MIA New Generation Roundtable
One of our team was looking forward to attending the launch of mia’s (Meetings Industry Association) Next Gen peer-to-peer group last month!
The New Generation Roundtable, held at Hotel Football in Manchester, was set up to champion the next generation of meetings and events professionals.
The group will work to break down barriers for those new to the industry or in entry-level roles who are eager to develop their skills and grow.
Olivia Taylor, our Brighter Account Executive for Venue Find and Events, was in attendance and enjoyed the initial welcome and introductions over a working lunch, before delegates got down to business.
First on the agenda was Off Limits Events’ Martin Stevens who went through his career journey.
His interesting talk got everyone involved and showed how far determination and passion can take you.
Next up was an overview from the Meetings Industry Association.
Olivia said:
“This was really helpful, I didn't know it had been around for so long, they have also had a rebrand recently. It was a great insight into the association, which many people weren't too familiar with. We figured that this is because the same kinds of seniors and names are invited to the usual MIA events, so for us to be invited and recognised meant we could learn about the association.”
That session set things up nicely for the ‘Age is just a number’ session where Olivia revealed everyone did decide age really is just a number!
She said:
“A few of us had stories where a customer or client had been shocked at how young we were (when meeting face to face after talking on either email or phone previously) and we all agreed that our age shouldn't change someone's opinion on how good we are at our jobs. We also feel like our age group can give a different spin on things and can attract a different kind of audience.”
Jess Southworth, Hotel Football’s Director of Sales and Marketing, continued the day with her Career Journey with delegates feeding back that they felt inspired at the way she has worked her way up in the industry and definitely someone they could look up to.
Everyone got the chance to talk about their journey and achievements so far with many revealing they had stumbled into the industry.
But since they had taking up their roles they were determined to work their way up the ladder while outlining their goals and how they want to progress in the industry.
The Meetings Industry Association’s Sandra Eyre continued with her Career Journey before everyone broke off for a discussion.
Oliva added:
“I found this a lot different to usual discussions. Being surrounded and listened to by people that are more my age, made me more confident to speak up and answer questions in front of everyone. It was a great afternoon overall and I felt really lucky to be part of it. It was a great opportunity to be invited to and to be noticed as part of the 'next generation’.”
It sounds like the event was a huge success with plans to make the meetings twice a year, as well as setting up a WhatsApp group to share updates and stories.
Safe to say, we’re looking forward to hearing more from the mia Next Gen crew… watch this space!