The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) has officially opened applications for the 2026 IAPCO & NZICC Emerging Leaders Programme – APAC, alongside the Jan Tonkin Scholarship. This marks the third edition of a targeted leadership initiative designed to strengthen talent pipelines within the meetings and business events sector across the Asia-Pacific region.
Developed in collaboration with the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) and FIEXPO, the programme is exclusively available to employees of IAPCO member companies based in APAC. It consists of six interactive online sessions scheduled from July to September 2026, covering core competencies such as leadership development, stakeholder management, and financial strategy. Participants will also have the opportunity to compete for the Jan Tonkin Scholarship, which grants attendance at the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly 2027, to be held in Mumbai, India.
Strategic Investment in Workforce Development
Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO, underscored the association's commitment to nurturing future leaders. “Workforce development is one of IAPCO's highest strategic priorities,” he stated. “Investing in people is essential for the long-term sustainability and growth of our industry.” The programme's design reflects a cyclical model of learning and leadership, with past scholarship recipients returning as moderators in subsequent editions, thereby reinforcing a culture of continuous professional growth.
Applications for the 2026 programme are open until 15 July 2026. This initiative aligns with IAPCO's broader strategy to build sustainable leadership pathways and advance professional excellence through education and collaboration. For travel professionals involved in MICE and business events, such programmes are critical in addressing the sector's evolving demands for skilled leadership.
In related industry developments, the St Regis Opens 213-Key Luxury Resort in Costa Mujeres, North of Cancún and the Banyan Tree Opens First European Resort on Restored Fortress Island in Montenegro highlight the ongoing expansion of premium hospitality venues that often host major conferences and incentive travel. Meanwhile, Quark Expeditions Opens Arctic 2028 and Antarctic 2028/29 with Photography Program and Extensions and Ponant Opens Arctic 2028 Bookings with 35+ Far North Expeditions Aboard Four Ships demonstrate the growing appetite for unique event destinations in remote regions.
IAPCO's focus on APAC is particularly timely given the region's rapid recovery and growth in business events. By equipping professionals with advanced leadership skills, the association aims to ensure that member organisations remain competitive and innovative in a dynamic global market.
