Government Support / Subvention / Safety

#90 SEP 2019

Association Insights: Partnering with Governmental Entities 5 Things Every Association Leaders Needs To Know Ecm Summer School: Interview With Barbara Jamison LGBTQ in the Meeting Industry Government Support /

COVER PHOTO: Jerejak Island, Penang Subvention / Safety

The ICCA Asia Pacific Summit 2019 in Penang is the first summit by the ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter, the largest chapter in the ICCA community. It is a summit by the members, for the members, and will take place concurrently with Malaysia’s largest business events conference: BE @ Penang 2019.

GET READY TO • Learn winning strategies that have put Asia Pacific on the global business events radar.

• Tap into the collective wealth of knowledge and experience of fellow ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter members.

• Network with the leaders and influencers of business events in Asia Pacific at the joint ICCA Asia Pacific Summit 2019 and BE @ Penang 2019 social events.

• Meet Malaysia’s top outbound meetings agencies at the exclusive Asia Pacific Meetings Destination Marketplace.

Organised by Supported by 5 - 6 December 2019 Setia SPICE Convention Centre Penang, Malaysia

GET READY TO • Learn winning strategies that have put Asia Pacific on the global business events radar.

• Tap into the collective wealth of knowledge and experience of fellow ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter members.

• Network with the leaders and influencers of business events in Asia Pacific at the joint ICCA Asia Pacific Summit 2019 and BE @ Penang 2019 social events.

• Meet Malaysia’s top outbound meetings agencies at the exclusive Asia Pacific Meetings Destination Marketplace.

Organised by Supported by HQ #90 - ASSOCIATIONDESTINATION INSIGHTS

4 Setia SPICE night aerial view Lustre Beyond Brilliance ▲

Malaysia’s new multi-award-winning, purpose-built conference and exhibition centre is perfectly placed to handle international events of all sizes.

LIKE A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH MICE and business events: Setia SPICE, one gold winner) for Purpose-Built Category of the most impressive convention centres in Moscow, Russia, the WOW Award for The Penang International Sports Arena on the international conference scene. Most Iconic Development and inclusion (PISA) – dulled by years of neglect – was in the Malaysia Book of Records as a rec- reimagined as an original S P SETIA concept Whether you are looking to organise a ognition of commitment and dedication to become the iconic new landmark that large-scale congress, exhibition, an inti- to excellence and progress. would redefine Penang as the destination mate meeting, a grand gala dinner or a lav- for M.I.C.E and business tourism, as well ish party under the stars, the Subterranean SPICE’s centrepiece is the Grand as a heaven of heritage, culture and food. Penang International Convention and Ballroom. At 4,000m2 it’s Malaysia’s Exhibition Centre (SPICE) boasts a vast largest subterranean pillarless ballroom. Now cut and polished with pure clarity range of modern flexible spaces, all-inclu- It has a maximum capacity of 8,000 of vision, Setia SPICE will re-energize the sive services and an expert team to help people when arranged in theatre-style people with its brilliant glow and colours. you meticulously plan every aspect. seating. Alternately, it can accommo- Rousing confidence and international rec- date up to 400 banquet tables. There ognition, this shining catalyst will bring Located in the Bayan Lepas district, are also 13 function rooms, including value beyond wealth to Penang, raising close to the UNESCO-listed city of boardrooms to cater for smaller events. the bar and positively impacting everything George Town and five minutes’ drive Atop the convention centre is a six-acre around it. away from Penang International Airport, green rooftop, with a playground and Setia SPICE can host up to 8,000 del- gardens for special needs children. Setia Penang, an island state in Malaysia with an egates. SPICE is a multi-award winner, SPICE and the rooftop garden form part extraordinary cultural and historical wealth, with latest of accolades of 2019 FIABCI of a much larger complex from prop- has a new iconic landmark and beacon for World Prix d’Excellence Awards (world erty developer S P Setia Berhad which SEPTEMBER 2019 ▼ Setia SPICE roof garden ▼ Setia SPICE pillarless ballroom 5

consists of: SPICE Arena, a multi-purpose management to seafood-processing hall; SPICE Aquatic Centre that houses an technology. The event was held from Olympic-size swimming pool; the com- the 9th to the11th of September 2019. For further information, please contact: mercial retail outlet SPICE Canopy; a 453- room business class hotel operated by Setia SPICE also host the 27th Yeoh Kheng Ho Aainaa Zulkiflie Amari Group that is set to open in 2020. International Congress of the Obstetrical Tel: +604643 2525 Tel: +604643 2525 and Gynaecological Society of Malaysia, INTERNATIONAL EVENTS after it had been hosted in Kuala Lumpur for the past three years. The congress KHENGHO.YEOH AAINAA.Z Setia SPICE Convention Centre, in col- provides a great platform for partic- @SPSETIA.COM @SPSETIA.COM laboration with official partner Penang ipants to reflect upon and celebrate Convention and Exhibition Bureau accomplishments, renew friendships (PCEB), is hosting a multitude of events and extend networks in clinical practice in the following months. The inaugural and research. It happened on last 18-21 ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter Summit, the July 2019. fourth edition of the conference will be held at Setia SPICE Convention Centre this coming 5-6 December 2019, as “Penang is the must place announced during IMEX Frankfurt inter- to visit in Malaysia. It has national trade show this May. its own charm compared to Kuala Lumpur. Aside being Penang will also be hosting the seventh the destination of M.I.C.E and Asia-Pacific Urban Forum, the largest Business Tourism, Penang and most diverse multi-stakeholder offers haven of heritage, forum in the region. Running since 1993, culture and food. Furthermore, the Forum has gathered urban stake- for those looking something holders, engaged policymakers from local and national governments, finan- different to explore, Penang cial institutions, NGOs and the private is the best destination not sector - in order to debate and promote only for relaxation but also innovative solutions to the region’s most convenient for the family critical urban development challenges. vacations to leisure together and this makes it differently Penang has also won the bid to host The compared to Kuala Lumpur” World Seafood Congress in 2019. First held in 1969, it is considered a platform for the exchange of information, ideas, and methodologies for the sector, on everything from inspection and quality

▲ Yeoh Kheng Ho

WHEREECONOMICSCULTUREANDACADEMICSUNITE - 11 - 12 #90 EDITOR'S LETTER HQ ESSENTIAL - READ ONLINE ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS THINK ABOUT IT - 20 meetingmediagroup.com Interel - 14 WRITE TO US! GDS Index - 19 PCO INSIGHTS [email protected] - 24 meetingmedia ICCA - 26 Kenes headquartersmagazine IAPCO - 28 hqglobalmagazine EVENTS SEPTEMBER - 30

CONTENTS Mark Levin IBTM - 23 ECM - 32

EDUCATION THE ASSOCIATION Solvay - 27 MAGAZINE - BUILDING BRIDGES The ECM Summer IN THE MEETINGS School: discover INDUSTRY LGBTQ the bridge to a EDITOR IN CHIEF in the Meeting Marcel A.M. Vissers Partnering successful career in +32 (0)3 226 88 81 Industry [email protected] with the meetings and MAGAZINE MANAGER events industry Manuel Fernandes +351 91 000 79 73 Governmental [email protected] Entities: It’s MANAGING DIRECTOR Vivian Xu Not as Bad as +32 (0)489 550 485 [email protected] You Think 32 DEPUTY EDITOR Emanuela Barboriglio +32 (0)491 974 119 [email protected]

RESPONSIBLE EDITOR Mechelseplein 23/1 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

LATIN AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN Ana Mariño +593 0983020725 [email protected]

SOUTH KOREA Soohoon Oh +82 2 734 0786 [email protected]

FINANCE & ACCOUNTING Farhana Khan T. +32 (0)3 226 88 81 [email protected]

MEETING MEDIA GROUP 4 avenue des Prisonniers Politiques 1150 Brussels (Belgium) T. +32 (0)2 761 70 50 F. +32 (0)2 761 70 51

SUBSCRIPTIONS 65€ in Belgium 75€ in the EU 95€ in the rest of the world 30 12

INTERNATIONAL ACCREDITATIONS DESTINATIONS SPICE - 4 Calgary - 36 Malta - 38 4

Conventions Malta - your one stop shop for all you need to know about Calgary’s association subventions and hosting Energy Ignites your world class event

Recipes for improving 38 events’ food sustainability 19

HQ #90 - EDITOR'S LETTER SEPTEMBER 2019

11 How Inclusive is our Industry With the LGBT+ Community?

The idea to write about the LGBT+ community (an initialism that stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) first came to my mind thanks to my colleague Kerstin Wünsch at TW Magazine. Kerstin decided to give women in the meetings industry a clear platform. She obviously succeeded in her endeavour because there were several women with a powerful voice on stage at IMEX Frankfurt this year.

