In recognizing the importance of continuing professional development of less experienced professionals, the International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA) will deliver an education program. “ICCA International Meetings Foundation Seminar” will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) on Feb. 22-23, prior to the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) in Melbourne.
Formerly known as ICCA Forum for Young Professionals, the education program is an inaugural initiative by ICCA Australia and ICCA Asia Pacific Office. This joint effort aims to prepare newer professionals through innovative and growth oriented program that revolves around professional growth in the early stages of their career, as well as to equip delegates with a basic foundation in the global meetings industry.
“The seminar is an effort to offer members improved opportunities to learn and grow, aligned with our continuing education programs,” explained Anna Case, education officer, ICCA Australia. “Thus, we are revitalizing our education program. It is restructured and re-focused to meet the needs of meeting professionals with less than five years’ experience.”
Attendees will have opportunity for both professional and personal development – increasing knowledge of the business events industry whilst building contacts on both a national and international level. Over two days, delegates can network with potential future employers and receive sound advice along with essential career-building insights from some of the most established senior industry speakers.
A range of leading industry gurus will deliver immersive sessions about the meetings industry today, social media for business events, association trends and an overview of the different sectors in the industry. This year’s attendees can expect confirmed speakers Alex Yeomans (CIM), Anna Case, (Gold Coast Business Events), Delwin Kriel (Reed Travel Exhibitions), Elizabeth Mulquiney (AACB 2014 Award Winner), Jenny Graham (Cairns Convention Centre), Julia Swanson (Melbourne Convention Bureau), Martin Sirk (ICCA CEO), Michele Crowley (PCMA), Oscar Cerezales (MCI), Nicolena Oborn (Crown Hotels), Sarah Markey-Ham (ICMS), Sherrif Karamat (PCMA) and Steen Jacobson (Dubai Tourism).
The program format consists of case study, presentations and panel discussions. For the first time ever, this year’s seminar will feature a Closing Keynote Motivational Speaker, designed to send the meeting professionals back to the business inspired and ready to apply the knowledge and skill learnt at the event. Creator of 100things.com.au, Sebastian Terry will deliver this high-energy address. Known worldwide for pursuing an incredible list of “100 Things,” Sebastian has garnered rave reviews and popularity for fulfilling his goals.
ICCA CEO Martin Sirk will also be involved in a single, super-focused Hot Seat session that allows attendees to throw their biggest questions. Besides, he will join a panel of industry experts to discuss general trends in Business Events and how member organizations are evolving for their members in the face of these changes.
This seminar is a complimentary benefit to ICCA members but also opens to a limited number of non-members at a low cost of $150, inclusive of GST. Registration is open to those who have a full-time position related to the events business and should have no more than five years’ experience in the meetings industry.
