UFI
Building tomorrow’ s exhibition industry, one leader at a time
Chris Skeith OBE, CEO, UFI on a decade of talent nurturing via the Next Generation Leadership programme differently and make decisions based on different priorities. Understanding what drives them, what they expect from exhibitions, and how organisers must adapt represents a strategic challenge for the entire sector. The 2026 NGLs will explore these dynamics, develop recommendations, and present their findings at the 93rd UFI Global Congress. n 2016, UFI launched
I the Next Generation Leadership Programme with a straightforward goal: identify emerging talent and give them a platform. What began as an annual competition has evolved into something far more significant. Today, the NGL programme stands as the exhibition industry’ s leading talent accelerator, with a growing global network of alumni who stay involved, give back, and shape the future of our sector.
The transformation reflects what we have learned over a decade of supporting rising leaders. Talent development cannot be transactional. It requires sustained investment, genuine mentorship, and a community that extends beyond a single programme cycle. The NGLs who began their journeys in 2016, 2019, or 2022 remain connected and they mentor newer participants, contribute to industry conversations, and demonstrate that leadership is built through relationships as much as through formal learning.
The 2026 cohort This year marks the tenth edition, and the five NGLs selected for 2026 represent the global reach and diversity that makes the programme powerful. Divya Jashnani from dmg events in the UAE brings data and analytics expertise. Ewa Łukomska-Ślęk from Targi Kielce in Poland contributes brand communication experience. Mariella Greifenberg from Messe
Divya Jashnani
Ewa Łukomska-Ślęk
Düsseldorf North America adds customer experience insight. Tracy Abou Jaoude from IFP Group in Lebanon offers project management perspective. Vivian Yap from Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia brings a business development focus. Together, they will spend seven months tackling this year’ s mission: How can exhibitions stay relevant in a world shaped by Gen Z and younger Millennials?
The question matters because the exhibition industry must evolve to meet the expectations of emerging generations. These younger professionals and attendees engage
A structured journey The programme structure reflects commitment to real development, not just recognition. The NGLs participate in an intensive workshop at the UFI European Conference in İzmir in June, where they will begin shaping their project. Over the following months they collaborate online, supported by the UFI team and industry leaders. The Congress presentation is not an endpoint but a moment to receive feedback that will inform their ongoing contributions to the industry. Where the energy comes from What makes the NGL programme sustainable is the network that has grown around it. Alumni do not disappear after their programme year ends. They stay engaged, support new participants, and continue building the relationships formed during their time as NGLs. This Next-Gen Network includes professionals at various stages of their careers, all connected by their shared experience and commitment to advancing the exhibition industry.
The programme is made possible through the support of sponsors such as Clarion Events, dmg events, Informa Markets, Messe Düsseldorf, and RX.
If exhibitions are powered by people, then the NGL programme is where the energy comes from. Over the past decade, UFI has built something that lasts. EW www. exhibitionworld. co. uk Issue 3 2026 9