Subsequently, I started wondering if our industry was in fact open to all. We are human beings, who are all different but equal in rights. Nobody should be dominant and, yet, many women still feel deprived. This should not be the case in an industry that focuses on human values.

The LGBT+ community also deserves more space and more allies than it currently has. Our society should be ready to change for the better. One reason is that sexual orientation vary in nature among all beings and, on a purely sci- entific level, this is perfectly normal. The other, most important, reason is that we should all be able to choose who we like and love.

The question remains how we deal with diversity? Are we inclusive as we should be?

For many decades, being left-handed was seen as evil. In many countries, LGBT+ people are regarded as criminals and it might take time before this tendency will change. Cultural prejudices play a major role in this. I can’t imagine the LGBT+ community being completely ignored in the meetings industry, however LGBT+ conferences are not welcome in every country.

So I’m very pleased that MPI will have an open discussion with representatives of the LGBT+ community who are professional organisers, during IMEX America. My human binoculars are already zeroing in on the future. To be continued.

MARCEL A.M. VISSERS EDITOR IN CHIEF

REPLY LETTER

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READ MY BLOG 1B.YT/E38TK HQ #90 - HQ ESSENTIAL

12 LGBTQ in the Meeting Industry

This year marks a special anniversary for the LGBTQ community. For those not familiar with the acronym, LGBTQ stands for people who do not identify as heterosexual or cis-gender, thus encompassing people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transexual, queer, intersexual but also everyone who feels they are somewhere on the spectrum of sexuality and gender, including people who question their position thereon. Over the last 50 years, a long road has been paved up until today - and yeta lot of work has to be done.

n June 24th 1969, the police could also entail the removal of testicles invaded the Stonewall Inn in or even a lobotomy. Transgenders in the O Christopher Street, New York US would have to wait until 2012 before City, USA. The Stonewall Inn, which they were no longer seen as people with opened its doors in 1967, was the first a mental disorder. A huge step wasmade and at the time only gay bar where danc- elsewhere, when in 2001 the Netherlands ing was allowed. It was a place for gay was the first country to accept same-sex people to come together and feel safe to marriage and luckily many countries have be themselves. We must not forget that followed since. in those days it was illegal for two people of the same sex to hold hands or kiss in So yes, we have come a long way. But public. In other words, walking around this all started thanks to the brave people as a gay couple could get you arrested. who decided to finally fight back when Newspapers would publish pictures of the police held their razzia on that dark gay men or lesbians with their names so day in June. When the police invaded the the police could find them and throw bar, some 200 people who were present them in jail. that night were kicked out, which had happened before. Usually raids like these Furthermore, as a declared gay person ended with a few of the staff members you were not allowed to serve in the US being arrested and the clients being put army until 1975, just like you were not on the street, after which everyone able to have any function in a govern- would return home. But this time it was mental organisation. Obviously, a lot different. A rage which had been building of gay people decided to stay in the up for years all of a sudden came to an closet or get married to somebody of outburst. The clients were done being the opposite sex just to keep up appear- treated that way and they decided to ances. Only in 1973 did the American stay and retaliate. What started off as a Psychiatric Association decide to con- group of 200 people soon grew out to sider homosexuality no longer a mental be a mass of 2000 people, who all came disease. Before that, gay people were together from the streets of The Village. forced to follow therapy to get “cured”, which consisted of shock therapy, but Gays, lesbians and especially drag queens Picture by Chickenonline Picture by ▲ SEPTEMBER 2019

13 13

▲ Pieter Gyssels Photo by Yentl Gijbels

- it was at that time also illegal to wear are travelling all over to participate and express their gender in the workspace clothes from the opposite sex - started celebrate their freedom to express and beyond. insulting the police. People started to themselves. throw bottles and stones, as well as set- I personally think this is so valuable and I ting fire to trash cans. The police used Where in the beginning it was hard for hope that every organisation wants their water cannons to divide the mass, but the two men or women to request a dou- employees to feel good not only in the protesters were unstoppable. For once and ble bed in a hotel, gay travel has now company they work for, but in their lives for all, it had to be clear that the LGBTQ become a business on its own, generat- in general. Like I said before, we have come community had its right to exist and live ing about 85 billion dollars a year. Tourism a long way already, but unfortunately being in broad daylight, just as much as their has greatly benefitted from this and the gay is still considered a crime in many heterosexual friends. At the end of the Meeting Industry is finally catching up. countries resulting in life time sentences riot, which was later coined the Stonewall With the creation of the LGBT Meeting or even the death penalty. I hope that we, Uprising, luckily nobody got killed and only Professionals Association in 2016, LGBTQ as a Meeting Industry, can set an exam- 13 people got arrested. people now have an association commit- ple in accepting people for who they are, ted to the professional advancement of regardless of how they define on the broad The mass, which had become a gather- LGBT meeting professionals and diver- spectrum of gender and sexuality. In some ing of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans- sity and inclusivity throughout their pro- way, it is sad that we need a special cele- gender people representing black, latino fession. LGBT MPA exhibited for the first bration like Gay Pride or in our case a spe- and white communities from all walks of time at IMEX 2017 and made a repeat cific association for our LGBT friends, but life, was overcome by a feeling of victory appearance at the 2018 show. we can only hope that in the near future and euphoria. That night had become we will all work together and celebrate life the start of a movement, which up until Now this year MPI had an open discus- regardless of our origin, skin color, sex, reli- today is celebrated as Gay Pride. What sion with LGBT professional organizers gious views, gender or sexual orientation. first started out as a march of thou- during IMEX America 2019. On Thursday I am excited to see what the future holds. sands has now become a celebration September 12 they organised a workshop This is not an end. It’s only the beginning. of millions worldwide. Pride parades are focussed on creating environments being held all over the world and people of acceptance, so people can freely Pieter Gyssels HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

14 SEPTEMBER 2019

5 Things Every Association Leaders Needs to Know About the New Direction of the European Institutions

BY RICHARD STEEL, SENIOR ASSOCIATE, INTEREL

fter a fascinating electoral cycle, Associations need to adjust the Liberals (108), rebranded the Renew it has become clear that the out- to the new EU balance of Europe group, whose ranks were swelled A come of the European elections 1 power to advance their policy by the large French delegation of Macron will require associations to adjust the way priorities MEPs. The other big winners were the they engage with the European institu- Greens (74), with big gains in Germany tions. With new leadership comes a new The first stage of the EU institutional and France, and many of their priorities set of challenges and opportunities for shake-up is over but we still have a long taken up in the future Commission’s European membership organisations. way to go before all the changes in work programme. Associations will need to Associations will need to adapt the way stakeholders, structures and priorities get used to the new reality of working with they advance their interests and engage are settled and the EU machinery gets all four political groups, where majorities with policymakers in this new political back to work. Act One saw these most continually fluctuate and reaching compro- environment. anticipated of European elections throw mises will prove hard. up some surprises. For the first time In this article, Richard Steel, Head of the two mainstream political groups, Engaging with the populists Interel’s Parliamentary Intelligence Unit, the centre-right EPP (182 MEPs) and carries reputational risks shares 5 key insights that your associa- Socialists (154) fell below a combined 2 tion needs to know when preparing for 50%. This has made any stable, working Many feared these elections would see the exciting year ahead. majority dependent on the support of the right-wing populists join together to Picture by RactapopulousPicture by ▲ HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

