understood. In a people-driven industry, the ability to consciously step out of performance mode is not a weakness, but a prerequisite for resilience, leadership and reliability.

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As PCOs, we actively manage communication between venues, clients, suppliers and partners, translating requirements and priorities across different systems and perspectives. Even with strong structures and clear processes in place, short-term adjustments, new information and shifting priorities are part of daily operations. The challenge is therefore cognitive load: deciding where attention and energy are most needed at any given moment.

Why this matters for the meetings of tomorrow The Inner Focus Days reinforced a broader understanding: while technology continues to transform how meetings are planned and delivered, human capabilities determine whether this transformation is sustainable. Resilient teams are better equipped to navigate uncertainty, make sound decisions and maintain quality under pressure.

Odysseus’ journey reminds us that overcoming adversity requires more than clever tools. It requires inner orientation, adaptability and the ability to act consciously in challenging situations. For event professionals, these qualities are becoming just as critical as operational excellence or technical expertise.

In an industry built on precision, trust and collaboration, investing in inner resilience is not a soft initiative, but a strategic one. The meetings of tomorrow will not only be shaped by innovation on stage or digital platforms, but by the mental clarity, adaptability and resilience of the people behind them.

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| MEMBER NEWS

AFEA CONGRESS

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

AFEA Congress Lays the Foundations for a Sustainable Congress Ecosystem in Greece Through its Participation in the fuTOURiSME Programme Co-funded by the European Union, the fuTOURiSME programme aims to enhance innovation, sustainability and digital transformation for small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) in Europe.

Through the implementation of the MICE-VISION project, AFEA Congress is upgrading congress and event management services by integrating sustainable and digital tools. The project focuses on embedding sustainability into operational processes and event workflows, utilising digital solutions to enhance transparency, efficiency and environmental footprint measurement. At the same time, the project supports the alignment of AFEA Congress with the international GSTC-MICE standard, accelerating its progress towards becoming a certified sustainable PCO, verified through a rigorous audit by an independent accredited body.

Within this framework, AFEA Congress conducted a detailed environmental footprint assessment of the 34th Panhellenic Pulmonology Congress, held in December 2025 at the Divani Caravel Hotel in Athens, with support from GREEN EVOLUTION S.A., a specialised carbon accounting consultancy.

CONVIN S.A.

European Robotics Forum 2028 Awarded to Athens Following Successful Bid Coordinated by CONVIN The European robotics community will gather in Athens in March 2028, as the city has officially been selected to host the European Robotics Forum 2028 (ERF 2028), the most influential robotics and artificial intelligence event in Europe.

Organised annually by euRobotics, the European Robotics Forum is widely recognised as the leading platform bringing together researchers, industry leaders, technology innovators, policymakers and entrepreneurs shaping the future of robotics and AI. The forum attracts more than 1,000–1,500 participants each year and serves as a central meeting point for collaboration, knowledge exchange and strategic discussion on Europe’s technological future.

The successful Greek bid was led by Professors Sotiris Makris and George Michalos from the Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems and Automation (LMS), Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics, University of Patras, in collaboration with an extensive national academic and innovation network and with the professional congress organiser CONVIN S.A.

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Franck Grosset from Kuoni Tumlare Congress Receives 2025 EventsAir Innovation Award We are pleased to announce that Franck Grosset, Head of PCO and Innovation Hub in Kuoni Tumlare Congress has been recognised with the 2025 Innovation Award by EventsAir. The award forms part of a global programme that highlights outstanding contributions within the EventsAir community. It recognises individuals who have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the events industry through the effective use, development and advocacy of event technology.

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KUONI TUMLARE CONGRESS

This recognition reflects an approach to innovation grounded in practice: reducing complexity, supporting organisers and stakeholders and improving the way meetings and events are planned, governed and experienced. It is an approach that many clients and partners already recognise through their day-to-day collaboration.

