Educational content to offer strategic and practical tips to navigate today’s business environment. Photo Credit: The Meetings Show Asia Pacific
Whether big picture trends or practical takeaways, the TMS APAC 2026 Education Programme is chock full of opportunities to acquire insights needed to navigate the rapid currents of the business environment.
Highlights among the sessions on Day One (14 April) are:
The Silent Killers of Innovation in an AI Economy
Part of the new Talks in 10 series of rapid-fire presentations, happening during the 11:30 - 12:10 session | MICE Studio 1
Speakers: Nicky Verd, digital futurist, Unique Speakers Bureau; Dr Paula Smith, training director and principal expert, Global Institute of Training and Presenting; Brice Degeyter, CEO, Bizsu
This session explores the hidden forces that kill innovation in the age of AI: fear disguised as caution, tool obsession without thinking, leadership that delegates AI away from decision-making, and cultures that reward certainty over experimentation. It challenges leaders to confront uncomfortable truths about how fear, legacy thinking and misplaced incentives undermine creativity in the very moment it’s needed most.
Event AI Tools in Action
10:00 – 10:30 | MICE Studio 2
Speakers: Paula Rowntree, founder, The Business Events Network; Gina Samuels, founder & managing director, The Production House Events
AI is a constant talking point, but this session focuses on practical use. Expect a walkthrough of five tools that planners can apply immediately, from reducing admin time to improving content and decision-making. The session is designed to be accessible, with real workflows and examples rather than theory.
Connecting a Changing World: The Strategic Role of MICE
10:45 – 11:15 | MICE Studio 2
Moderator: James Lancaster, AMI editor & editorial director, Northstar Meetings Group
Speakers: Carrie Kwik, ED, Conventions, Meetings & Incentive Travel, Singapore Tourism Board; Jing Wen Wong, head of Meetings & Events, FCM Meetings & Events
This panel explores how business events are adapting to a more complex global landscape. Using Singapore as a reference point, speakers will discuss how connectivity, neutrality and strong ecosystems can support more effective international engagement, with practical insights for planners working across markets.
Beyond the Brochure: Secrets Unlocked – Ayana Resort Bali and Jeju
13:00 – 13:30 | MICE Studio 2
Speakers: Cynthia Sitompul, assistant director of MICE, Ayana Resort Bali; Jeongeun You, manager, Jeju Tourism Organization
This session takes attendees beyond the catalogues to provide a peek behind the curtain at two of Asia’s resort destinations. Through Bali and Jeju, speakers will share lesser-known venues, programme ideas and case studies, including Jeju’s approach to regenerative tourism and more immersive, identity-led experiences for delegates.
Northstar & Cvent Pulse Survey
13:00 – 13:30 | MICE Studio 1
Speakers: James Lancaster, AMI editor & editorial director, Northstar Meetings Group; Jason Gewirtz, senior vice president/content, meetings and sports, Northstar Meetings Group; Will Kataria, country head & senior director, Cvent; Ana Tan, regional director, Singapore & Hong Kong, REALM Events
This session presents the latest findings from the Northstar and Cvent Pulse Survey. Speakers will break down key trends shaping the global events landscape, including shifts in demand, budgets and planner priorities, offering a data-backed view of current market conditions.
View the full TMS APAC 2026 Education Programme here.