form a disruptive minority. While they Be aware of the new did indeed top the polls in Italy, France Commission ‘politics’ and the UK, they have failed to form a 4 cohesive force and are still spread across Act Three is currently under- several political groups. Associations will way as the new Commission President need to work out which of these nationalist tries to build a team around her, that is parties they can work with, at both the EU capable of fulfilling the promises made and member state level, which may require in her political guidelines. Eighteen national members taking on a more active Member States have already nominated role. their candidates, with the three most senior Vice-Presidents already decided. Position your policy Socialist lead candidate for the elec- requests to meet the new tions, Frans Timmermans, will remain 3 political priorities 1st Vice-President and work alongside the Liberal leading candidate, and Act Two saw the institutional struggle current Competition Commissioner, between EU leaders and MEPs over who Margrethe Vestager. The EU’s Foreign would choose the next President of the Minister will be the Spanish socialist, European Commission. The European Josep Borrell, whose nomination was Parliament was keen to promote one of part of the package of top jobs shared the leading candidates of the three biggest out between the three main polit- groups, but failed to rally behind a single ical groups. This deal saw the liberal candidate. This left the door open for EU Belgian Prime Minister, Charles Michel, heads of State to impose their own can- chosen to be the next President of didate, Ursula von der Leyen, the German the European Council, the body that Defence Minister and close ally of Angela brings together the 28 prime ministers. Merkel. She was finally elected by MEPs with The current head of the International the narrowest of margins after appealing to Monetary Fund, Christine Lagarde, progressive forces on the left thanks to a was chosen to be the new President very ambitious work programme centred of the European Central Bank. While around a European Green Deal. This pro- the deal succeeded in reaching a polit- gramme will be fleshed out in the coming ical and gender balance, it has been months and gives us the first indication of criticised for not finding room for any the policy direction of the new Commission. leader from Central or Eastern Europe. Associations should already be looking at how Associations will need to be sensitive to to position their own priorities to match these the risk of perceived divisions between guidelines. Forming cross-sector alliances, East and West. The dispute over dual drafting joint position papers and creating quality food, for example, was based common platforms will all help. For example, on the perception that East Europeans over 100 organisations in the health sector were being treated as second-class joined together to push for a Vice President citizens. for Health. SEPTEMBER 2019

Commission hearings offer subject area before being grilled by MEPs golden opportunity to in a tough series of hearings in October. 5 promote policy asks These hearings provide Associations a golden opportunity to ensure their pri- Ursula von der Leyen will be the ority area gets raised and they should Commission’s first female President and already be looking tor sympathetic MEPs she has made the objective of a gen- to put a question. The Commission ser- der-neutral team of Commissioners a vices are already busy preparing back- central plank of her campaign. However, ground notes and future options on all she is hampered by the fact the nomina- their dossiers and this is a good time to tions are made by the individual member talk to Commission officials about the states and to date we have 11 men and content of those briefings. If all goes only 7 women put forward. It is in her according to plan the new Commission power to allocate the portfolios to each should be approved by MEPs in late nominee, while countries are already lob- October and take office from the 1st bying hard for the subject area in their of November. However, these hearings own national interest. The job title for have proven politically-charged in the each Commissioner should be decided past and delays in the process could put by late summer and the nominees then off the 2020 work programme until the have one month to prepare on their new end of the year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION INTERELGROUP.COM

Interel is the world’s largest independent global public affairs and association management consultancy. Within the Interel Group, Interel Association Management boasts over 20 years’ experience in serving international and European associations. We offer full- service management, event and communication support, strategic advice, project support, EU representation and consulting services to trade associations, professional societies and other not-for-profit entities in Europe and worldwide. In June 2019, we have been successfully awarded re-accreditation by the AMC Institute, the global standard for excellence in association management. Picture by Monicore Picture by ▲

HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS SEPTEMBER 2019

19 Recipes for Improving Events’ Food Sustainability

Where does our beef come from? Is the events industry changing?

In late spring of this year, we witnessed The key point is not that everyone is the best-performing initial public offer- becoming vegan. It’s rather that there is ing (IPO) by a US company in almost a huge boom in people eating a healthy two decades. Unexpected was that this flexitarian diet. In general, the events company did not originate from the tech sector has been slow to react, with many industry, but instead the food sector. attendees complaining about the lack of The company in question, Beyond Meat choice and quality for those who prefer Inc., proposes that there is a better way a more plant-based diet. to feed the planet. Their products aim to address four growing issues linked to live- The ingredients for success: Noah Joubert is a sustainability associate of stock production: human health, climate the Global Destinations Sustainability Index. change, constraints on natural resources • Local: Request that your catering suppli- The mission of the GDS-Index is to engage, and animal welfare. Their story is just part ers provide you with menus that include inspire and enable destinations to become of a massive global trend towards eating as many local ingredients as possible more sustainable places to visit, meet more plant-based food and less meat. and thrive in. This IPO raises the questions: are we in • Organic: Work with the catering team the events industry keeping up with this to integrate as much organic food as shift in eating habits? Do our congresses possible. The saving that comes with and incentives allow people to eat like reducing meat can cover the cost of they do at home? this quality increase

As the Amazon rainforest continues to • Veggies galore: Ensure that at least be devastated by fires, livestock and 60% of the food offering is veggie MORE INFORMATION GDS-INDEX.COM cattle farmers are receiving the blame. based, with at least 30% vegan This should come as no surprise, as 80% of deforested areas in the Amazon have • Ensure quality: Choose a venue/sup- be a pathway to job creation, increasing been covered in pastures (World Forestry plier that knows how to cook good social inclusiveness, whilst helping to Congress). To top it all off, 14.5% of our vegetarian food and double-check by reduce environmental pressures. Since global greenhouse gas emissions originate organising a menu tasting 2018, 79% of our destinations have had from livestock and meat production (FAO, a sustainable food programme and 74% 2018). This calls for the adoption of more Destination leaders in the GDS-Index have a food waste programme in place. sustainable food practices. And this shift have identified that a local and healthy is happening! approach to gastronomy can be turned So, what will you do to promote a more sus- into a competitive advantage. It can also tainable food culture at your next event? During the last decade, the number of people identifying as vegans has increased by 350% in the UK and by 400% in Portugal. In three years, the US vegan market grew by 600% and the Chinese market by 15%. Fairr’s latest report, Plant- Based Profits, explains that annual global sales of plant-based meat alternatives have grown on average 8% per year since 2010. Currently, growth is about twice the rate of processed meat, with annual sales of about $2 billion and expected to reach $5.2 billion by 2020. In the longer term, it could make up a third of the market by 2050. Michael Luke Picture by ▲ HQ #90 - THINK ABOUT IT

20 Membership Engagement Who Represents People Best?

Jeffer London speaks with Ignasi Guardans about how associations shape society and culture. Versed in law, politics and media, Ignasi has lead collaboration for film funding and festivals as well as the public affairs of Eurovision and advisory services at K&L Gates. He was previously elected to Spanish and European Parliament. Today, Guardans is CEO of the association CUMEDIAE that advises creative industries on EU funding, communication and project management. Jeffer London is a facilitator at the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL®), a top-ranked global provider of executive education that develops better leaders through its exclusive focus on leadership education and research.