GENEVA CONVENTION BUREAU

Geneva has been officially confirmed as the host city for the SLAS Europe Conference and Exhibition for three upcoming editions, 2028, 2030, and 2032, highlighting Switzerland’s growing role as a hub for innovation in life sciences and technology.

The Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) has officially selected Geneva, Switzerland, as the host city for three future editions of its flagship SLAS Europe Conference and Exhibition, to be held in 2028, 2030 and 2032. All three events will take place at Palexpo, Geneva’s largest exhibition and conference centre, ideally located near the international airport.

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Geneva selected to host SLAS Europe Conference in 2028, 2030, and 2032

This decision marks a major success for Geneva’s meetings industry and highlights the city’s growing appeal as a hub for innovation at the intersection of life sciences and technology. The Geneva Convention Bureau played a key role in supporting SLAS’s decision, coordinating efforts with local partners to bring the conference to Switzerland for the first time.

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

From Insight to Impact: Making Event Marketing AI-Ready for 2026

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

If you'd asked our marketing teams two years ago how they started their Monday mornings, the answer would have been predictable: pulling reports, manually comparing registration numbers and trying to spot trends in spreadsheets that were already out of date by the time they were compiled.

Today? Our teams open dashboards that tell us immediately which campaigns are converting, which audience segments are hesitating and where we need to adjust messaging before launch. It's not magic, it’s AI integration done thoughtfully, and in 2025, it became essential to how we work.

Why we leaned into AI (and what we learned) At Kenes Group, we manage over forty events annually across medical, scientific and professional sectors. That's thousands of sessions, tens of thousands of delegates and content in multiple languages across multiple time zones.

The volume alone makes AI necessary.

But we didn't start by trying to automate everything. We started by asking: where are our teams spending time on work that doesn't require human judgement? Where are we too slow to act on data that could change outcomes?

And where could we create more value for delegates if we had the capacity?

Turning sessions into stories that last One practical shift: AI-generated session summaries. We piloted this at three congresses in early 2025, and the response was immediate. Attendees loved getting key takeaways within hours of a session ending, especially those juggling parallel tracks or dealing with time zone challenges.

For our marketing team, it unlocked something bigger.

Those summaries became content engines. Newsletter features. Social proof for next year's promotion. Speaker highlights for recruitment. Content that used to disappear after an event now feeds campaigns year-round.

We're not replacing our content teams, but giving them material to shape, refine and strategically deploy instead of starting from scratch every time.

Audio content: Lower barrier, higher engagement We tested AI-powered podcast content across four events in 2025, and honestly, we were skeptical at first. Would people actually listen?

It turns out, yes. Pre-event episodes featuring faculty interviews drove early registrations. Daily recaps kept virtual and onsite audiences aligned. Post-event series brought in

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new listeners who became delegates the following year.

The real breakthrough wasn't the format, it was the speed in which it was achieved. Content that used to require studios, producers and weeks of lead time now happens in mere days. We can test ideas, learn what resonates with different communities and iterate without committing to massive budgets upfront.

Data we can actually use (while the event Is happening) Here's where AI made the biggest operational difference: real-time analytics during active campaigns.

We integrated our registration platform, website analytics, email tools and CRM into a single AI-powered view. Now, while registration is live, we can see which messages are converting researchers versus clinicians, when different regions tend to register and what website behaviour predicts actual sign-ups.

This changed how we make decisions. Instead of postmortem reports that tell us what we should have done, we adjust messaging, shift budget and test new approaches while there's still time to influence outcomes.

Personalisation without adding headcount Our delegate bases are diverse: first-time attendees and twenty-year veterans, researchers and industry professionals, different geographies with different expectations. Generic emails don't cut it anymore.

AI-enabled segmentation lets us send tailored journeys at scale. A young researcher registering for the first time gets different touchpoints than a returning faculty member.

Website content adapts based on what visitors engage with. Emails become more relevant, without filling up participants’ inboxes.

