Thursday, October 3, 2024
For the first time ever, Taranaki, New Zealand, will host the Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) 2024 conference from November 25-27, 2024. Registration is now open for what promises to be a landmark event in the business events sector, bringing together professionals from across the industry for a dynamic mix of educational sessions, expert panels, and networking opportunities.
Set in the beautiful Devon Hotel in New Plymouth, this year’s conference features a full day and a half of top-tier educational content, including interactive panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and a relaxing social agenda. The event will also host BEIA’s annual general meeting (AGM) and multiple networking opportunities for attendees to exchange ideas and knowledge.
The 2024 BEIA conference is inspired by the Business Events National Strategic Direction 2025 – Pīata Mai, which lays out a comprehensive vision for enhancing the sector’s cultural, social, environmental, and economic impact over the next decade. This strategic vision aims to amplify the role of business events within New Zealand, driving sustainable and inclusive growth both locally and internationally.
The conference’s theme revolves around fostering sustainable industry growth and promoting positive cultural, social, and economic transformation. Discussions will center on how business events can contribute to these goals while creating a lasting legacy for the sector.
The conference will kick off on Monday, November 25, with a welcoming reception at the scenic Fitzroy Beach in New Plymouth. This laid-back setting will allow participants to connect with peers, meet new faces, and build lasting relationships.
Before the Welcome Function, industry newcomers will be introduced to the business events community through a dedicated session designed to integrate first-timers with experienced professionals. Additionally, regional convention bureaus will convene in a private session to discuss important regional strategies and collaborations.
Throughout the event, attendees will benefit from expert-led presentations and panel discussions featuring some of the most respected voices in the business events industry. The educational sessions, scheduled for November 26 and 27, will include speakers from across New Zealand and the globe.
Notable speakers include Brad Olsen, Principal Economist at Infometrics, who will provide key insights into the latest economic trends impacting the business events sector. His session will help attendees better understand how economic forces shape the industry’s future, both within New Zealand and internationally.
Another prominent speaker is Maretha Smit, CEO of Diversity Works, who will discuss the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the business events space. Smit will offer actionable strategies to foster more inclusive and diverse environments in the industry.
Professor Carmel Foley, an internationally recognized researcher from the University of Technology Sydney, will share her expertise on the lasting impact of business events, focusing on cultural and social contributions to the sector. Foley will provide a global perspective on how business events can leave a positive legacy.
These speakers, along with other industry experts, will address critical topics such as cultural integration, sustainability, and industry collaboration, all while emphasizing the role of business events in driving economic and social progress.
One of the conference highlights will be the culmination of the BEIA Mentorship Programme. Mentors and mentees will gather to celebrate their achievements and the relationships built over the year. This program has been instrumental in fostering the growth of young professionals within the business events industry, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and personal development.
BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins emphasized the importance of recognizing the hard work of both mentors and mentees. “Everyone will be making the most of this time to connect with colleagues and friends in the industry, and meet new people,” she said.
The conference will close on Wednesday, November 27, with an inspiring presentation from community advocates David Latele and Manu Vatuvei. Both speakers will share their personal stories of redemption and advocacy, offering insights into resilience and positive social change.
Before the conference concludes at lunchtime, attendees will be treated to a gala evening at the iconic Bowl of Brooklands. This celebratory event will honor industry leaders, including the presentation of the Outstanding Contributor Award to an individual or organization that has made a lasting impact on New Zealand’s business events industry.
With its focus on education, collaboration, and social impact, the BEIA 2024 conference is a must-attend event for anyone involved in the business events industry. Attendees will gain valuable insights from leading experts, network with like-minded professionals, and share best practices that will shape the future of the sector.
The 2024 conference is not just a gathering—it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact on the business events industry in New Zealand and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran or just starting out, this event offers the tools, insights, and connections needed to succeed in the ever-evolving business events space.
Don’t miss this transformative experience. Register now for the BEIA 2024 conference and take part in shaping the future of business events.
Tags: BEIA 2024 conference, Business Events Industry Aotearoa, Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) 2024 conference, business events Taranaki, cultural integration in business, Diversity and Inclusion, meetings industry, mentorship program, new plymouth, new zealand, New Zealand event management, New Zealand Travel Industry, Sustainability in Events, Taranaki, Travel Industry
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