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V O L U M E 4 | ISSUE 3
MARCH 3, 2025
Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s Turkish State Folk Dance Ensemble performed during the opening reception of MPI’s European Meetings & Events Conference at Istanbul’s Rixos Tersane. Credit: Jan Buteijn
MPI’s European Meetings and Events Conference Lands in İstanbul, Türkiye By Todd McElwee
Straddling Europe and Asia, İstanbul has always been a place to meet. Continuing a tradition dating back millennia, MPI hosted its European Meetings and Events Conference (EMEC) in Türkiye’s largest city from February 22–25, with approximately 250 attending the 36th edition of one of the association’s signature events. “We are proud EMEC İstanbul has once again set a new standard for immersive, impactful education in the European events industry,” said Paul Van Deventer, MPI President & CEO. “By integrating experiential learning, hands-on exploration, and innovative session design, we’ve created an event that not only educates but truly transforms how attendees approach their work. As the premier event for European meeting and event professionals, EMEC continues to evolve and inspire, ensuring its place as
Paul Van Deventer, President & CEO, MPI, speaks during EMEC. Credit: Jan Buteijn
a must-attend gathering for industry leaders.” Staged primarily at the İstanbul Lutfi Kirdar International Convention & Exhibition Center, EMEC included an eclectic lineup of keynotes and ed-
ucation, networking, Turkish cultural exhibitions, and hands-on learning journeys taking attendees across the city. A quartet of plenary speakers topped the educational marquee: Filiz Akdede, Global Vice President, 3D Business, HP; Dr. Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu, Vice General Manager, Tourism Operations and Development, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency; Richard Newman, Founder and CEO, UK Body Talk Ltd.; and Nils Roemen, Experience Designer, Experience Experts. Akdede delved into Ai, 3D developments, trends and innovation. In “Pathways to Sustainability: National Sustainable Tourism Program of Türkiye,” Fisunoğlu showcased the nation’s green efforts in the tourism space. Roemen shared how to create events that leave indelible marks with enlightened and effective storytelling Please turn to page 5
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