The conference, which took place over 17-19 November with over 128 delegates from around the world, was supported by partners and guest speakers such as Future Strategist Michel Mol, Veemal Gungadin, Founder of GEVME, and David Noack Perez, Director of Madrid Convention Bureau.
The event featured one-of-a-kind experimental sessions on transforming events to futureproof models, a hybrid session with both real-life and digital delegates in attendees beaming into Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, and a truly unique ‘virtual tour’ of Madrid – giving delegates a digital taste of city’s stunning landmarks.
This year’s Global Forum looked a little different to previous years, which usually takes place in a partner destination, and sees associations and stakeholders come together for a lively conference of connection, knowledge sharing, and city exploring. This year, the alliance took an experimental risk with their hybrid event format – on the basis that there was never a more important time for the industry to gather, reflect, and prepare for the next chapter.
The event also saw the announcement of BestCities Global Forum Madrid 2021 – hotly anticipated since its postponement this year – which will explore the theme of ‘Inclusion’, and will see international delegates explore the stunning Spanish capital after a long period of limited travel.
Lesley Williams, Managing Director at BestCities, said: “While this may not have been the Global Forum that we were all planning for this year – bringing our partners, associations and guest speakers under one virtual roof inspired a wealth of passion, innovation and forward-thinking for our industry at a time when we’re longing for inspiration.”
“Like Michel’s message on futureproofing models, we wanted to experiment with the aspect of a ‘hybrid event’, which despite its challenges, allowed us to expand our community, engaging regional as well as international associations – making it a fantastic opportunity to pass on legacy and knowledge to the future leaders of our industry.”
46 international associations signed up for the Global Forum, including representatives from International Society On Thrombosis And Haemostasis, International Currency Association, and the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations.
The BestCities Global Forum 2021 will take place on 2-5 September in Madrid, Spain.