The 20th anniversary edition of the IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum took place on 31 March 2025 at the Golden Tulip Warsaw Centre, bringing together aspiring students and young professionals from across Poland. Organised in partnership with IMEX Group, MPI, and the Student Science Club of Business Tourism “2B”, this prestigious event provided an exceptional platform for knowledge-sharing, professional inspiration, and talent development within the MICE industry.
IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum
The Forum once again affirmed its unique position in Central and Eastern Europe as a gateway for the next generation of meetings professionals to connect with global thought leaders and gain first-hand insight into the industry’s dynamic future.
Education, Insight, and Connection in Warsaw
The day featured a carefully curated programme of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, led by internationally recognised experts:
- Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, spoke on sustainable innovation and the evolving landscape of global events.
- Federico Toja, Regional Director at MPI for Europe, Japan and Latin America, addressed leadership, skills development and international career paths in MICE.
- Alexandra Kunowska, an authority on ESG and education, highlighted best practices in sustainable event planning.
- Nikola Naus, an emerging leader in the sector, shared her journey of innovation and professional growth.
- Mateusz Lewandowski, a hospitality expert, provided insights into strategic partnerships and long-term business development.
The programme also included the candid and motivating Fail Fest panel, a space for speakers to reflect on lessons learned from professional challenges, as well as structured networking sessions, creativity workshops, and wellness-focused activities, including a morning yoga session.
IMEX MPI University Challenge: Empowering the Future
A key highlight of the Forum was the IMEX MPI University Challenge, an international academic competition where students present original event concepts aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Participants demonstrated strategic thinking, creativity, and a strong understanding of the industry’s social and environmental responsibilities.
This year’s Polish final was won by Nuray Hamidli from Vistula University, who will go on to represent Poland in the global finals during IMEX Frankfurt 2025, a significant opportunity to showcase young Polish talent on the international stage.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Industry Leaders
The IMEX-MPI Future Leaders Forum plays a vital role in bridging the gap between academia and industry. It offers invaluable opportunities for students to engage directly with professionals, build meaningful networks, and gain practical insights that support a successful transition into the global MICE workforce.
The 2025 edition once again demonstrated the strength of Poland’s emerging talent and the country’s growing position as an incubator for future leaders in the international meetings and events sector.
Our support
Poland Convention Bureau – Polish Tourism Organisation is proud to support initiatives that strengthen professional education, nurture young talent, and promote Poland as a world-class destination for business events.
Our very own Jarosław Marciuk took part in the event, sharing his expertise in expert-led sessions with young professionals.
Find out more:
- An Award-Winning Evening for Poland at the IMEX Gala Dinner 2025 in Frankfurt
- Eventprofs Creators Lab workshop for 30 students from the Vistula School of Hospitality in Warsaw
- A standout performance at IMEX Frankfurt 2025 featuring the Vistula University Choir
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