Explore innovative ideas and practices, bold suggestions, and fresh perspectives to position Scotland as a destination.
The Identity Keynote Panel
A dynamic panel discussion featuring voices from across the business events industry and beyond, this session aims to challenge our understanding of Scotland’s identity on the global stage.
Together, we will explore innovative ideas and practices, bold suggestions, and fresh perspectives to position Scotland as a destination for innovation and social progress.
This thought-provoking panel session will address critical questions such as:
- What does it mean to be a good global citizen?
- How do we want Scotland to be perceived internationally?
- What messaging do we want to convey?
- What type of events do we want to attract?
- How can we balance cultural heritage with social progress and innovation?
Featured speakers include:
- Angela Inglis, Limitless DMC
- Claire Tesh, Port of Leith Distillery
- Jill Walker, VisitScotland
- Lyndsey Rafferty, Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)
Connect with fellow visionaries, share insights, and contribute to reshaping Scotland’s future on the global stage.
Participants will gain insights into actionable tactics to create positive change.
Impact and Social Progress Workshop
This engaging workshop explores how business events can drive meaningful impact and foster social progress. Through inspiring case studies and hands on scenarios, participants will gain insights into actionable tactics to create positive change.
Workshop curators and hosts:
- Campbell Arnott, Glasgow Convention Bureau
- Laura Wilson, Aberdeen Convention Bureau
Explore how to differentiate yourself and your organisation in a competitive marketplace.
Telling Your Story Workshop
Join Colin Horsburgh from En Pointe Solutions for an engaging and interactive workshop tailored to the business events industry community in Scotland. This workshop will explore how to differentiate yourself and your organisation in a competitive marketplace by refining your personal and organisational identity. Discover strategies for standing out, navigating the evolving future of trade shows and events and maximizing event ROI.
Featured speakers include:
- Richard Allchild, IMEX Group
The motion up for debate: This house believes that incorporating CSR activities into business events is merely a tick-box exercise.
The Big (BE) Debate
Amanda Ferguson from the University of Edinburgh brings her renowned debating session to the Journey: The Business Events Conversation. Join the University of Edinburgh debate team and industry leaders as we debate the pressing challenges and trends shaping our industry. The focus is on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
The motion up for debate:
This house believes that incorporating CSR activities into business events is merely a tick-box exercise.
- Which side will you take?
- Will your perspective shift as the debate unfolds?
- Is CSR just a superficial obligation, or is it a fundamental responsibility for all industries to contribute to society and act as responsible global citizens?
The members of the University of Edinburgh debate team will be joined by:
- Debbie Rose, EICC
- Elise MacDonald, Lux Events
- Gillian Rae, Spectra DMC
- Suzanne Davies, Crieff Hydro
Our signature Transformation Talks panel is bringing together a diverse lineup of social enterprises.
Transformation Talks (Volume 3)
Join Sian Downes from Strawberry Lemonade Events as she hosts our signature Transformation Talks panel, bringing together a diverse lineup of social enterprises. This year, we will highlight organisations we have collaborated with or aspire to partner with in the future, showcasing their innovative approaches to creating social impact.
Featured speakers include:
- Gordon McIntyre MBE, Hospitality Health
- Marion Menzies, Dress for Success Scotland
- Sophie Bell, Cyrenians
This national survey is designed to measure the size, value, and impact of the business events sector in Scotland.
Launch of the Business Events Monitor
Scotland’s first-ever Business Events Monitor will be launched at Journey: The Business Events Conversation. This national survey is designed to measure the size, value, and impact of the business events sector in Scotland. Discover how this research will provide vital insights to shape the future of the industry, and learn how you can get involved. Be part of this exciting step forward for Scotland’s business events community.
