The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) has prioritized workforce development at its 2026 Annual Meeting & General Assembly in Athens by launching the Emerging Leader Awards. This initiative includes a new regional award for Latin America, emphasizing present leadership responsibilities instead of future potential.

The change in terminology signifies IAPCO’s commitment to recognizing leadership as an active role. “Language shapes culture,” noted Sissi Lignou, the President of IAPCO. “Recognizing them as ‘Emerging Leaders’ acknowledges the leadership already taking place across our organizations today.”

A significant highlight is the introduction of the IAPCO & FIEXPO Jorge Castex Scholarship Programme for Latin America, sponsored by FIEXPO. This program, honoring Jorge Castex, aims to enhance leadership recognition in a strategically important region. Arnaldo Nardone, Director of FIEXPO Exhibitions Group, expressed pride in supporting this initiative to strengthen the global meetings industry.

The 2026 IAPCO & NZICC Jan Tonkin Scholarship was awarded to Shimal Jaykant from Malaysia for her leadership in APAC congress delivery. The Emerging Leader Award, formerly known as the IAPCO Hero Award, was presented to Cheryl Choy from Singapore for her ‘Dual Role Framework’ enhancing operational efficiency.

Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO, emphasized the necessity of integrating Emerging Leaders into governance to secure the long-term sustainability of the global meetings industry.

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This story was adapted from original press material using AI tools.