MPI keynote Justin Wren set the tone early on the first day of IMEX America, October 8 – 10, saying: “Collective impact is what I’m all about – and it’s what you’re about too. I hope you’re aware of the effect of your work and its ripple effect into the wider world.” The Champion MMA fighter’s work with his nonprofit Fight for the Forgotten makes a positive and long-term impact supporting communities in Africa.
It’s a message which resonated with buyer Nicole Bamford from aNd Logistix: “I was moved by his story! We work closely with our host destinations and also in our local community – donating to shelters in Toronto, for instance.”
Megan Henshall from Google Xi is a strong proponent for the power of events to help people flourish: “One of our mottos is to leave people better than we found them. There are issues we can all experience – from loneliness to health and well-being – that can be helped by gathering together,” said Megan in her education session Designing for Human Flourishing held at the Google Xi CoLaboratory.
A foundation of friendship
At the heart of events lies strong business connections and friendships. Buyer Cree Daniels from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative commented: “I’m here to build on my network and meet the new destinations we’re expanding our events into. The way I see it, the hotel – event planner relationship is mutually exclusive; we both want each other to do well. The whole planning process is smoother – and more fun – when underpinned by strong friendships.”
Building connections was also the primary aim for some of the first-timers at the show. A group of newbies joined a dedicated first-timers welcome, part of a wider package of support to welcome new faces to the show.
“I’m here on my own so I’m hoping to find a buddy to explore with and make connections for future events” explained Julie Mongoni from The Moving Company. “I came to IMEX because of its size and scope - I know that if there’s a venue we’re interested in, it will be represented here. Plus, a partner of mine spoke very highly of this event, so I wanted to experience it for myself!”
Haley Sweeney, from Cottingham & Butler, added: “I joined the welcome session to learn how to maximize my experience here. Based in Iowa, I organize events across the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. I've been in touch with some industry contacts for years but haven't yet met them in person, so I came to IMEX to strengthen those relationships and explore how we can enhance our partnerships through meeting face-to-face.”
- Photo (L) : Learning sessions at IMEX America. Download image here.
- Photo (R) : Google Xi CoLaboratory. Download image here.
Partnering for progress
The partnership approach was explored in some of the education sessions taking place at the show floor’s Inspiration Hub. Michel Mari from VisitParisRegion was one of a series of guests at #Eventprofs Unplugged. He talked about how this summer’s Olympics, which brought 4.1m tourists to the Paris region, transformed the city, enhancing connectivity and leaving a sporting legacy. Talks are now ongoing with Los Angeles to share learnings and advice ahead of the next Olympic games in 2028.
The Paris Olympics also featured in a press conference by Atout France earlier in the day. Attendees learned about the much-anticipated reopening of Notre Dame cathedral in December and heard presentations from five French companies making a positive impact through digital innovation. One example is Vasy, an urban navigation tool that combines artificial intelligence and psychological factors to help people find their way through a city or area safely and with ease.
IMEX America 2024 takes place at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, October 8 - 10. www.imexamerica.com
ENDS
Notes to editors
IMEX America 2024 takes place at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, and opens with Smart Monday, powered by MPI on Monday October 7, followed by the three-day trade show October 8 - 10. www.imexamerica.com
The latest news and high-res photos: https://imexamerica.com/press-and-media
For interviews, press events and other enquiries contact the PR team: [email protected] or head to the on-site Press Center, sponsored by Tampa Bay, open from 0800 each day of the show.