Kongres Magazine talked to Jaka Gornik, founder and CEO at Confiva, who was recently named among the Most Influential Meeting Service Providers in 2021. Jaka shared his greatest achievements in the meetings industry so far and expressed his opinion on the future of events.
Q1: What does the title of the industry’s most influential individual in the region mean to you?
The last two years were really challenging, especially as we needed to pivot to the digital part of events. Being recognized as one of the most influential individuals means that the industry and its professionals approved that we are walking on the right path – the digitalization of events, leading the whole industry to its recovery.
Q2: Can we say that you are a newcomer in the meetings industry? What inspires you?
I have been a part of the industry since the early 2000s, and I am still here as events represent my passion. I love to meet new people with different backgrounds, which makes me a better event industry professional.
Q3: You have contributed a lot to the development of the meetings industry. What would you say was your greatest achievement so far?
I could say that I always dared to try new things, so my events always stood out in some way. I was doing both sides, so making B2B events for my clients but also have some entertainment events where I invested my own funds and could show off some of the ideas which could later be sold to our partners… But my biggest achievement so far is my team. They are following me everywhere, so I guess I am doing something right. The company is only as strong as the weakest link, so I am putting my energy into educating my team as we want to be known as a team of professionals with a passion for details. That goes for all: live, virtual or hybrid types of events!
Q4: What changes would you like to see in the meetings industry in 2022?
We have seen what Corona did to our industry in those two years. I wish that everyone can be prepared for the new era of events, seeing digitalization as an added value to in-person events. That is, in my opinion, a perfect formula to grow in the next few years.
Q5: What is your prediction for the future of meetings?
I am watching CAGR for both the live and online event industry, and my prediction is that events in any form will become even more important in the marketing role. Digital events are at the beginning of the learning curve, where lots of efforts are placed on the side of engagement and networking. I believe that will be strongly upgraded in the near future as lots of clients are striving to build online communities.
Q6: What is your advice for young colleagues making their way in the meetings industry?
Try not to perceive your work as a job, and try to enjoy it as much as you can. If you have an opportunity to gain some new knowledge from the seniors, stay at work for additional hours. Knowledge and passion will make you a wanted person in the industry!
“Digital events are at the beginning of the learning curve, where lots of efforts are placed on the side of engagement and networking.”
Q7: Were you more exposed in public after being placed on our list? Do you see this as an opportunity to reinforce the prominence of our industry in general?
I became a public speaker during the last two years as I was sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm about digitalization. Being regularly present in your magazine is definitely a good thing that helped me join forces with certain individuals.
Q8: What are your thoughts on our selection of the influencers?
I do not know them all personally, so it is difficult to judge. I am sure your team did a great job to find the best influencers at this time.
Q9: In your opinion, who deserves the title of the TOP influencer if you had to choose from the finalists yourself?
I let this kind of things to you. We will do our best to raise our presence all around Europe by helping to solve our partners’ pains.