he culture of society is in the hands as well as an association can. Associations’ Ignasi: It’s a matter of purpose. of people. Politicians and govern- clear focus and non-profit status create Associations need to be clear and suc- T ments may want to be the voice of trust and engender involvement. A govern- cinct about their purpose and the goals people, but it is difficult for large institu- ment may want inclusion, interaction and need to be known to all parties. It should tions to be fully inclusive and engaging. engagement, but people are much more not come as a surprise that your asso- Associations are the experts in repre- likely to offer their goodwill to an associa- ciation is behind any of your projects: if senting people’s interests and they can tion they feel connected to. Associations you have been explicit about your vision, be the ideal partners for governmental play a critical role in the overall system, purpose and goals, your project portfo- bodies who want to connect with the connecting the interests of people with lio should be a natural consequence. We diverse voices of citizens. While govern- the mechanics of government. take on projects that fulfil our purpose, ments and associations have very differ- fulfil our raison d’être and justify our ent ways of working, they are gears in the Jeffer: What’s the secret to get people existence. same wider system ensuring individual’s on board? views are represented by the institutions. Jeffer: How is collaboration different in Governments need associations in order Ignasi: People get together to do some- the cultural sphere? to interact with people in a meaningful thing. When the players involved realise manner, as much as associations need to that your association can make it happen, Ignasi: Most cultural programmes are operate in a way that suits both mem- they jump on board. There is no point to run by associations. Individual artists bers and governmental partners. just talk – whether the team is fighting are vulnerable, so associations offer for an idea, creating an event or produc- a protected space for them to cre- Jeffer London: Why does the associa- ing a film. If you show that you are com- ate. Collaborating within cultural pro- tion – government relationship matter? mitted to make the concept become a grammes is not that different than man- reality, everyone gets motivated. aging in the private sector: it works best Ignasi Guardans: It’s about democracy when there is rigour for goal-setting, and transparency. Governments need to Jeffer: How do you choose which pro- processes, finances and management. reach out to citizens, but they can’t do that jects you should take on? For instance, it’s true that the NGO SEPTEMBER 2019

world is idealistic by nature and that a wise decision, we need to hear them players include artists, but the team ral- out and understand the way each one “Associations lies together for a cause that can only fits together in a system. So many of our be done together. Associations are able issues are like this, health, privacy, secu- are the experts to accomplish things like the defence rity… As individuals and associations, we of rights, the training of musicians, the need to solicit views, listen, state opin- in representing running of festivals. All these initiatives ions and have a dialogue that enriches enrich our cultural life as citizens and are our understanding. people’s best done by associations.. Jeffer:Any advice for associations’ lead- interests.” Jeffer: How is your twitter voice @ ers seeking engagement? iguardans different from you in person? Ignasi: Know your purpose and focus Ignasi: Work is about doing, while on on it. Play your role. Don’t try to do twitter I say what I think. Of course, everything for everybody. Look for inspi- verba volant [spoken words fly away, ration in others (big progress in associa- written words remain] so, you need to tions is usually driven by a few leaders), be careful not to damage others or acci- see how they make things happen and dently disseminate a lie. I simply give my then do what you think is best for your honest views as a person, a citizen, an association’s purpose. arts’ lover. As a habit, I tweet my opinion after experiencing an event or a film. Jeffer: Words to live by?

Jeffer: Why are inclusion, participation Ignasi: Trust. Respect. Honesty. and engagement so important now? Thank you Ignasi Guardans, for taking time Ignasi: How we live together is at the to talk about purpose and engagement. center of society. It is how a democracy You very well may find HQ readers reach- works. Life is far too important to leave ing out for more advice. For insights into it in the hands of politicians – we need the facilitation of engagement, see Jeffer’s people to be involved and we need to blog about stimulating conversation at be involved ourselves. Active partici- jeffer-london.com. pation gives counter-balance, without diverse voices we cannot understand things fully. The issues we face today are increasingly complex and they require us to hear multiple views before taking a decision.

I remember preparing to vote in parliament on issues like agricultural policy. There were so many contradictory interests, each with a view that was right: you would hear farmers, pesticide producers, ecologists, health workers, consumer MORE INFORMATION Picture by Rawpixel Picture by

groups – they all had valid points. To take CCL.ORG ▲ HQ #90 - THINK ABOUT IT

22 ABOUT THE AUTHOR Change Mindset - Anna Koj is a Managing Partner of Akronos Consulting – a Case for a boutique consultancy in Brussels, VP Partnerships at Professional Embracing Women International Brussels (PWI Brussels), and recruitment and leadership Consultant at Your Whole Self EARS – European Affairs Recruitment Specialists.

She helps individual clients to thrive by aligning their personal and professional vision and organisations to identify the best talent. She specialises in strategic communications, institutional relations and organisational leadership.

FOR MORE INFO AKRONOS-CONSULTING.COM

Who am I?

Have you ever asked yourself this ques- These days, external changes happen at different roles you play in life, explore tion? Most of us don’t, at least not such a speed that it often feels like con- and test new ideas, push yourself out beyond our teenage years, and definitely stantly driving with the turbo to simply of your comfort zone. Secondly, try to not on a regular basis. As things change not be left behind. But the truth is that expand your emotional vocabulary, around us, we change with them. It the only way we can fully embrace be mindful about how different experi- seems only natural: we develop new change is by developing a healthy ences, situations and people make you friendships, change jobs, start families, change mindset. And, to do that, we feel. Thirdly, rediscover the value of travel, discover new passions. We live in need to be able to see ourselves for who curiosity to become a transformational an ecosystem, in which we play many we are in our whole selves. thinker. Keep an open mind, exercise different roles. Sometimes they comple- your creativity and focus on where you ment each other, sometimes they clash, It’s not an easy task and it takes time and want to get before building the steps and at times they evolve with us. a lot of inward-focused work. A good to get there. way to start off is to write down your Yet, unless shaken by usually very sad own personal vision. Three concrete Your personal vision will be your guide to and unexpected events, rarely do we steps can help you set the ground to consciously manoeuvre through various stop to truly reflect on how we’ve do that. Firstly, identify your self-bi- personal and professional changes, while changed and who we have become. ases (we all have them), analyse the staying in the driver’s seat. HQ #90 - EVENT SEPTEMBER 2019

23 IBTM World Reveals the First Details IBTMWORLD.COM of 2019 Association Programme

IBTM World has announced the first details of its 2019 Association Programme, which will take place on the afternoon of 19 November, the first day of IBTM World, in Barcelona. Over 15,000 industry professionals, including 300 international Association meetings planners will attend the leading annual event for the global MICE industry.

reated in partnership with the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Registrations for this year’s Hosted Buyer Association of Association Executives and Barcelona Convention Bureau (BCB). It programme are now open. IBTM’s leading C (AAE), the programme includes eight is an investment and mentoring programme Hosted Buyer programme benefits asso- topical sessions addressing some of the that will see young entrepreneurs with an ciation event organisers by providing them key challenges faced by the organisers. idea, a product or a service relevant to the with a personalised diary of pre-planned, The afternoon concludes with Associations events industry participate in an intensive one-to-one business meetings, as well as by Connect, a peer-to-peer networking event, programme of workshops, webinars and matching them with exhibitors with whom together with ICCA. one-to-one sessions. they are highly likely to do business.

Themes for the afternoon include: driving Mentees will then present their ideas in front As always, there will be an incredibly broad delegate attendance, raising sponsor and of a panel of investors and the Reed Global spread of exhibitors. This year, over 2,800 exhibitor revenue, sustainability for events Innovation team on the IBTM Accelerate exhibiting companies representing over 150 and cost control. The programme includes stage, also a new feature area for 2019, countries are expected to attend, ranging case studies, speeches and panel sessions located at the heart of the event. Designed from destinations and conference centres from some of the leading organisations in to attract and nurture entrepreneurial talent, to technology companies and suppliers, with the association sector. IBTM Accelerate will incorporate exhibitors over 70,000 pre-scheduled meetings set to and education sessions that will give dele- take place. Speakers include: Senthil Gopinath, CEO of gates the opportunity to learn from other ICCA, who will lead a session on ‘preserving successful MICE entrepreneurs and share IBTM World 2019 will take place from the 19th the world through sustainable meetings’; ideas with their peers. to the 21st of November 2019 at Fira Gran Gordon Glenister, global head of Influencer Via Barcelona. For more information and to Marketing, The Branded Content Marketing As part IBTM World’s Knowledge register for the event, visit ibtmworld.com. Association, who will cover ‘how influencers Programme, John Volanthen, the world-re- marketing can help build delegate awareness cord holding British cave diver who played For all media enquiries, additional comment and uptake of your event’; and Greg Tracz, a major role in the astonishing 2018 Tham and request for interview please contact CEO of Diabetes Africa, who will run a ses- Luang Thailand cave rescue, will deliver a Becca Krug, Nancy Cremore, Evie Kennedy sion on ‘developing sponsorship revenue keynote session. John’s talk will focus on or Andra Miclaus at davies tanner: streams for long-term benefit’. managing risk and keeping calm in a crisis, Tel: +44 (0)1892 619100 using gripping anecdotes from the hazardous Commenting on the Association Programme, rescue mission to illustrate his thoughts. [email protected] David Thompson, IBTM World Event director, said: “We’re excited about this year’s Association Programme. Working with AAE, we’ve put together a comprehensive content schedule, full of sessions that have a genu- ine practical application for our delegates. The programme is a great opportunity for Association buyers to enhance their time with us in Barcelona thanks to targeted learning opportunities that complement the wider event schedule.”