And critically, we're doing this without doubling our team size. The AI handles the segmentation logic; our marketers focus on refining the messaging strategy. With AI-driven segmentation and behavioural insights, we created personalised communication journeys for distinct attendee groups: • first-time delegates • returning participants • academic researchers • industry professionals • committee members For international medical congresses with diverse audience profiles, this level of precision has been a game changer.

The wins came when we focused on specific problems: How do we get session content out faster and personalise without burning out our teams? How do we spot registration trends earlier?

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What we got wrong (and what we'd do differently) Not everything worked right away. We over-automated some email sequences early on and lost the human touch – delegates noticed. We tried to implement too many tools at once and overwhelmed our teams. We learned that AI accelerates good strategy but exposes bad strategy faster.

What 2025 really taught us While technology was central, the most important lessons at Kenes were cultural and operational: • • • • •

Start with real problems, not shiny tools.

Integrate data early. Clean systems beat clever algorithms.

Train teams at all levels – not just early adopters.

Iterate continuously. AI implementation improves with use.

Keep humans at the centre. AI amplifies expertise, it doesn’t provide it.

Successful AI adoption has more to do with mindset than machinery. And what worked best at Kenes was a hybrid model: AI drafts quickly, humans refine strategically.

What 2026 looks like for Kenes Group We’re doubling down on integration. The more our systems talk to each other, the smarter our AI tools become.

We're investing in training so that our marketing teams understand what AI can and can't do, and how to ask better questions of the data.

And, most importantly, we're staying curious. The technology is evolving faster than any playbook can keep up with. Our advantage having teams who know how to apply them to real event marketing challenges.

The real question The technology exists. The platforms are accessible. The competitive advantage belongs to organisations willing to invest in the foundations: clean data, integrated systems, trained people and a willingness to experiment.

For the community, the question isn't whether AI will reshape event marketing, as it already has. The question is how intentionally we'll apply it, and how much we’re willing to learn as we go.

At Kenes Group, we're we are pushing the boundaries one event at a time.

Iva Popova Marketing Communications Manager, Kenes Group 57

| ON-POINT ARTICLE

Is It Really About the Tech?

The Human Revolution in Congress Management

ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

Rethinking the complexity challenge Technology has never been more powerful. At the same time, organisational complexity keeps increasing. Hybrid formats expand reach while multiplying logistical demands.

Governance requires transparency while navigating intricate stakeholder networks.

For PCOs and association executives, the question is clear: ‘How do we harness innovation to manage complexity without losing sight of human experience / what makes a congress meaningful for people?’ The answer lies not in technology itself, but in how we approach innovation.

From people to platforms: A smarter innovation framework Technology adoption often follows a predictable path: we identify a challenge, select a platform and adjust our workflows to fit the system.

Inside the Kuoni Tumlare Congress Innovation Hub In 2017, Kuoni Tumlare Congress established its Innovation Hub in response to changing client needs. Associations and PCOs were asking deeper questions: How do we maintain governance integrity in hybrid formats? How do we reduce administrative burden without sacrificing control? How do we create systems that evolve with us?

The Hub operates as a collaborative space where operations experts, developers and designers work together. Developers bring technical capability, operations professionals understand constraints and designers ensure usability. But it's the congress organiser’s perspective that ensures relevance.

The methodology begins with understanding, not assumptions. The team spends time with programme managers, scientific committees, registration teams and participants observing where bottlenecks occur and which processes create unnecessary friction.

Only then does development begin. The resulting tools are modular rather than monolithic, integrate with existing workflows and provide flexibility without sacrificing structure. Most importantly, they're designed to evolve as requirements change.

In the congress world, it’s rarely that simple.

On paper, it looks straightforward: collect abstracts, review them, build the programme. In reality, it means navigating committee hierarchies, balancing competing interests, ensuring blind review integrity, managing disclosures, coordinating across time zones. and maintaining transparency at every step.

That level of nuance doesn’t fit neatly into an off-the-shelf solution.

