From Tools to Partners: AI as a Transformative Force
Mark Kelly, founder of AI Ireland, set the stage with a thought-provoking session, “From Tools to Partners: How AI Agents are Revolutionising Business.” Tracing AI’s evolution from Turing’s Enigma code to today’s transformative agents, Kelly painted a vivid picture of AI’s increasing integration into business and events. From tools like ChatGPT to autonomous vehicles like Waymo, AI is no longer just an assistive utility but a dynamic partner reshaping industries.
Highlighting practical applications in events, Kelly introduced Operator AI, a booking tool streamlining logistics, and Borde AI, which fosters meaningful networking. He urged attendees to embrace AI responsibly, emphasizing proprietary data and organizational policies to guide adoption. Kelly left delegates with a clear message: “AI is not just about efficiency; it’s about creating smarter, more connected experiences.”
Complementing Kelly’s strategic view, Maryrose Lyons of the AI Institute offered hands-on insights. Demonstrating tools like Perplexity for research, Claude for data visualisation, NotebookLM for podcast summaries, and Gamma for presentation creation. Lyons showed how AI could be harnessed to simplify daily tasks. She cautioned, however, “While AI tools save significant time, how you reinvest that time defines their true value.”
Creating Communities: the Role of Associations
The second day’s venue, the historic Croke Park (which can accommodate up to 2,000 conference delegates), symbolized the forum’s theme of community innovation. Tom Parsons, CEO of the Gaelic Players Association, drew on his dual experience as a former athlete and Fortune 500 professional to illuminate how community-driven organizations thrive. Representing 4,000 elite intercounty players, Parsons emphasized the Gaelic Athletic Association’s (GAA) role in fostering Irish identity.
Parsons outlined four pillars for thriving membership organizations: a clear value proposition, empowered leadership, memorable experiences, and a culture of care. “Vision, purpose, and values are the heart of successful organizations,” Parsons asserted. Using the geese-in-flight analogy, he reminded attendees of the power of collective effort and leadership.
Inclusivity took center stage in Adam Harris’ session, “Pioneering Inclusivity: Dublin’s Journey to Becoming the First Autism-Friendly Capital.” Harris, CEO of As I Am, Ireland’s national autism charity, dedicated to creating a more inclusive and understanding society for autistic individuals, shared personal insights into Dublin’s transformation. Initiatives like sensory-friendly public spaces, quiet hours in stores, and the Autism ID card exemplify the city’s commitment to neurodiversity. Events such as Sensoria, Ireland’s first autism-specific festival, and the Autism Europe Congress, to be hosted in Dublin this September, demonstrate the tangible impacts of these efforts. The latter will even pilot a pioneering legacy project, which Boardroom will report on later.
“Creating an autism-friendly city benefits everyone, not just autistic individuals,” Harris noted. He underscored how inclusive measures enhance urban life for all demographics, including parents with strollers and seniors.





Sustainability & Legacy in Events
Sustainability emerged once again as a unifying theme, with Guy Bigwood of the Global Destination Sustainability Movement inspiring delegates to rethink event planning, emphasizing the shift from sustainability to regeneration. Using Coldplay’s sustainable touring model as an example, he showcased how impactful changes can minimize environmental footprints while maximizing social value.
A case study from the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ECRS) spotlighted the strides medical conferences can make in sustainability. Highlighting the environmental toll of cataract surgery—the world’s most common medical procedure—Guy Bigwood revealed its surprising contribution to healthcare emissions, which outstrip those of the aviation industry. In response, ECRS launched the ambitious “Operation Sustainability,” a program aimed at reducing the sector’s ecological footprint.
The initiative gave rise to Young Ophthalmologists for Sustainability (YOFS), a group that developed Citics, a groundbreaking index to evaluate surgical waste. Their efforts also introduced the sustainable cat pack, a streamlined solution that has slashed waste by 75% across 44 centers globally
Bigwood also shared innovative frameworks like the Floss method (Fair, Local, Organic, Sustainable, Social) for catering and tools like Trace for carbon tracking. He urged transparency in sustainability reporting, warning against “green hushing.” “Real change happens at the community level,” Bigwood reminded attendees, calling for collaboration and authenticity in driving sustainability.
A Forum of Legacy & Collaboration
The BestCities Global Forum 2025 showcased the strength of international collaboration, highlighting how connections forged during the event can resonate far beyond its conclusion.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Dublin, with sessions hosted at iconic venues such as the Epic Museum, The Convention Centre Dublin, or Trinity College, the forum reaffirmed the unparalleled value of face-to-face gatherings. Delegates engaged in peer-to-peer exchanges and live knowledge-sharing, demonstrating that in-person events remain irreplaceable for fostering trust and meaningful dialogue.
By creating a space where associations felt safe to interact and discuss freely, BestCities underscored its commitment to building inclusive communities. As the forum concluded, it was clear that this approach remains pivotal for driving collaboration and shaping a more connected and equitable future.
The next BestCities Global Forum will take place early February 2026 in Guadalajara, Mexico.