The theme for the Knowledge Program – attended largely by hosted buyers, exhibitors and visitor buyers who elect to upgrade – is “The 4Ps of GLOCALISATION”, a nod to the duality of global insights and local nuances desired by AIME’s local and international audience.
Talk2 Media and Events, which organises AIME on behalf of its owner, Melbourne Convention Bureau, has also revealed two headline speakers for the Knowledge Program.
Former chief marketing officer for Tourism Australia, Lisa Ronson, who also has senior leadership experience with the likes of Coles, Westpac, David Jones and Visa, will deliver one of keynotes, while Sebastian Terry, author, TV host and founder of the 100 Things movement, which encourages people to write a (reasonably long) list of things they want to achieve in their lifetime, is the other keynote announced so far.
Ronson comes from Saxton Speakers, while Terry is represented by ICMI Speakers & Entertainers.
Other speakers on the to-be-released Knowledge Program will be drawn from the business events industry and other professional backgrounds.
The breakout sessions during the program will look at balancing the global-local mindset with four common business focuses – people, planet, purpose and profit.
“We reflected on the feedback from last year’s program and are excited to work with El Kwang of BEAM and a passionate Advisory Committee to carefully curate a program that aims to spotlight luminaries and trailblazers, fostering an environment where participants can select the specific ‘P’ that resonates most profoundly with their unique business objectives and professional growth,” said Silke Calder, AIME’s event director.
Geelong’s forthcoming convention and exhibition centre – Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre – will sponsor a food and beverage showcase at the Knowledge Program.
The new Geelong venue, due to open in 2026 will be managed by the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) team, where AIME is held.
“As the future operators of Nyaal Banyul, the centre will embody this year’s theme of ‘Glocalisation’, highlighting the rich offerings of the region and providing unique experiences for attendees, while incorporating global insights and trends,” said MCEC chief executive, Natalie O’Brien AM.
AIME will take place February 19-21 at MCEC. The Knowledge Program will run on February 19, ahead of the official Welcome Event that evening.
