IBTM World: steering the events industry into an inclusive and prosperous future. Photo Credit: RX
IBTM World 2023 which runs from 28-30 November, has revealed the
first details of its conference programme. This first keynote address
embodies the essence of the conference programme, giving a platform to
voices from different backgrounds, perspectives, and identities, to
challenge and energise delegates and steer the events industry into an
inclusive and prosperous future.
The first keynote speaker, Maria Teixidor, will lead the way on the
Main Stage with a fireside address on the first day where she will share
her personal experience as a woman within one of the world’s most
renowned men’s football clubs. As a previous member of the Board of
Directors of Barcelona FC, and the first woman to hold the position of
Board of Directors secretary, she will share insights into the
multifaceted world of football leadership, delving into the strategies
and values that underpin the creation of a thriving team culture and a
devoted fan base. Teixidor will reveal how she successfully navigated
the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry, and share
actionable steps for achieving gender equality.
Other speakers include Ellie Middleton, an autistic and ADHD speaker,
writer and creator. After a lifetime of feeling misunderstood, Ellie
was diagnosed with both autism and ADHD at the age of 24. Since then,
she has gone on to build an audience of almost 400,000 people online,
write her first book with Penguin Life, and work with global brands like
Disney, Google, Samsung and LinkedIn to change perspectives on
neurodivergence.
Her session, titled ‘The future of events: neuro inclusion as a
channel to cultivating belonging’, will see her join a lively
discussion, with representatives from Google and FIRST, about embracing
neurodiversity when designing experiences to show how events can truly
resonate with all brain types.
Workplace Revolution
Recognising that not every attendee accesses content in the same way,
this year IBTM World has launched Workplace Revolution, where delegates
can hold conversations with inspirational figures in a relaxed,
campfire-style setting.
These figures include CEO of equity, diversity and inclusion
consultancy SLS 360, Samantha Stimpson, who will host a workshop,
"Creating diverse cultures: why, how, when ...’ Stimpson will equip
delegates with the knowledge, tools, and strategies they will need to
create these cultures within their organisations and will demonstrate
how such cultures can drive innovation and boost productivity.
Richard John, COO at Realise Me, a specialist events services agency,
with his session ‘Diversifying the Workplace: tapping into the
potential of those with learning difficulties’, will be joined by
representatives from Hilton Birmingham Metropole and The Power of
Events, and Samantha Stimpson, to delve into how hiring people with
intellectual disability, or those from disenfranchised parts of society,
can be a beneficial option for event businesses.
Vasyl Zhygalo, IBTM World’s portfolio director, said: “This year’s
show is all about illustrating to event professionals their role and
influence in shaping business culture. For this culture to thrive,
building an environment of inclusivity is essential.”