The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), which takes place, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) 10-12 February, has revealed a comprehensive 2025 Knowledge Programme agenda. Opening the 2025 show, the theme this year is ‘We Matter!’, and focuses on the global business events industry as a powerful driver of economic growth and innovation.
The programme is curated by BEAMexperience Founder El Kwang in conjunction with an eight-member advisory committee of industry experts from across Asia Pacific. Attendees can choose from 20 breakout presentations across two 60-minute sessions, tailored to develop skills in four key categories: Upskilling, Workplace Management, Industry Matters, and Self-Leadership.
Topics range from the importance of emerging talent in shaping the future of the industry and the impact of consumer experience on event outcomes, to maximising AI-Human synergy and safeguarding creativity in the digital era. The 30 leading industry figures hosting the breakout sessions include Melissa Brown (CEO Australian Business Events Association), Sheila Vijeyarasa (The Brave Leader), Toni Brearley (CEO Australasian Society of Association Executives) and Brooke Byrne (IBM APAC Signature Events).
Two keynote speakers, Gus Balbontin and Dr Kristy Goodwin, will open the day, exploring adaptability, performance and well-being as crucial elements in industry resilience. Drawing from his experience as CTO at Lonely Planet, Balbontin will deliver his keynote ADAPT, presented by ICMI, sharing practical insights on how businesses can stay agile and innovative amid the relentless pace of change.
Dr Goodwin, supported by Ovations!, will present her keynote, Powered-Up Performers: The Neuroscience of Sustainable Peak-Performance in a Digital Age, featuring science-backed strategies to optimise productivity, manage stress, and sustain energy in the high-pressure world of business events and incentives. AIME Event Director Silke Calder says: “We are thrilled to have such inspirational and exciting industry leaders sharing their incredible insights and expertise across a full day of education and professional growth opportunities for attendees.”
Opportunities for education and inspiration continue for all attendees on the following days of AIME, with the Ideas Academy presented by Spice, returning to the show floor. The Ideas Academy is an intimate space providing visitors access to short, thought-provoking panel discussions and sessions on 11 and 12 February.
The Knowledge Programme is included in the hosted buyer package, exhibitors receive two passes, and visitor buyers may upgrade their ticket to attend. For full details, visit: aime.com.au/program
