Hosted at the new Masters Suite at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, the miaList once again shone a spotlight on the exceptional talent, innovation and dedication driving success across the business meetings and events sector.
Alongside inspiring individuals and organisations recognised for their outstanding contributions, ICC Wales took the crown for Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates), while Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre took gold for Venue of the Year (Under 300 Delegates). Other accolades included the inaugural Executive Leader of the Year award, presented to Paul Casement of Brighter for his inspirational leadership and development of the Brighter brand and proposition in the last 12 months.
From bold leadership and game-changing projects to rising stars and dynamic teams, the evening was a true celebration of the creativity, leadership and innovations that continue to drive the UK’s business meetings and events sector forward.
MIA chief executive, Shonali Devereaux, said: “This has been my first miaList Awards ceremony as Chief Executive, and it has been an absolute privilege to celebrate how much passion, dedication and talent there is in our sector. These awards really are the Pride of the Industry.”
“Each of this year’s winners embodies the spirit of excellence and resilience that keeps our industry moving forward, and it is this drive and commitment that will keep our sector on track and thriving. This is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.”
“I would like to extend my thanks to our judges, sponsors and partners for their invaluable support in bringing our annual awards to life. Like our industry, the miaList continues to evolve, and I am already looking forward to celebrating more incredible achievements in 2026.”
miaList nominees were assessed by an expert panel of industry professionals including QEII Centre’s Mark Green, The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s Katie Niland, Jason Gutteridge from Venue Directory, Leopold Marketing’s Leo Lloyd, Charlo Briggs from Universal Live, Sammy Connell from NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union, Jack Marczewski from Northstar Travel Group, PPHE Hotel Group’s Amy Russell, business events and tourism expert Jenny Jensen, Inntel’s Douglas O’Neill, Meet Cambridge’s Andrew Bell, TBA Group’s Richard Bridge, Lynn Hardaker from Cairn Hotel Group and Melanie Cash from Melanie Cash Training & Consultancy.
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