The prestigious award is supported by IBTM and was presented by IAPCO CEO, Martin Boyle at the Meetings Leadership Network during IBTM World on Monday, 27 November 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. Chrissy Schroder received the award for Abbey Conference and Gemmeke de Jongh and Paul Swain from Visit Flanders Convention Bureau received the award on behalf of their collaborative partner, IFIC.
The winning collaboration was marked by the 23rd International Conference on Integrated Care (ICIC23), held at Flanders Meeting & Convention Center Antwerp, Flanders, from 22-24 May 2023. ICIC23 hybrid conference, blending in-person and virtual participation to accommodate a global audience. It focused on the theme ‘Care in Action: How to Work Together, a Participatory Approach’, bringing together leaders, researchers, clinicians, managers, citizens, patients, and caregivers to discuss integrated health and social care.
The collaboration’s goal was to promote integrated care globally, with the event serving as a pilot legacy project. Impact and Engagement Task Forces were established to foster collaboration and create a community of practice, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the conference. The event showcased innovation in policymaking, inclusivity, real-life experiences and patient involvement.
Evelyne Bardyn, Head of VISITFLANDERS Convention Bureau, commented on the win, “Victory has many fathers; the Romans already knew. But in the case of the IAPCO Collaboration Award 2023, that is the truth. VISITFLANDERS Convention Bureau is honoured to have worked so closely with IFIC, Abbey Conference & Events, and the Flanders Department of Care. Only together could we cross the Rubicon and fulfil the ambitions of the ICIC23 conference: to create a positive long-term impact for all parties involved.”
Nominated by IAPCO members, the IAPCO Driving Excellence Awards are a trio of awards created by IAPCO to recognise excellence within the IAPCO member community and have long been coveted by those who seek acknowledgement for their quality and contribution to the meetings industry by IAPCO.
The IAPCO Collaboration Award recognises outstanding contributions to the meetings industry, celebrating partnerships that go beyond traditional roles, resulting in impactful and innovative conferences
The winning collaboration between Abbey Conference & Events and its collaborators stood out to the judges from six other nominations for its innovative approach, inclusivity and commitment to creating a lasting positive impact.
For more information visit https://www.iapco.org/.