BestCities, the international alliance of destination marketing organisations (DMOs), is opening up its annual forum to non-association professionals for the first time.
Under a theme of ‘Fresh Perspectives’ BestCities is inviting any meeting planner who arranges large international
events that rotate around the world to Vancouver, Canada.
Managing director Lesley Williams, said: “Our focus on ‘fresh perspectives’ will expand the possibilities for
meetings and events to leave a meaningful and lasting impact on their host
cities.”
Delegates to The Global
Forum, 8-11 December, will learn about measuring the impact
of business events and draw insight from projects delivered on the ground in
Vancouver.
During the event, Capilano University’s School of Tourism
Research and Destination Vancouver will share research resulting from a Legacy
Impact Study. This partnership between industry and academia will create a
framework of best practices guiding associations towards planning and executing
sustainable, purpose-driven events that exceed the standard expected by
delegates.
The event will also introduce Buy Social Canada and
Destination Vancouver’s “Guide to Social Procurement in Tourism, Hospitality
and Events”. The document explores the concept of social procurement while
providing best practice examples. As part of the programme, delegates will also
hear from Ocean Wise Seafood on why meeting planners need to consider
sustainable seafood options for events
Other event highlights include an opening night reception at
the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, where guests will learn how to
incorporate local culture into future conferences, and a visit to Grouse
Mountain, including an evening snowshoe through a light installation and dining
at before 1,230 meters.
Williams added, “The Forum offers a perfect excuse to
indulge in a relaxing getaway while gaining new and valuable insights that will
support a successful and positive 2023.”
Register here.
A desire to travel led Holly Patrick to the business meetings and events world and she’s never looked back. Holly takes a particular interest in event sustainability and creating a diverse and inclusive industry. When she’s not working, she can be found rolling skating along Brighton seafront listening to an eclectic playlist, featuring the likes of Patti Smith, Sean Paul, and Arooj Aftab.
