TMS. ICCA plays a pivotal role in the global meetings industry. How do you ensure that ICCA remains at the forefront of industry developments and continues to provide value to its members across different regions?
Senthil Gopinath. As an organisation, we believe that really listening to our members and working closely with them is key to developing programmes and events that are valuable to them. We are continually developing new ways to gather feedback, including working with AI programmes to synthesise data from event participants, and using this information to improve and fine-tune our offerings to provide greater value to our members.
The members are the experts – they are all dedicated to achieving their own key objectives, and we are committed to supporting them in every way we can. This means communicating with chapter chairs and regional directors, offering opportunities for learning and exchanging ideas, and events like Congress, which not only enrich members and provide education and information on the most relevant topics facing our industry, but offer an incredible opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate the ways our industry can achieve our common goals of sustainability, advocacy, and legacy all over the world.
TMS. With the theme of the Congress being “Tomorrow Starts Today,” what future trends in the meetings and events industry do you think will be highlighted at the event?
Senthil Gopinath. The Congress focuses heavily on technology and features multiple sessions and discussion on this topic. As tech like AI and AR continue to grow and develop, it’s imperative that we harness the power of these tools to facilitate our own growth and development. Though these technologies are still somewhat nascent and can be controversial, when used correctly, they hold a great deal of potential to broaden horizons and improve processes and knowledge-sharing.
“Tomorrow Starts Today” also represents the idea that it’s up to us as stewards of this industry – and this Earth – to put in place the systems and processes necessary to allow future generations to prosper. We must work together to implement the changes that make real impact and leave behind a legacy of positive improvements in the communities we visit, and in the global community as a whole.
TMS. As CEO, what is your long-term vision for ICCA in terms of its growth, global impact, and influence within the meetings and events industry?
Senthil Gopinath. I see my role as a leader and a changemaker, and this means listening to those on my team as well as our members, synthesising the feedback they provide, and developing a roadmap for the future of our association that allows us to align with our Guiding Principles, which include leadership, advocacy, sustainability, legacy and future-building, and DEI. When we align with these guidelines, we can achieve wonderful things, and we can be the resource and support to our members that we pride ourselves in being.
TMS. The ICCA Congress is a major event in the meetings industry calendar. What key messages and takeaways do you hope to deliver at the upcoming 63rd ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi?
Senthil Gopinath. As we like to say, “all roads lead to Congress!” It’s a time to meet, share, and collaborate to establish relationships with colleagues from across the globe. Our members – and the meetings and events industry as a whole – look forward all year to the insights, knowledge, and connections gained at Congress, and we are excited to provide them with this incredible opportunity.
This year, we’d like delegates to leave Abu Dhabi with refreshed confidence in the business events industry, and a new outlook on the technology and trends that are changing the way we all work and do business. We’d like to see participants feel like they are part of a global community that is doing important work – work that spans continents, generations, and sectors – to improve people’s lives, bring people together, and share knowledge for the betterment of us all.
TMS. Looking into the future, what is your vision for ICCA’s role in shaping the global meetings industry, particularly in light of technological advancements and shifting market dynamics?
Senthil Gopinath. ICCA has always been at the forefront of the meetings and events industry. Since its inception in 1963, we’ve stayed ahead of the changing technology and social trends over the years, adapting and continually shifting our methodology to accommodate the needs of our members and helping to ensure they stayed ahead of the pack when it comes to resources and tools. This congress’s programme, packed with sessions on technology and science developments, is a great example of how we’re continuing to stay ahead of the game with tech trends.
We are also committed to expanding our presence throughout the world, and this year we opened offices in Beijing and Panama City, demonstrating our dedication to serving members in these fast-growing markets and expanding the horizons of meetings and events professionals around the globe.
Our programmes including ICCAUni, the Future Leaders Council, and the Young Professionals Programme offer outreach and guidance to members of the younger generation just staring out in MICE, and we look forward to welcoming more participants to these programmes to help shape the next generation of meetings and events professionals.
TMS. For attendees coming to Abu Dhabi for the first time, what unique experiences or aspects of the city do you believe will leave a lasting impression on them?
Senthil Gopinath. Abu Dhabi is an international city and an exceptional destination for global events like the ICCA Congress. Our Events Team and our partners in Abu Dhabi have put together an unbelievable programme that highlights all the amazing sights to see in this unique city. With Out-of-the-Box sessions at some of the most incredible locations around town and luxurious social events at world-class venues, the Congress – and the location – will be one to remember for a long time.
The ICCA Congress is based at the ADNEC Centre, but the whole city is our venue: from the luxurious Gala Night at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel to the exciting Challenge Night at Warner Bros. World Theme Park, Congress delegates will have the opportunity to delight in all that Abu Dhabi has to offer.
Some key highlights of the city include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Presidential Palace, and Masdar City. Delegates are invited to join a City Tour free of charge as part of the Congress, and explore all Abu Dhabi has to offer.
TMS. Finally, what message would you like to share with ICCA members, participants, and the broader community about the importance of ICCA Congress and the opportunities that lie ahead?
Senthil Gopinath. The ICCA Congress is truly the highlight of the meetings and events calendar throughout the world. It’s a unique experience that celebrates the drive, dedication, and exceptional ambition of our community. It brings everyone together with one collective focus: promoting our industry and recognising the amazing things we can accomplish when we join together.
The power of business events is undeniable, and the impact our members have on local communities around the globe has the power to change the world. When we meet, we make a difference, and the ICCA Congress is the place where that change begins.
This year’s theme – Tomorrow Starts Today – is a perfect representation of our attitude toward the future. We know that when meetings and events professionals work together, we can move mountains, and ICCA looks forward to being at the forefront of this change.
