IMEX-MPI-MPCI Future Leaders Forum at the CMP Conclave 2018

Investing in the development of our industry’s future leaders is a proven best practice. The IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum is a global programme that is making this investment by supporting students considering a career in meetings and events.

"Participating in the FLF was one of my first opportunities to grasp the complex issues around leadership, what it is, how it works and how to be a leader. Over the years I was fortunate to continue to learn about this important topic that affects everyone regardless of their career choice. I was also fortunate to moderate various FLFs and share my thoughts with other students. I have learnt that there is huge value in understanding how leadership works and for any student looking at a career in the events industry, there is no better place to start than the FLF."

- Miguel Neves, CMP, Head Chef at Social Media Chefs

"The FLF was a game-changer for me and really my first step into an amazing community, it provided a super network to establish a foothold in the MICE industry and a chance to rub shoulders with the leaders of the business travel sector. Through the relationships I built at the FLF I’ve now got a global network of friends & mentors alongside of course, my career- which I’ll be forever grateful for."

- Roger Simons, CMP, Associate Director, Sustainability, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

The Events Industry Council is honoured to be a partner in the delivery of an IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum with the CMP Conclave for the third consecutive year. In addition to the opportunity to participate in the forum, students will have an opportunity to participate in select CMP Conclave events and may also apply for a scholarship for the Sustainable Event Professional Certificate, offered immediately before Conclave on 15-16 November.

Final year students studying meetings and conventions, tourism or hospitality at a university or college are invited to attend a Forum. Forums typically take place as part of a larger meetings industry conference or trade show in 12 or more locations around the world every year. In the 16 years since its launch at the inaugural IMEX in Frankfurt, the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum has amassed a powerful legacy – with over 8,000 future event professionals attending over 150 Forums across the world.

"The programme helps students gain an invaluable insight into the meetings industry, learning from and connecting with inspirational industry experts and fellow students. It also gives seasoned industry professionals the chance to give something back to the next generation. Of the 8,000 students who have enjoyed connecting and learning at the Forums, many have gone o to enjoy careers in the industry. These budding event profs share a passion for the industry, they’re creative and they’re innovative – together they form a powerful legacy for our industry."

- Dale Hudson, Knowledge and Events Director, IMEX Group

The focus of the forums is to provide students with current industry perspectives and knowledge from active meeting professionals as well as provide high quality networking opportunities. The forums also provide the students with knowledge and tools that will help them in their transition from academic education to professional life. Over 95% of participants have said they are more likely to enter the industry as a result of the Future Leaders Forum.

All forums provide opportunities for the future leaders to:

• Gain an international perspective on the global meetings industry
• Overview of meetings and events industry career opportunities
• First-hand advice from meeting and event professionals
• Hear inspirational career stories and case studies
• Engaging session by industry experts on key topics (for example: sustainability, technology, online and offline networking, industry trends, business etiquette and personal branding)
• Career-focused networking opportunities
• Showcase their skills and talents

For registration information for the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum at the CMP Conclave, please contact mmcilwraith@eventscouncil.org