This is where human-centred innovation becomes essential. Instead of starting with the technology and asking people to adapt, we start with the people, the processes and the constraints that define how a congress actually works – and only then decide what technology truly supports it.

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Innovation in action: The story of K-Poster One of the solutions developed through the Innovation Hub is K-poster, Kuoni Tumlare Congress’ in-house e-poster tool, which can build interactive e-posters including videos, voice overs or dynamic sections and create even more engagement for the client onsite and online.

We successfully implemented the tool for the long-term client EAS Annual Meeting enabled the seamless handling of increasingly complex scientific content culminating in 800 e-posters in 2025.

As complexity grows, PCOs and associations don’t just need new systems, they need partners who understand how those systems fit their reality. Technology is a tool. The real goal is creating an environment where collaboration and informed decisions can truly happen.

Looking ahead Human-centred innovation hubs bridge the gap between generic technology solutions and specific organisational needs. They create space for experimentation while maintaining operational stability. They ensure that as tools become more sophisticated, they also remain more humane.

Technology gives us scale and efficiency. Human insight gives us relevance and empathy. Real innovation happens when both work together, always remembering that behind every system are people trying to do meaningful work.

That insight, more than any technological advancement, determines whether innovation succeeds or fails.

The question isn't whether organisations will adopt new technologies. The question is whether those tools truly support what congresses are meant to do: connect people, advance knowledge and create space for meaningful exchange.

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Awarded and accountable Recently our colleague Franck Grosset received the 2025 EventsAir Innovation Award for lasting contributions to the events industry through effective use and advocacy of event technology. This recognition underscores that the industry is beginning to value innovation that is experience-led and grounded in practice, not just technically sophisticated.

That's the promise of human-centred innovation. And increasingly, it's the future of professional congress organisation. And the future of Kuoni Tumlare Congress.

Dagmar Brozova Client Relations Manager, Kuoni Tumlare Congress

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

'We can’t save the world — but we can save food'. This February CPO HANSER SERVICE’s Berlin office spent the afternoon giving back.

As part of the large trade show FruitLogistica, CPO team members joined Berliner Tafel e.V., working alongside nearly 400 volunteers to rescue fresh produce from going to waste. The food was collected, sorted, and prepared for distribution to people in need across the city.

Congrès Inc. Operated the Panasonic Group Pavilion ‘The Land of NOMO’ at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan From 13 April to 13 October 2025, at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, Congrès Inc., commissioned by Panasonic Operational Excellence Co., Ltd., was responsible for staffing and operational management of the Panasonic Group Pavilion ‘The Land of NOMO.’ The concept of the pavilion was ‘Set your heart and mind free, and the world will open up.’

Visitors experienced an unknown perception surrounded by spatial sound and visuals while holding a crystal (device) and adventuring through a massive waterfall-like mist wall, allowing them to discover possibilities about themselves that they were previously unaware of.

Congrès welcomed approximately 470,000 visitors, including more than 100,000 children

Exterior of the Pavilion ‘The Land of NOMO’ and our staff Fast Facts • Event: Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan • Pavilion: Panasonic Group Pavilion ‘The Land of NOMO’ • Date: 13 April –13 October 2025 • Exhibitor: Panasonic Holdings Corporation • Staffing and Operational Management: Congrès Inc. • Venue: Yumeshima, Osaka Total Pavilion Visitors: Approximately 470,000

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Read More here.

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The fourth edition of the CONI Winter Trophy was held from 18–21 December 2025, in the Aosta Valley.

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ISSUE #122 EDITION 1 (2026)

| PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS

Strategic Partners and Affiliations

Destination Partners

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IAPCO Partners

Convention Centre Partners

Council & Annual Meeting Host Partners

Service Provider Partners

Media Partners

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International Association of Professional Congress Organisers

Raising Quality Standards in the Global Meetings Industry

The global brand of excellence for the meetings industry and a benchmark for quality within congress organisation

info@iapco.org | www.iapco.org |