Speaking at this morning’s opening press conference for the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), MCB CEO Julia Swanson revealed the guide.
“We’ve seen growing demand, both from our domestic and international clients, and growing interest in Australia’s First Peoples and really looking to us as a convention bureau to provide leadership in bringing these experiences to the forefront and helping create connections between First Peoples and the broader global community,” said Swanson.
“Incorporating Indigenous owned and operated suppliers into the business event program not only celebrates the cultural heritage but positively impacts the social outcomes for our First Peoples’ community.
“Our clients can look to respect local traditions and discover easy ways to increase their social impact outcomes, support their sustainability policy or, for Australian organisations, support their company’s Reconciliation Plan initiatives.”
The guide includes an explanation of what planners need to know if they want to include an Acknowledgement of Country or a Welcome to Country in their event, an Indigenous supplier directory for business events, tips about how to include First Peoples’ culture, art and culinary elements into an event, how MCB is working with First Peoples’ businesses and event itinerary inspiration in Melbourne for how to include Indigenous elements.
During AIME tomorrow and Wednesday, the Melbourne stand will include a variety of Indigenous businesses and installations, including a yarning area, a shield burning demonstration, Aboriginal mindfulness and food, beverage and floristry.
MCB is the owner of AIME.
