I have recently returned from Granada, Spain, where I participated in the EMEC – European Meetings & Events Conference 2017. The conference is organized by MPI – Meeting Professionals International and attracts event professionals from all over the world. Prior to the event I had the privilege to participate in an educational programme for university students called “Future Leaders Forum”. The forum brings students from the industry together to enable networking and encourage students to pursue a career in the meetings and events industry. I was selected to present a fictitious event concept that we were asked to submit before participating in the forum. It was very challenging but also very rewarding and I learned a lot in the process. And I was also delighted with the fact that my idea was one of the three finalists!

The conference was a great success and filled with inspirational key speakers, discussion sessions and networking opportunities. One highlight was a scavenger hunt, were all 400 participant were divided into teams of 10. Each team got an ipad with a map, showing their current location and locations with different tasks they needed to be performed. One task was to take a picture in front of a monument, another to learn to dance flamenco and wine & cheese tasting, with the tasks taking place all over the beautiful city of Granada. This was a great way to explore the city while networking with other attendees in a relaxed environment. 

Being an attendee at EMEC 2017 was a great experience for me and I learned a lot about our industry. What I in particular took with me from Granada is the importance of growing your network, not only when you have your degree and desperately need it, but right now before you’re done at uni.

Janni Kristensen, MSc Events Management student