The 2025 AIPC Future Shapers programme has begun, bringing together another globally diverse group of emerging leaders in convention centre management. Over the next eight months, participants will engage in a high-impact leadership development programme combining expert-led masterclasses, collaborative industry challenges, and strategic business case presentations. The programme is designed to accelerate professional growth and empower participants to shape the future of the global meetings industry.
AIPC president, Julianne Jammers, said the programme “equips the next generation of leaders with the skills and mindset to think boldly and act collectively for the betterment of our industry. “Each year’s cohort builds on the legacy of those before them, creating tangible solutions and lasting impact across our global network.”
The participants, representing venues from across the world, including: Calgary Telus Centre, Oman CEC, Hungexpo, ICC Sydney, Dubai World Trade Centre, Edinburgh ICC, Vienna Congress Centre and KDMA.
AIPC CEO Sven Bossu added that this fifth edition of the programme will continue to focus on developing the leadership capabilities needed to navigate the changing landscape of convention centre management. “Our Future Shapers are challenged to think like CEOs – to approach every issue strategically, creatively, and with a deep sense of purpose. Their ideas often become lasting legacies for our industry,” he said.
The Future Shapers program comprises three main components:
Stage One – Masterclasses: A series of expert-led sessions designed to build leadership, innovation, and collaboration capabilities.
Stage Two – Industry Challenge: Participants work in teams to identify a key industry challenge, design a solution, and develop a business case to be published to the AIPC community.
Stage Three – Challenge Presentation: Teams will pitch their ideas to global venue leaders during the AIPC Annual Conference 2026, where the winning team’s concept may become a live AIPC initiative.