We were inspired to "go beyond your orbit" by engaging in education, debate, and discussion.
Kicking Off the Year with Innovation and Purpose
We were inspired to "go beyond your orbit" by engaging in education, debate, and discussion, showcasing the transformative power of the global business events community to spark innovation and foster meaningful change within the industry.
The quest for common ground often requires creating a safe space for tough conversations.
Insights from Visionary Speakers
Each day we were inspired by thought-provoking keynote speakers. Scott Galloway, Professor of Marketing at NYU’s Stern School of Business, emphasised the importance of simplifying consumer choices, “Consumers don’t want more choice; they want to be confident in the choices presented to them.” Liz Cheney, Former U.S. Representative, engaged in a Q&A with our host, Holly Ransom, and offered a compelling reminder about fostering productive dialogue, “The quest for common ground often requires creating a safe space for tough conversations.”
Education sessions covering various aspects of diversity, equity and inclusion ran throughout the event.
Standing Firm on DEI Values
The conference made a bold statement about the values of the business events industry. Despite high-profile organisations withdrawing their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, PCMA Convening Leaders reaffirmed its commitment to these principles. Education sessions covering various aspects of diversity, equity and inclusion ran throughout the event, underscoring the industry’s resolve to uphold these values and to champion inclusivity.
VisitScotland’s Head of Business Events, Neil Brownlee, taking office as the first PCMA Chair from outside North America.
A Historic Leadership Moment
A landmark moment for PCMA and Scotland came with VisitScotland’s Head of Business Events, Neil Brownlee, taking office as the first PCMA Chair from outside North America. In front of a global audience of 4,000 delegates, Brownlee outlined his ambitious plans for 2025, signalling a new era of leadership that reflects the truly international nature of the events industry.
The discussion underscored the importance of standing up for inclusion and creating environments where everyone feels valued and respected.
Addressing LGBTQ+ Inclusion
I joined the panel for the session, "Creating a Welcoming Culture when the LGBTQ+ Community Feel Unwelcome," hosted by The LGBT Meeting Professionals Association. This session provided practical takeaways and shone a light on the challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly considering the rise of polarised politics. The discussion underscored the importance of standing up for inclusion and creating environments where everyone feels valued and respected.
The industry must continue its work to drive positive social progress, stand up for human rights, and address global challenges with courage and conviction.
A Call to Action for 2025
As the conference concluded, it became clear that the year ahead demands action. The industry must continue its work to drive positive social progress, stand up for human rights, and address global challenges with courage and conviction. The energy and ideas shared at PCMA Convening Leaders 2025 have set a powerful foundation for what promises to be a transformative year for all of us.
