Join us at IBTM World
28-30 November, 2023

Barcelona, Spain
stand E109

WHAT IS LJUBLJANA TALKS?

A relaxed talk show with captivating guests from the meetings industry unveiling intriguing stories and shaping the future of the meetings industry.

Ljubljana Talks is a collaborative effort in partnership with IBTM World, Ljubljana Tourism, and Kongres Magazine. Moderating these engaging conversations are Gorazd Čad, the Editor-in-chief at Kongres Magazine, and Jan Oršič, the Head of the Convention Bureau at Ljubljana Tourist Board.

Jan Oršič is an accomplished professional with extensive expertise in the tourism industry, particularly in the realm of business travel. Holding a University B.Sc. in Communication, he currently serves as the Head of the Ljubljana Congress Office at Turizem Ljubljana and leads the Convention Bureau at Ljubljana Tourism. Since 2009, his focus has been on the meeting and business travel sector, actively participating in international associations such as ICCA, SITE, and ECM. He strongly believes that meetings, events, and incentives have the potential to shape a better future world.

Martin Boyle serves as the CEO of The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) since April 2019, overseeing its strategic management. With a diverse career spanning decades in the global events and meetings industry, he founded a digital marketing company and specialized in corporate and association conference business across various international roles. Recognized as one of the industry’s most influential figures by Eventex in 2019, Martin believes in the profound impact of events in driving positive change within organizations and communities.

With over a decade of expertise in European Affairs, Jimena is the Communications Director at the European Flavour Association (EFFA). Armed with a journalism degree, she previously held roles at the European Commission, Art Directors Club of Europe, and the European Committee of the Regions, shaping impactful communication strategies throughout her career

Sherrif Karamat, CAE, serves as President and CEO of PCMA and CEMA, leading the world’s premier community for Business Events Strategists. A visionary business architect, he shapes PCMA’s global brands to foster economic, social, and organizational progress. As the 2023 EIC Board Chair, he influences industry standards and sits on boards for Tourism Diversity Matters and the US Travel Association. Karamat is also a key member of the George Washington University’s Leadership Council for its Masters in Tourism Administration program.

Heinin has 20+ years of experience in events industry from different positions including incentive production, international congress project management and sales for the largest venue in Finland. Additionally, she was a local host project management for UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2017. In addition, she at her current role as Senior Advisor for international congresses and meetings for 12 years which has given her a great understanding of different aspects in event organizing.

Aleksandra Maksimović, Director of Montenegro Convention Bureau, is a seasoned Public Relations Manager with a proven track record in leisure, travel, and tourism. Proficient in Event Planning, Management, Tourism, Marketing, and PR, she is a University of Belgrade, Faculty of Philosophy alumna, embodying strong media and communication expertise.

Kadri Karu, the Managing Director at Estonian Convention Bureau, has been an integral part of the bureau since its inception in 2008, taking the helm as Managing Director in 2011. With 24 years of experience in the meetings industry and a background as a professional conference organizer responsible for numerous international congresses, Kadri is a seasoned expert in destination marketing. She is also a lecturer at Tartu University Pärnu College, teaching destination marketing and conference organization.

Dejan Bogdanov, the Managing Partner at Vekol DMC, spearheads innovative MICE experiences in Serbia. Since 2002, as the pioneering licensed DMC in the country, Vekol DMC has redefined business travel by offering comprehensive services—from organizing events and incentives to tailored tours and eco-friendly meetings. Dejan and his team excel in strategy, planning, and top-tier implementation.

Zsuzsa Szégner, Business Development Director at Visit Hungary, harnesses her lifelong passion for travel to lead a remarkable team showcasing Hungary’s beauty worldwide. With diverse hospitality experience, she navigates complexities, prioritizes visitor needs, and fosters collaboration to create exceptional experiences. Zsuzsa’s friendly, empathic communication style builds genuine connections, ensuring flawless execution and contributing to Hungary’s thriving tourism landscape. She invites collaboration and connections to further enrich Hungary’s tourism industry.

Julius Solaris is a leading figure in the event industry, renowned for his influence and impactful contributions. As the founder of Boldpush and successful ventures like EventMB and Showthemes, he’s made a mark in technology-driven events. Acknowledged as a Meetings Industry Influencer, Julius’s groundbreaking research, including 3,000 event reviews and interviews with 15,000 professionals, has reshaped the industry. His reports, downloaded by 300,000 event professionals, and EventMB’s 300,000 monthly readers attest to his wide reach. With over 50,000 attendees at his events and keynotes in 12 countries for over 200,000 people, Julius continues to inspire the event community worldwide.

PREVIOUS EDITIONS:

Ljubljana Talks at IMEX Frankfurt