Also new this year is Event Business Accelerator, created in partnership with HQ #90 - PCO INSIGHTS

24 Raising Awareness Up Again After Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of death around the world. But that’s just part of the story why over 10 years ago the World Stroke Organization (WSO) designated October 29th as a stroke awareness day.

orld Stroke Day supports can make facing stroke together. Stories worldstsrokecampaign.org WSO’s mission to deliver lives of challenge and triumph were shared W free from stroke by informing online alongside videos and patient • 194 World Stroke Day events were reg- and educating the public about the dis- information brochures with advice on istered, spanning across 61 countries ease, how to prevent it, how to spot recovery. Events took place in commu- it and how to live the best possible life nities, hospitals, universities and work- The Kenes Associations team also pro- after a stroke. places around the world. The campaign vides ongoing support with the WSO resulted in: advocacy agenda ensuring that stroke The Kenes Associations team man- is given the visibility and priority com- aged the campaign on behalf of WSO, • Almost 170 million people were reached mensurate with the global impact of supporting the development of cam- around the world the disease. This includes coordinating paign strategies and the delivery of member input to United Nations global annual campaigning guides, toolkits and • #UpAgainAfterStroke and and regional consultations and engag- resources to inspire and support mem- #WorldStrokeDay hashtags went up ing with partners in the NCD Alliance. bers to join a global action on stroke by 84,223% (when compared to usage In September 2018, WSO participated in awareness. on Oct 1) a global week of action to raise awareness on non-communicable diseases Among over 80 million people who had • The press release was picked up by over in advance of the Third UN High-Level a stroke worldwide, 50 million stroke sur- 188 international outlets creating 84 Meeting on NCDs on September 27th, vivors live with some form of permanent million opportunities to view. Local and 2018. This included the launch of a global disability. In 2018, the campaign focus national press stories about World Stroke policy paper on stroke and NCDs. was to show that with the right treat- Day, stroke prevention and stroke aware- ment and support, employing patience ness were published. Inquiries came from The High-Level Meeting was an impor- and dedication, it is possible to get all over the world – from the Philippines tant rallying point to raise the profile of #UpAgainAfterStroke. and Indonesia to Bosnia and Herzegovina stroke within the debate on NCDs and to focus the attention of the US gov- On October 29th last year, the world • 11,000 “Up Again” campaign tool- ernment on specific actions to reduce came together to show the difference it kits were downloaded from premature mortality from stroke.

ABOUT KENES GROUP For more information, contact: Magdalina Atanassova For over fifty years, Kenes Group has been creating Marcom & Brand Manager success stories with associations around the world. Kenes Group We’re experts in helping associations reach their true Tel. +359 885 667 804 potential by strategically building awareness, loyalty and satisfaction among current and potential members, as well as stakeholders. We harness [email protected] the power of community, strengthening your association’s brand through unforgettable experiences - fostering change, inspiring members, educating, and improving your association’s KENES.COM business performance.

HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

26 ICCA Appoints New Director Middle East

After an intensive recruitment period which attracted major industry interest, the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has appointed Anju Gomes as their new Director Middle East to take the helm of the global meetings industry trade association’s fastest-growing region. Anju Gomes is an accomplished Events Strategist and Director of Business Development with over two decades of experience in the international events sector in the Middle East.

nju Gomes has been based in “ICCA Members in our Middle East Chapter Dubai, United Arab Emirates since are an incredibly active and knowledgea- A 1996 and has spent a significant ble community, with a passionate drive to portion of her career working in senior develop their destinations further through positions across both the association and the expertise and skills and knowledge corporate meeting industries, specialis- exchange opportunities offered by interna- ing in local and international stakeholder tional association meetings. They will most relations, sales and service optimisation, certainly find the support they need to con- and event management. tinue to do this in Anju as ICCA’s Director Anju Gomes ▲ Middle East.” The former MENA Head of Events, Finance and Administration for the Anju Gomes will be based at ICCA’s Middle International Association of Public East Office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Transport (UITP), Gomes is a skilled com- where the association is registered with permanent representation in the region has municator and strategist with in-depth the Dubai Association Centre. Gomes rep- been marked by rapid growth in both ICCA knowledge of regional market conditions resented the region at the fourth ICCA engagement and the local market. The and local business culture. Middle East International Meetings Forum region reached the 50-member milestone from 18-19 September 2019 in Abu Dhabi, in 2017 and was the fastest-growing region Senthil Gopinath, ICCA Chief Executive United Arab Emirates and will be attend- between 2006 and 2016, with the number Officer, said of Anju’s appointment: “Anju ing the 58th ICCA Congress from 27-30 of meetings increasing from 100 to 255 in Gomes’ extensive association manage- October 2019 in Houston, U.S.A. a decade. According to ICCA Statistics, this ment experience, strong professional his- growth of over 250% was the largest for any tory of association development work in Gomes said: “I feel extremely fortunate region in the world during this period. the Middle East, and strategic knowledge to be engaged with ICCA, the global com- of what is important to stakeholders in munity and knowledge hub for the inter- ICCA CONGRESS HEADS TO NORTH AMERICA AFTER MIDDLE EAST the region makes her the ideal person to national association meetings industry. continue the growth and development of I believe there is great scope to increase Following the successful 57th ICCA our Middle East Office. association meetings in the region and Congress in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, enhance ROI for members and their trade the 58th ICCA Congress is scheduled shows and business events. I am keen to to be the biggest ICCA Congress ever contribute to the growth and development held in North America, with already over of the ICCA Middle East Chapter.” 800 participants registered to attend as of late September. Gomes will continue the incredibly successful work of ICCA’s Middle East Regional Office, which was established in 2012 in response to the growing importance of the international association meetings industry to regional development strategies. Contact: Mathijs Vleeming, Director Marketing

As a strong testament to the skyrocketing [email protected] value and influence of the industry in the Senthil Gopinath

▲ Middle East, the period since ICCA set up ICCAWORLD.ORG HQ #90 - EDUCATION SEPTEMBER 2019

27 Master the Key Management Techniques SOLVAY.EDU in an International Association Like a Pro!

e at Solvay Brussels School of action-oriented and with a special management areas with a special focus Economics and Management focus on the specific leadership and on the association executives’ needs. W are very aware of the management challenges associations importance to possess and develop might be facing today. Since its first The objective of the 17-day executive management and leadership skills. intake in 2015, the Executive Master in master course is to enhance the lead- Five years ago, we combined our International Association Management ership, strategic planning and manage- efforts with the European Society of has trained more than 80 association ment skills of Europe’s top association Association Executives (ESAE), the professionals. professionals and to highlight the best Union of International Associations practices across the association sector. (UIA), the Federation of European Solvay Executive Master in International It is taught by Solvay academics and fea- and International Associations (FAIB) Association Management resumes in tures regular interventions from promi- and visit.brussels to build a consistent January next year, a unique platform nent association executives sharing their executive master that is pragmatic, for learning the fundamental skills in key insights and expertise.

Discounts Start date Costs -10 % 23 Duration 7.950€ and January (+ 21% VAT) -15 % 17 respectively for the 2nd and 3rd registration days from the same association from January to June 2020 spread in 2 to 3-day full-day -10 % modules Applications from members of one of the supporting partners (FAIB, UIA and ESAE) HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

28 A New Day in Brussels: How Associations Will Get Ahead of the Curve While Managing Risks and Seizing Opportunities

Capital of the European Union and home to more than 2,250 associations, Brussels confirms year-on-year its position as a global association hub. The reason leans on the increasing need for business and civil society to keep close ties with the EU policymakers, who set the rules governing access to a single market of more than 500 million consumers.

