Empowering the Next Generation Through Events

Events hold power beyond networking and knowledge-sharing. They can ignite careers, nurture untapped talent, and contribute to building fairer, more inclusive industries. Yet, too often, young people, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, find themselves excluded from opportunities in the business events sector.

So, how can event professionals intentionally foster youth engagement, skills development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the next generation?

Here are four focus areas where global industry initiatives show what's possible:

Make Youth Representation Part of Event DNA

Too often, event design decisions are made by senior teams far removed from next-generation realities. Integrating youth voices ensures events stay relevant and future-focused.

For instance, the ICCA Future Leaders Council gives young professionals a seat at the table within the International Congress and Convention Association. This is structured influence, with council members actively shaping ICCA's global direction.

Similarly, programmes like Destinations International's 30 Under 30 not only recognise emerging talent but also immerse them in industry conversations at leadership level, helping set future priorities. These initiatives show how combining visibility with active engagement strengthens both individuals and the industry as a whole.

Invest in Structured Skills Development

Events can go beyond inspiration by directly building skills if intentional programming is in place.

The IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum is a prime example. Hosted at major trade shows such as IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America, this initiative connects university students with event professionals through tailored educational sessions, workshops, and mentoring. By embedding structured learning within established industry platforms, it bridges the gap between study and career.

PCMA's 20 in Their Twenties programme further illustrates this principle: selected young professionals receive leadership coaching, media exposure, and opportunities to contribute content, sharpening both hard and soft skills crucial to long-term success.

Remove Barriers to Access

Talent isn't limited to those who can afford event passes or industry memberships. Addressing financial and systemic barriers is essential to empower the next generation truly.

The Event Apprenticeships UK programme addresses this need directly. It offers paid, structured pathways into the events sector for young people, particularly those who might not follow the traditional university route. By integrating apprenticeships into business event supply chains, organisations can tap into wider talent pools while promoting social mobility.

Events can replicate this approach by offering sponsored passes, clear volunteer pathways, and transparent opportunities for involvement across all levels.

Centre Inclusion in All Aspects of Youth Engagement

It's not enough to engage young professionals; events must also reflect the diversity of the real world. That means building speaker line-ups, leadership programmes, and mentoring schemes that prioritise inclusion across race, gender, disability, and socio-economic background.

The One Young World Summit offers a compelling model: unlike many events, it places young leaders from diverse backgrounds at the heart of global discussions on human rights, sustainability, and innovation. Delegates don't just listen, they lead. That approach is entirely replicable within business events, especially when DEI is seen as integral rather than an add-on.

Why This Matters

By engaging young people now, particularly through events, we build the foundation for industries that are innovative, equitable, and globally competitive.