Inclusion & diversity culture the key to achieving better business results, claims IBTM World

IBTM World, the show for the global meetings industry, will return 28-30 November at Fira Barcelona Gran Via and organisers have revealed the first details of its 2023 conference programme, including a line-up of inspiring speakers and sessions designed to empower event professionals to drive the future of business by embracing and celebrating diversity. Main Stage On the Main Stage, the first keynote speaker, Maria Teixidor, will lead the way with an address on the first day of the show. In her interview entitled, ‘Beyond the Pitch: Maria Teixidor Unveils the Playbook for Leadership, Culture, and Equality at Barcelona FC’, she will share her personal experience as a woman within one of the world’s most renowned men’s football clubs. As a previous member of the Board of Directors of Barcelona FC, and the first woman to hold the position of Board of Directors’ Secretary, she will share insights into the multifaceted world of football leadership, delving into the strategies and values that underpin the creation of a thriving team culture and a devoted fan base. Maria also held responsibility for the growth of the female team at Barcelona and will reveal how she successfully navigated the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry, and share actionable steps for achieving gender equality. Another keynote is Ellie Middleton, an autistic and ADHD speaker, writer and creator. Since being diagnosed with both autism and ADHD at the age of 24, Ellie has gone on to build an audience of almost 400,000 people online, write her first book and work with global brands like Disney, Google, Samsung and LinkedIn on changing the narrative on neurodivergence. Her session, entitled ‘The future of events: neuro inclusion as a channel to cultivating belonging’, will see her join a discussion with representatives from Google and FIRST, about embracing neurodiversity when designing experiences to show how events can truly resonate with all brain types. Continuing the conversation Recognising that not every attendee accesses content in the same way, this year IBTM World has launched Workplace Revolution, a welcoming space where delegates can hold conversations with inspirational figures in a relaxed, campfire-style setting. These figures include CEO of equity, diversity and inclusion consultancy SLS 360, Samantha Stimpson, who will host a practical workshop, entitled “Creating diverse cultures: why, how, when …’ Samantha promises to equip delegates with the knowledge, tools, and strategies they will need to create these cultures within their organisations and will demonstrate how such cultures can drive innovation and boost productivity. Also at Workplace Revolution, will be Richard John, COO at Realise Me Ltd, a specialist events services agency, with his session ‘Diversifying the Workplace: tapping into the potential of those with learning difficulties’. Richard will be joined by representatives from Hilton Birmingham Metropole and The Power of Events, as well as Samantha Stimpson, as they delve into how hiring people with intellectual disability, or those from disenfranchised parts of society, can be a meaningful, powerful and beneficial option for event businesses. Vasyl Zhygalo, IBTM World’s portfolio director, said: “This year’s show is all about illustrating to event professionals their role and influence in shaping business culture. For this culture to thrive, building an environment of inclusivity is essential. This is why we’re delighted to be welcoming such a dynamic range of industry titans to IBTM World 2023.” For more information, visit: https://www.ibtmworld.com/en-gb/whats-on/conference-programme.html#/sessions.