Authors: Ana Mingo, Senior Account Manager, and Victor Belaud, Consultant, LOGOS Public Affairs, MCI Group

s expected, 2019 is a pivotal year German Christian Democrat Usrula for a new term, none of the previous EU for the EU, which is experiencing Von Der Leyen is set to take over the top officials have been confirmed in their A a complete reshuffle of its politi- Presidency of the European Commission, office and the proposed top-job package cal leadership. The term of the Juncker French IMF Secretary General Christine puts forward a set of names quite unex- Commission is ending in the autumn, Lagarde is proposed to lead the ECB, pected and new to the EU bubble. the EU elections on May 2019 brought Belgian Liberal ex-PM will have the tricky to office 751 (soon to be 705 after task of heading the European Council 2. A new balance of power Brexit) new Members of the European and Italian MEP-veteran David Sassoli has Parliament and single Heads of State been elected President of the European This year put an end to the traditional undertook an arduous and complicated Parliament. ‘grand coalition’ between the European horse-trading process to fill the top EU Christian Democrats (EPP) and the political positions. These names may not ring a bell to all European Socialists (S&D), who failed EU citizens. However, we can underline for the first time since 1979 to reach three significant changes brought by a majority together. Primarily, they this new EU leadership that will affect had to face strong Liberal and Green the work of associations in the EU. waves, who became respectively the 3rd and 4th biggest political force in 1. A new class of decision- the chamber and obtained a strong makers influence in the policy-making and a chance to secure strategic top posi- The main outcome of the tions. Eurosceptics also managed to 2019 EU political reshuffle is increase their presence in the European unquestionably the arrival of Parliament, but failed to unite and are Victor Belaud Victor

▼ new policymakers in Brussels. still represented through two political More than 60% of the new groups in the hemicycle. MEPs have never been in office previously, most of the To sum up, 2019 EU elections resulted high-ranking veteran MEPs were in a greater fragmentation of the EU either not re-elected or did not run political spectrum. SEPTEMBER 2019

3. A likelihood of political It is now neces- uncertainty sary to track the main changes in

Such fragmentation doesn’t come the parliamentary Ana Mingo without consequences for policy-mak- committees, in the ▲ ing. While convincing two political Commission and the families to adopt legislation proved cabinets of MEPs and sufficient until today, the new EU lead- Commissioners. At the ership has to rely on a majority com- same time, associations posed by three to four major politi- will attempt to answer sev- cal families: the Christian Democrats, eral questions such as: Who are the Socialists, the Liberals and the they? What is their background? Are Greens. In this context, finding major- they politically influent? What are their ities might prove difficult and more positions in the main policy issues of concessions will have to be made to your sector? secure the votes of MEPs who know stakeholders to take into consideration the value of their ballot has strongly Such mapping can be complex, but it every political group in their advocacy increased. The President-elect of the is vital to understand the political envi- strategies, because convincing only European Commission Ursula von der ronment your organisation will have the two main groups will not be suffi- Leyen woke to this new reality win- to deal with for the next five years. cient. Diversify your targets by getting ning the Parliament’s endorsement by Understanding the landscape early-on in touch with a wide range of newcom- a miniscule 9-vote margin. in the process will not only give clients ers and by establishing a trust-based a knowledge edge, it will also prove a relationship with relevant policymakers The EU, temple of political stability, smart long-term investment as strate- from the entire political spectrum. is therefore very likely to face strong gies will respond to new political prior- instability in the upcoming years. ities and realities from day one. 3. Join forces

HOW SHOULD ASSOCIATIONS 2. Diversify the targets In such an unstable and split political ADAPT TO FIT THIS NEW landscape, stability and unity will be POLITICAL CONTEXT? The next five years will be marked by a critical for stakeholders. To ensure that greater fragmentation of the political your associations’ interests are pro- 1. Understand the landscape spectrum, giving a more critical weight tected and heard in Brussels, you must, in the policymaking process to smaller therefore, find allies and join forces. With such a strong renewal of the EU parties. Directives and Regulations will By building coalitions with stakeholders political landscape, it is vital for asso- only be adopted if a sufficient number sharing the same interests, your associations to grasp it and identify the of political groups support them and ciation will gain both legitimacy and people that will matter in their sec- we can expect majorities to be tight. ability to reach more and higher-level tor by spotting the relevant players. This situation makes it essential for policymakers.

This article was provided by the International LOGOS is part of the MCI Group family, a globally Association of Professional Congress Organisers, integrated association, communication and event authors Ana Mingo, Senior Account Manager, management company with 62 offices globally. and Victor Belaud, Consultant, LOGOS Public IAPCO represents today 135 companies comprised Affairs, MCI Group. LOGOS is a Public Affairs, of over 9100 professional congress organisers, Association Management and Stakeholder meeting planners and managers of international dialogue company founded in 1998 and is a and national congresses, conventions and special EMAIL WEBSITE founding member of a EPACA. Since 2012, events from 40 countries [email protected] IAPCO.ORG HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

ust the thought of having to deal with the paperwork, time delays, ambig- Partnering With J uous authority and responsibility, administrative costs, etc. associated with most government contracts or partnerships is enough to scare away many non- Governmental profit groups. Small organisations, especially, are wary of the human resource It’s Not as drain to keep up with the strings that Entities: they believe are attached to any govern- Bad as You Think mental agreement or arrangement. There is another side to this arrangement that you may want to consider. That side includes some the benefits of “We’re from the government, not only accepting Governmental part- and we’re here to help,” nerships, but actually seeking them. Here are some: was the punchline of many jokes for many years in the United States. • Acquiring funding for your projects or programs - This is the most obvious benefit of working with governmental agencies. Those agencies whose missions (yes, they have missions, too) line up with those of your organization are always looking for partnering with other entities. For example, if a government agency is charged with improving health care in rural areas and your group’s members work in that field (e.g. medical, nursing, den- tistry, pharmaceutical), there is plenty of reason to get together.

• Enhancing your brand and the agency’s - Working with a government ABOUT THE AUTHOR entity is not taking a handout from Mark Levin, CAE, CSP has more than 20 anyone. In fact, letting members (and years of experience as an association exec- other stakeholders) know you have a utive and is also an internationally-known working relationship with a govern- speaker and consultant to the nonprofit mental body enhances your identity and association community. He currently as a group that will work with many serves as Executive Vice President of the partners. In most cases, the affiliation Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute, with a governmental agency adds to an international trade association, and as your branding efforts. Your group has President of B.A.I., Inc., his speaking and to go through a lengthy background consulting firm. check to establish its credibility before the Government will partner with you. He can be reached at [email protected] • Creating a win-win situation for the government entity - They can show or via his website at support for a non-profit that enhances BAILEADERSHIP.COM their effectiveness at serving the SEPTEMBER 2019

31 Picture by Geralt Picture by ▲

public. They can probably save money. government in a previous case where “partner.” They want to know if their They can add to their own agency’s the government needed it? organisation is open to partnering with credibility by partnering with another any reasonable person, organisation, sector of the economy and the society. • Are the penalties for not complying entity, or, yes, governmental agency, to They can enhance their appearance of with all of the governmental bureau- further the mission of their group and LATEST STORIES & INSIGHTS STORIES LATEST MEETINGMEDIAGROUP.COM transparency by spreading their grant cratic requirements worth the risk? to help them be more successful in their money around to various groups. Most government contracts do, in fact, individual and collective endeavours. come with a dizzying array of legal, finan- • Providing engagement opportu- cial and ethical guidelines that must be These governmental partnerships nities for your members - A new followed - otherwise the organization will, of course, vary from country to project, program or study gives could face fines, harsh penalties for country and from culture to culture. organisations a chance to reach out non-compliance and an end to the con- In some cases, this type of partnership to members who might not be in tract. There are definitely risks involved. has been in existence since the organ- leadership positions or regular attend- isation started. In other cases, this is ees at meetings, or conferences. • Is the acceptance of government a new type of arrangement for both support going to prevent your the organization and the governmen- There are, of course, some concerns organisation from being proactive tal entity. In either case, guidelines, too. Some are obvious, while some are on key issues? Suppose the agency outcomes, roles and responsibilities a little more subtle: or department that is funding your must be clearly defined and com- study proposes new guidelines that municated to all of the stakeholders. • Are conflicts of interest – or the will adversely impact your members. appearance of them – Going to be a Does this event influence how aggres- Associations and other non-profit problem? Can giving a grant or con- sively you oppose the regulations? organisations have always had a spe- tract to an organization, which is lob- cial relationship (sometimes good, bying the government for a specific law The key thing to consider is then: sometimes not so) with the various or issue, appear to give that organiza- what is the best path to take, in governmental entities that impact tion unwarranted access or influence? terms of meeting members’ needs? their industries, professions and Can the awarding of a government communities. The relationship that grant appear to be a way of thanking Remember that one of the words that works the best is the one where both an organization for supporting the members are most likely to hear is groups feel like true partners. HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

32 The ECM Summer School: Discover the Bridge to a Successful Career in the Meetings and Events Industry

We met Barbara Jamison, Head of Business Development Europe at London and Partners and European Cities Marketing (ECM) Vice President City Marketing, who hosted the 33rd ECM Summer School in London last August. Barbara told us more about the event from her perspective as a host of the last edition.

