The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) have announced a pivotal memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME).
This strategic alliance focuses on enhancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Legacy and Sustainability, and Talent Development and Retention within the Australian business events sector.
Highlights of the different pillars include:
- DEI Initiatives: Sharing case studies, co-publishing a white paper on multiculturalism in the industry, and providing ABEA members access to ICCA’s educational programs.
- Sustainability and Legacy: Advocating the industry’s economic and social impact, initiating cross-regional collaborations, and setting quarterly progress reviews.
- Talent Development: Launching the Emerging Leaders Challenge at AIME 2024 to spotlight and develop future industry leaders, including a scholarship for the ICCASkills certification.
Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said: “We are delighted to work with the Australian Business Events Association team to take strong, practical, and impactful steps to supporting the success of the Australian industry. ICCA brings world-class programmes, connections and experience that we willingly share with our Australian colleagues.“
Effective from 19 February 2024, the MOU sets a foundation for cooperation until December 2026, promising a more inclusive, sustainable, and skilled industry future.
This partnership marks a significant step towards addressing the evolving needs of the business events sector.