Special Events exceeds the number of places available. This commitment to academic studies is noteworthy and augurs well to the knowledge base of the practitioners that are now on the market. In addition, a chapter of the International Special Event Society (ISES) is also in formation, another critical development step that will ensure a code of conduct, ethical standards, networking opportunities and the sharing of best practices among industry professionals locally. In keeping with this momentum, in 2009 Unlimited Functions and Xceptional Events Limited hosted the first event management conference and trade show in the Caribbean. Eventology was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Trinidad, attracted over 150 participants and provided a forum for continuing education and exposure to global standards in the event management industry. The cast of speakers included internationally acclaimed event manager Preston Bailey, Colin Abraham and local award-winning mas maker and event designer Brian Mac Farlane, along with other local and foreign participants. Eventology was held again in 2010, amidst the effects of the economic downturn and changes in the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. Eventology provided a platform for entrepreneurs and small business operators to examine options for growth and development in an alternative sector of the tourism and hospitality industry. This was supported by both the Conventions Visitors Bureau of the Tourism Development Company and the Ministry of Trade and Development, who were the major sponsors. Eventology 2010 focused on providing tools that the practitioner could use to improve their events. Feature
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speaker King Dahl, executive director of event design at MGM Resorts Events in Las Vegas, brought a sense of passion and purpose to the opening key note address that left the audience enthused and wanting more. Other sessions, presented by a range of local and foreign experts, hit on a wide range of topics like protocol, managing your event team, social media, project management, corporate social responsibility, and food and beverage. The trade show featured sound and lighting companies, rentals companies, event management companies and education institutions, among others. Participant feedback was positive as attendees felt that the sessions provided hands-on information that could be used to improve their skills and business operations. Eventology’s highlight and closing event took place in Chaguaramas against the backdrop of the beautiful Caribbean sea, as designer Brian Mac Farlane launched his Carnival presentation for 2011, Humanity: the Circle of Life, a seamless event that tantalised the senses from beginning to end. Event management in Trinidad and Tobago has a bright future ahead. Eventology has proved that professionals are constantly looking for avenues to improve themselves and that partnerships are the way to long-term success. It has also shown that there is a need for more private and public sector support in the area of sponsorship and overall investment in the development of the industry at large. In the words of King Dahl, our future industry success will depend on passion, perseverance and professionalism. Eventology is produced by Derrick Lewis of Unlimited Functions and Lisa Ghany of Xceptional Events Limited. To become a member of ISES T and T go to www.ises.com.