HQ Magazine: Barbara, you are HQ Magazine: Can you tell us more to educate themselves and others every London & Partners representative about the ECM Summer School? day. It is a crucial task for top manage- within ECM since 2016. Why did you ment in each organisation, whether it is choose to join this organisation? Barbara Jamison: It is a door opener a CVB, tourist office, congress centre, to understand the meetings and events airline, hotel, DMC, PCO or meeting Barbara Jamison: London and industry right from the beginning of a planner. Education has to be ahead of Partners is the official promotional career. It’s a 4-day programme with a the curve, providing relevant knowledge agency for the Mayor of London and faculty of 15 widely recognised indus- and educational opportunities. City to City partnerships is one of try professionals. The programme sets the Mayor’s key priorities. I have held out the background and context of the An ideal case study is VISITFLANDERS, ECM in high regard for many years industry with key players, destination the promotional tourism board for and believe that they provide “the” development and stewardship, client Flanders and Brussels. They sign up platform for like-minded cities to types and requirements, RFP and deci- for an annual package of ECM Summer exchange knowledge and become best sion-making processes, b2b event strat- School registrations and offer their in class within our industry. egy, exhibition planning, PR and social members the opportunity to send media, sustainability and legacy, focus- application letters demonstrating their HQ Magazine: How important ing on European and international best motivation to attend. Each year, 4 or 5 is education to European Cities practices. If you are new to the sector of them are selected to be part of the Marketing? and want fast track development: go for ECM Summer School family. Learning, it and register to attend! knowledge sharing, team building, pier Barbara Jamison: Education is a big to pier relationship building deliver all the part of the ECM strategy. Through its Since 1987, more than 1,980 students ingredients for success. conferences and Knowledge Groups, graduated from the School and now members always have an opportunity to hold strategic positions. It’s also impor- learn and develop! Also, every year the tant to note that ECM Summer School is ECM Summer School [traditionally taking qualified for CMP certification and that place last week of August - Ed.] allows students earn a total 20 hours for their people just starting out in the sector to overall CMP certification. get insights into the Meetings and Events Industry. Students have the opportunity HQ Magazine: Why should new to interact throughout the course with meetings industry professionals the high level and diverse faculty across attend the ECM Summer School?

all sectors. It has been a success for 32 Barbara Jamison years. Last August, the ECM Summer Barbara Jamison: We live in a world ▲ School took place in London and we of constant change, and the Meetings couldn’t have been prouder to host such Industry is no exception. To face this an iconic event. ongoing challenge, professionals have SEPTEMBER 2019

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HQ Magazine: For a big capital city In 2001 I started a new job in Destination like London, what are the benefits of Management. As the Director Conventions, hosting such an event? I founded and established the Berlin Convention Office - the official Convention Barbara Jamison: London is home to Bureau for the German capital. It was over 100,000 international students from an exciting time, but I had to learn a lot. over 200 different nations – that’s more Representing a city is quite different from ▲ Heike Mahmoud international students than in any other being a Sales or Project Manager for a PCO city in the world. or venue. Your job is much more complex than that, it has to fulfil a lot of expecta- The ECM Summer School delegates, fac- tions and you have to be on service to your SINCE 1987, ECM SUMMER ulty and content reflects diversity and clients, partners, stakeholders and your SCHOOL IN NUMBERS: talent which are key to our culture and team nearly 24/7. – A network of 1980 students beliefs. London has an exciting future (and as much diploma delivered) for all types of meetings and events and ECM was a perfect platform for me so I – 891 hours of active learning the city requires the skills and knowl- registered for the ECM Summer School – 31 different hosting cities edge to move forward and develop. in 2003. It was really a one in a lifetime The London Convention bureau wants opportunity! Not only I could learn a lot – 15816 coffee served to ensure that meetings and events pro- about all areas in the global Meetings vide a legacy of good investment and Industry,it was also a chance to hear future skills for London, its residents and about trends, develop my network and its visitors. strengthen my intercultural skills.

We also asked Heike Mahmoud, Under my leadership, Berlin became one of Chief Operating Officer, CCH the most successful conference and con- Congress Center Hamburg, who was gress destinations from 2001 to 2017. In the once a student of the ECM Summer global ICCA-ranking in 2015 - International School and who is now one of its Congress & Convention Association - Berlin EUROPEANCITIES Faculty members, her perspective on took first time the lead in the worldwide MARKETING.COM the school and what it brought her city statistics. through the years. Here is her letter: Now, after an intense involvement in “My journey in the global Meetings Industry the ECM Board and as a former Vice- started more than two decades ago. At that President Meetings Industry, I can use As a long-time faculty member of the ECM time, it was not clear, in which direction I my knowledge, experiences and my global Summer School, I am proud to be involved wanted to go – working with a venue, a network to make the next decision on my in one of the most important education PCO or Incentive house, a hotel or for a journey: being the COO for one of the platforms in our industry. And I would like CVB? I decided to start with a congress largest congress venues in Germany – the to add thatit is not just a “one way” edu- hotel and used every network and contact CCH-Congress Center Hamburg since cational programme: it is more like a “high- to learn from clients, industry partners and March 2018. The centre is under exten- way” because I get inspiration by the young colleagues. And after a while I explored my sive construction and redesign and it will students, too. It is the perfect win-win-situ- deep passion to our great industry! reopen in August 2020. ation!” – Heike Mahmoud, CMP HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

It’s been said that the best way to predict the future is to create it. The CTICC offers the ideal platform to do just that. Every aspect of the centre’s offering has been considered – from the more than 140 000m² of flexible space across two state-of-the-art buildings to world-class technology, delicious cuisine, and service- driven staff. Turn your knowledge and vision into potential with events that shape your future at the CTICC.

Call +27 21 410 5000, email [email protected] or visit www.cticc.co.za and connect to possibilities. HQ #90 - VENUE SEPTEMBER 2019

35 Cape Town’s Pride

ICCA confirmed again this year that Cape Town is their number one meetings’ destination of choice after the city was named the ‘World’s Leading Festival and Events Destination’ at the 2018 World Travel Awards. The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has played an integral role in Cape Town’s rise in business-tourism popularity and this has had some impressive benefits for the local community.

he CTICC specifically aims at attract- investing in staff and their development, aspect of the CTICC’s operations. This ing events aligned to the key catalytic with 6% of total salary bill going to training, includes engaging clients to integrate envi- T sectors identified by the City of Cape as well as fostering student and graduate ronmental practices into their conferences, Town as priorities for trade and invest- training programmes. In the previous finan- as well as the CTICC’s ongoing commitment ment growth, notably: tourism and events, cial year, the CTICC made a R4.5bn contri- to the reduction in energy, water, carbon agri-processing, the green economy e.g. bution to GDP and R3.1bn contribution to emissions and waste. In addition, the CTICC renewable energy, business process out- GGP. The cumulative economic contribu- is committed to procuring goods from sourcing and retail (including clothing and tion to GDP over the centre’s first 15 years small, medium and micro enterprises and textiles, digi-tech, oil and gas, electronics). of operation stands at R40.8bn. it further directly supports five local community partners. This move translated into The events hosted by the CTICC attract The CTICC’s triple-bottom-line approach is R1.8m spent on corporate social responsi- world authorities, who come here to informed by a comprehensive environmen- bility, during the past financial year. exchange knowledge. At the same time, tal strategy and monitored by a dedicated the local community gets the opportunity Sustainability Committee, Nurture Our The contribution made by the CTICC to to interact with international role play- World (NOW), which works to ensure that Cape Town and the Western Cape region ers and absorb market trends. As such, sustainability stays at the centre of every as a whole is unlikely to slow. In the past the CTICC plays a critical role in financial year, the centre hosted connecting people, driving the a total of 454,338 delegates and knowledge economy and creat- visitors. At the same time forward ing opportunities for investments, bookings are looking healthy, with which in turn create jobs. 106 international events already secured and scheduled to take This is reflected in the CTICC’s place at the CTICC between now annual economic contribution and 2026. and job-creation figures. Since its launch, the centre has created This could not have been achieved more than 115,000 jobs and, last without our clients, many of financial year alone, it created whom return year after year. So 8,553 among direct and indirect thank you for making the CTICC jobs. The CTICC is committed to the pride of Cape Town! HQ #90 - DESTINATION

