April 14 2021
By Joyce DiMascio
One of the most successful programs for the Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) has been its networking and educational program for young leaders in the industry.
Now it’s time for younger members of the industry to shrug off their COVID blues and get back to sparkling form at one of the first networking events as we return to live events.
The initiative is supported by a volunteer committee and the group is kicking off a new series of events to enable the industry to “restart and reconnect” with two face-to-face events to be held simultaneously on Wednesday 28 April at 6.00pm in Sydney and Melbourne.
Talk2 Media and Events’ Nikki Witman
Newly appointed Co-Chair of the Young Stars Executive Committee, Talk2 Media and Events’ Nikki Witman said the committee was thrilled to be able to launch in-person events in both Melbourne and Sydney on the same night.
“After a challenging 2020, we are excited to be able to engage with the up-and-coming members of the industry face to face and step out from behind the screen!” she said.
The events are an opportunity to re-connect, share ideas and facilitate conversation in a relaxed environment. Attendees will hear about the new Emerging Leaders strategy, the re-brand and be introduced to the 2021 committee. To help break everyone back into face-to-face communication, a guest speaker in each city will be giving their top tips on how to network effectively.
Since its launch in 2012, the EEAA Young Stars Program has provided a platform for bringing together young industry professionals to meet leaders, to meet each other and to get involved in issues that matter to the industry. It has been generously supported by Members of the Association and Tourism Australia is its Platinum Partner.
Joining Witman as the other Co-Chair of the Young Stars Executive Committee is Amrita Dip of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
“I believe young professionals have so much to offer the event Industry, and I’m looking forward to bringing us together as the next generation,” she said.
MCEC’s Amrita Dip
Witman, a runner up in the the Richard Geddes Young Achiever Award in 2019, is also appreciative of the opportunity the EEAA provides for younger industry talent.
“I am thrilled to be co-chairing the Young Stars Committee… I look forward to continuing to develop a strong community that supports the growth and development of young professionals in the industry.”
The Association has also launched a marketing sub-committee for the Young Stars program, with Lakisha Di Valentino of Diversified Communications appointed to lead it.
Those wishing to join either the Sydney or Melbourne EEAA Emerging Leaders – Restart & Reconnect events on Wednesday April 29 can secure their place via Eventbrite. The Melbourne event will be held at MCEC while the Sydney event will be hosted at ICC Sydney. Tickets to both events are $30 with the event kicking off at 6pm.