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The final countdown
IMEX AMERICA IS READY TO RETURN WITH PURPOSE AND POSITIVITY . CMW PREVIEWS SOME OF THE CONTENT LINED UP
T he countdown is on , with IMEX America finally returning in Las Vegas , 9-11 November . The 2021 show has new features and a learning programme shaped by the pandemic . It also celebrates its 10th edition in a new home , Mandalay Bay .
Organisers have nearly 3,000 hosted buyers confirmed from across North America and the world , plus hundreds of attendee buyers – largely from the USA .
Most major international hotel brands are expected and technology suppliers will not be in short supply . Expect to see Cvent , EventsAIR , Hopin , Swapcard , and MeetingPlay among others .
Purposeful and positive Mindful that skillsets may now need updating after a challenging year , the IMEX team has created an education programme which will shine a light on how to build back positively . The free learning programme launches with Smart Monday , powered by MPI , on 8 November . The education continues with a series of workshops , hot topic tables and seminars during the three days of the show . Sessions cover Creativity in communication ; Diversity and accessibility ; Innovation and tech ; Business recovery , Contract negotiations , Personal branding and Sustainability .
The Hilton team will discuss the best practices they embraced during the past year and Marin Bright from Smart Meetings shares her ‘ post Covid success manual ’ covering broadcast production , contract essentials and communication strategies . The Maritz team explore how new technology offerings can support the events of the future .
How can we reimagine meetings and events through virtual experiences ? That ’ s the question Derrick Johnson asks in his session which will include tips on how to engage ‘ digitally distracted ’ audiences . Blending the digital with the physical is the focus of Dax Callner , strategy director at agency Smyle , who ’ s session will offer ideas on creating shared experiences and networking both for those joining online ( URL ) and in physical settings ( IRL ).
Diversity dialogues Diversity forms a core thread through IMEX America .
The She Means Business event will explore gender equality and female empowerment and there is also the opportunity to join small discussion groups with women who are trailblazers in their field .
Education sessions exploring other elements of diversity include : Accommodating people with disabilities at in-person and virtual meetings and events , and Cheerful Twentyfirst ’ s Elena
Below : Mandalay Bay , Las Vegas
Clowes detailing the findings of the agency ’ s research on racial diversity .
The new IMEX | EIC People & Planet Village on the show floor will champion sustainability , diversity , social impact and giving back . Partners involved will invite attendees to build a Clubhouse - play space for a sick child .
Social sizzle & surprise There will be opportunities to connect outside of the show floor . Bespoke tours provide the lowdown on Las Vegas whether it ’ s the finest food , mystery experiences or the inside track on some of the city ’ s iconic venues . There ’ s also a cause for celebration at evening events Site Nite taking place at the new Resorts World , MPI Foundation ’ s signature Rendezvous event at Drais and the EIC Hall of Leaders at MGM Grand .
“ We can ’ t wait to welcome back our community ,” said CEO of IMEX Group , Carina Bauer , who added : “ Now that the US borders are open from 8 November we ’ re thrilled that more people from all corners of our international industry can come to the show and use it to help kickstart business .”
IMEX America takes place 9 – 11 November at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas .
ISSUE 115 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 43