36 Calgary’s Energy Ignites

Calgary’s city slogan invites visitors to “be part of the energy”. This tagline refers both to the vibrant community and spirit of this Western Canadian city and also to the largest industry in Calgary: the energy sector. MEETINGSCALGARY.COM

algary is the epicenter of the energy have invented, innovated, optimized and and nearby access to major hotel brands industry in Canada, with two thirds marketed some of the leading technolo- also made Calgary an easy choice for our C of Calgary’s 115 head offices focused gies and best practices in the world.” conference.” And adds: “Meanwhile, the on the energy and oilfield services sec- proximity to multiple tourist attractions tor. Their reputation as world leaders in Beyond conventional energy, there is a nearby such as the Canadian Rockies responsible energy production helped strong drive towards sustainable and envi- and the Canadian Badlands will allow our to secure the bid for the 2023 World ronmentally responsible energy sources. attendees time for fun and relaxation Petroleum Congress, as, according to WPC Calgary is strongly positioned in this sec- before and after the event. The 47th IEEE Canada Chair Denis Painchaud, “Our indus- tor as well, with 240 renewable energy PVSC organizing committee is looking try is considered on the leading edge in companies and 108 energy storage com- forward to hosting our first conference in terms of technologies deployed.” Calgary panies calling The Stampede City home. Canada and we are thrilled that it will take is one of only three cities that has hosted As Canada’s sunniest metropolitan city, place in Calgary!” the congress twice – the first time being in Calgary is second in the country for pho- 2000, which is still considered one of the tovoltaic potential. This sets the stage Outside of Calgary’s abundance in best for delegate experience and financial for a successful bid for the 2020 IEEE natural resources and innovation, the success, according to Painchaud. Darcy Photovoltaics Specialist Conference. Seth energy of the city and its citizens is Spady, 2018 President for the Society Hubbard, Program Chair, describes the contagious. Named the most livable city of Petroleum Engineers, hosting their other winning factors: “Calgary repre- in North America by The Economist in Annual Technical Conference & Exhibition sented an ideal location due to numerous 2018, Calgary is a city rich with beautiful in Calgary in September 2019 agrees: direct flights to both Europe and Asia, as landscapes and urban vibrancy, offering “Calgary is known as a global leader in well as Calgary’s commitment to renewa- dynamic experiences that enable visitors energy technology, especially in the oil and ble and green energy,” he says. “The excel- to enjoy endless opportunities outside a gas sector,” Darcy says. “Our companies lent TELUS Convention Center facilities conference itinerary.

HQ #90 - DESTINATION

38 Conventions Malta - your one stop shop for all you need to know about association subventions and hosting your world class event

Sunny Malta may be the smallest country in Europe but our history, culture and influence are and have always been impressive. Recent investment and regeneration, improvements to our infrastructure, a strong economy and can-do attitude are bringing new businesses, ideas and opportunities to our historically fascinating and beautiful islands. Hosting successful and engaging events is one of our many skills: with a wealth of historic and state of the art venues in addition to a lively and vibrant sporting, social and cultural scene, Malta is your destination of choice and Conventions Malta your first call.

ormed as a not-for-profit body in internet specialists, and event and confer- allocation of €200 (including VAT) per 2015 by the Malta Tourism Authority ence centres to ensure your association decision maker as a contribution towards F (MTA) and the Government, event is the most successful it can be. flights. This contribution is capped at Conventions Malta is purposely designed two decision makers per site inspection. to offer excellent and impartial advice, We recommend beginning with a site Funding is provided to the associations local knowledge and know-how, from inspection and a ‘meet and greet’ with directly as part of the support offered bidding to post event. Our success is Conventions Malta Management. Seeing by Conventions Malta and granted on recognised through the various awards is believing with our beautiful islands: you a post event basis, subject to the event won to date: M&TT Gold 2016, TTC World can enjoy our famed hospitality and 300 being confirmed for Malta or Gozo. Travel 2017 and many others are a testa- days of sunshine per year. According to ment to our multi-talented team. We can research by Cambridge Policy Consultants Furthermore, we offer a subvention help with introductions and meetings with this year, 81% of association organisers at €25 per participant up to a max- hotels, local Destination Management see the familiarisation trip as key in the imum of €12,500 (including VAT) Companies, transport providers, IT and choice making procedure. We offer an towards the event. Full details on how SEPTEMBER 2019

to apply are available on our website global brands, property, medical tourism China and South Korea. Furthermore, we www.conventionsmalta.com. and 4* and 5* luxury offers intertwined are currently negotiating with Australia, with over 2,000 years of history, culture Brazil and India to extend MTA’s rep- Our determination to ensure that we and vibrant Mediterranean life. resentation across the globe. go the extra mile for all our clients is shown in our provision of promotional Should environmental issues be as high on Working closely with all the best oper- items and corporate gifts: brochures, your list as they are on ours, rest assured ators in Malta and fully supported by a maps and giveaways for all international that our small size, efficient transport and pro-business government overseeing a participants, plus one corporate gift per ease of transfers ensure the minimisation spectacular but steady growth and suc- VIP Guest is standard practice with us. of carbon footprints. Delivering you and cess as an ICCA member Conventions, VIPs include speakers, committee mem- your delegates to world class facilities, Malta is your trusted partner for all asso- bers, heads of delegations and other cultural destinations or even the beaches ciation meeting and conference require- dignitaries. and sparkling blue Mediterranean sur- ments and subventions. Malta is open for rounding us is a matter of minutes rather your business. We also offer bidding resources such than hours. as content design and production of a destination presentation which can be When you add in our political stability, EU adapted by the respective association. An membership, A+ Fitch rating and English endorsement letter and high res images speaking population, clearly Malta should are available from www.viewingmalta.com be your destination of choice for all high Conventions Malta as part of our procedure to ensure your profile events and association meetings. Malta Tourism Authority, bid is successful. Finally, we provide you Having hosted the Commonwealth Heads Building SCM 01, Suites 301-306, with destination videos of the beautiful of Government (CHOGM) 2015 led by SmartCity Malta Maltese Islands. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Ricasoli SCM 1001 2017 Revolving Presidency of the EU, our Kalkara, Malta WHAT YOU WILL DISCOVER ON safety and security measures can be seen (00356) 22915000 YOUR FAMILIARISATION TRIP as second to none. [email protected] 21st century Malta is home to burgeoning In addition to our team at the MTA head high tech and transformational industries office in Malta, we have offices across all WWW.CONVENTIONSMALTA.COM such as Blockchain and A.I., international major European cities, New York, Russia, financial institutions, R&D, manufacturing, the Middle East and GCC countries, Japan, Terms and Conditions apply. HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

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41 HQ #90 - ASSOCIATION INSIGHTS

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43 Sunset concert at ancient Jaffa Your convention 7PM Night visit to starts 9AM the museum 10PM

Espresso seminar Rooftop dinner 8PM at the market 5PM Drinks on Coffee & yoga by the beach 12AM the beach 8AM

An innovative convention needs an innovative city.

Tel Aviv, a convention city truly like no other. Tel Aviv Convention Bureau | Tel: +972 (03) 7248090 | www.cvb-tel-aviv.com | [email protected]