Conference & Meetings World Issue 122 | Page 34

News Expert spotlight

Finnish Congress Heroes

FINLAND CONVENTION BUREAU HAS ACKNOWLEDGED SOME OF ITS CONGRESS HEROES BY TELLING INSPIRING STORIES ABOUT THEM , ILLUSTRATING HOW CONGRESSES CAN HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON SOCIETY scientific research in general and especially in the fields of the CINC . Having a successful scientific event requires capable local organisers who understand the topic and its traditions . Access to internationally recognised names for the organisation is also key .”

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hree Finnish academics have been lauded for their key role in bringing international conferences to Finland in 2022 . The campaign presents three inspiring stories about influential and talented experts in their field who secured high-profile conferences in their respective cities and universities . These heroes and their stories are highlighted on the Finland Convention Bureau ’ s social media channels and website . The stories illustrate how the congress organisers work tirelessly to create high-level scientific programme and memorable experiences for their guests .
Finland is a great country for business events and known for its nature , room to roam and clean air . A key driver for congress business is active local co-operation .
So let us introduce the Finnish Congress Heroes and their inspiring stories :
EURO 2022 Antti Punkka , professor of practice , Aalto University and chair of the Organising Committee Euro 2022 – the 32nd European Conference on Operational Research – held at the new Aalto University
Campus in the city of Espoo in June 2022 :: “ I believe that Finland has a great reputation as a safe and stable country for hosting events . We get things done on time , even when surprises come up .
“ We exceeded all our expectations and received great feedback . We had about 1,900 participants who were clearly inspired by human interaction and in-person networking after a couple of years of online meetings . We had gorgeous weather and an easygoing atmosphere . Finland and Espoo were at their best , and I believe many will consider Aalto University for their future studies or career path .”
Computing in Cardiology 2022 Jari Hyttinen , professor of Biomedical Engineering , Tampere University and chair of the CINC ( Computing in Cardiology ) 2022 Organising Committee : “ When it comes to congresses , the big picture is what matters . We wanted to provide the audience scientific substance , opportunities for networking among colleagues and a chance to see something new and exciting .
“ Finland has a tradition of robust
“ Having a successful scientific event requires capable local organisers who understand the topic and its traditions . Access to internationally recognised names for the organisation is also key ”
Professor Anne Koivisto , chair of the Local Organising Committee of the 9th Kuopio
Alzheimer Symposium and 3rd Nordic Memory Clinic Conference : “ Finland wants to be an active participant in the global scientific community , sharing responsibilities , offering expertise and helping solve problems . Finland is home to a great deal of top-tier expertise and scientific research . We produce high-impact research that ranks above the global average , despite growing international competition .
“ Kuopio has a high-level research centre and clinic for memory disorders . This allows us to present local and national achievements to the other experts in our field .
“ After such a successful event , I assume our reputation is now even better than before – this will make it easier for us to collaborate with other research groups and memory clinics in the future .” n
34 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / ISSUE 122