Hitachi Vantra’s global events chief recent discovered the delights of Belfast, possibly ‘the friendliest place on Earth’. David Kolundzija is head of global events for the California-based IT service management corporation and is charged with delivering extraordinary event experiences for the company’s clients in venues across the world.
He was among the corporate event leaders who attended ICEXTRA at ICC Belfast, ahead of the ICEAWARDS in New York this summer and the experience clearly made a deep impression. ICE brings together a community of over a thousand corporate event professionals from some of the biggest national and international companies, charities and brands.
Its activities are aimed at sharing best practice and driving innovation to elevate the global events industry. The January ICEXTRA mini conference in Belfast catalysed much-needed industry peer collaboration and provided a showcase of ICC Belfast for many first-time visitors to the city.
This also gave international corporate event organisers the opportunity to sample the famous ‘Belfast Welcome’. Kolundzija said: “What struck me first when I landed in Belfast was the friendliness – I was overwhelmed with how welcoming everybody was!
“From two or three random taxi drivers asking if I needed help, to the hospitality at the hotel and all the speakers and presentations – it was just so incredibly heartwarming as an experience. I was thinking: this is how to welcome people.
“What truly impressed me was the sense of community in the city – everyone looks out for one another, especially when it comes to tourism. There’s a genuine spirit of collaboration, with locals eager to cross-promote and ensure the entire city thrives. I’ve travelled extensively, but I’ve never felt this kind of welcoming vibe anywhere else. Without a doubt, it’s one of the friendliest places on earth.”
With Belfast’s regional airport less than 10 minutes taxi ride from the venue, the London-based events leader was also surprised at the ease of his commute from Heathrow. Kolundzija said: “The flight was about an hour, so it’s on a par with getting to the other side of London. I think anyone travelling from Scotland, Wales, the north of England or the Midlands, would also look at a map and see the extent of that regional connectivity and how easily you can get to Belfast from all those places.”
Kolundzija was also wowed by the waterfront-based facilities at ICC Belfast. “I was genuinely blown away by the venue – the natural light flooding the space is incredible, and the waterfront location just takes it to another level. It’s rare to find a place that’s not only beautifully designed and spacious but also so light and open.
“Everything feels fresh and new and the hospitality and food and beverage offerings are exceptional. The theatre auditorium was another standout feature. You can immediately sense that this space was designed by people who truly understand the needs of event professionals. It all just flows effortlessly.”
The ethos of ICEXTRA in Belfast was to bring corporate evet industry specialists together to collaborate, share challenges and co-create innovative solutions. Through specialist events networks like ICE, the ICC Belfast team have been working to build relationships and raise the profile of the venue in a competitive space, particularly across Europe.
Kolundzija continued: “The team is making waves to put Belfast on the map for event planners – it truly leaves a lasting impression. Belfast is holding its own against destinations like Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Milan, and emerging German spots like Düsseldorf and Cologne. These are smaller, more accessible cities that offer great value without the hefty price tag of the major hubs.
“Belfast stands out as an affordable yet truly unique option. When we’re planning Tier One in-person event experiences around the world, we’re always searching for destinations that are memorable and special – places where we can craft tailor-made programmes for our clients and guests.
“Part of that process is finding something exclusive and distinctive to the location, and the private Titanic experience the team organised was absolutely phenomenal. It was the perfect choice for delivering something a little out of the ordinary.
“Since visiting Belfast, I’ve brought my suppliers and agency to meet the team as well – ICC Belfast is definitely on our radar now. I’m already looking forward to the next opportunity to go back!”
Photo: Ricky Parker
