IBTM World 2025: People, Power, and Human Potential

The conversation around the future of events is accelerating, and at its centre are two letters: AI. As technology continues to reshape our industry, how do we harness its power without losing the human element that makes events truly impactful? This year, IBTM World is confronting this question head-on, with a conference programme designed to explore our theme of People. Power. Potential.

We are thrilled to unveil a world-class speaker line-up, beginning with our day one keynote who will set the stage for a series of transformative conversations.

Kicking off the event on Tuesday 18th November is Nathalie Nahai, a behavioural science advisor and renowned expert in technology, marketing, and psychology. Her opening session, ‘The power of human connection and empathy in the age of AI,’ promises to be an essential guide for every event professional.

With headlines dominated by the rise of artificial intelligence, it can be difficult to separate hype from reality. Nathalie will cut through the noise, offering a deep psychological dive into one of the most pressing topics of our time. She will explore the immense power of real connection and what it truly means to leverage AI without sacrificing what makes us human.

Attendees will discover the three types of human empathy and question whether a machine can ever replicate them. The session will unpack the possibilities and perils of this new era, focusing on collaboration, creativity, and the power of real relationships to unlock human potential. It’s a session that will equip you with the insights needed to lead with purpose in a technology-driven world.

The exploration of ‘People Power’ continues with Grace Blakeley, a sharp and passionate voice on the global economy. A former economics commentator for the New Statesman and author of 'Vulture Capitalism', Grace brings a powerful perspective to the stage.

Her talk, 'Capitalism in crisis? Where next for the global economy, the climate, and democracy?’, will offer an incisive look at the major forces shaping our world. For an industry that is a mirror to the global economy, this session will provide critical context and foresight, helping you to position your business for what comes next.

How do you craft experiences that not only capture attention but also build lasting trust and emotional connection? Natalia Talkowska, a six-time TEDx speaker and expert in neuroscience-backed storytelling, has the answer.

In her session, ‘The neuroscience of storytelling for event success: influence, persuasion and unforgettable experiences,’ Natalia will reveal the science behind what makes a narrative compelling. You will learn how stories shape attention, foster trust, and evoke emotion, and gain practical tools to create events that stand out in a competitive market. Prepare to transform your approach to event design by harnessing the fundamental human need for a good story.

The conversation doesn't stop there. Day one is packed with sessions designed to challenge your thinking and provide practical skills.

• Is AI Ready to Take Over Events?
  What happens when robotics meets real intelligence? Join Julius Solaris, founder of Boldpush, as he takes the stage with Ameca, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot. This riveting session will explore the future of events in a way you have never seen before, directly addressing the capabilities and limitations of AI in our industry.

• Different, Diverse, Dynamic: Could This Be the Ultimate Conference Model?
  Dani Wallace, founder of The Big Festoon, will share a powerful case study on building a truly inclusive event. Discover the immense benefits of co-creating content with your community to boost diversity and develop an event with an unparalleled look and feel.

• Young People, Behaviours and Brands
  How are Gen Z and Gen Alpha redefining their identities, and what does it mean for your brand? Lea Karam, a multi-award-winning behavioural scientist, will reveal how these generations are interacting with brands in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. This session is your key to designing experiences that resonate with the audiences of tomorrow.

Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, notes, "This year’s conference programme is one of our strongest yet. With a dynamic line-up of powerful voices from both inside and outside the industry, we have curated a platform designed to motivate, educate, and inspire. Our speakers share one goal: to equip event professionals with the knowledge, fresh thinking, and practical skills they can apply in their everyday work."

Join us at IBTM World to be part of the conversation that will shape the future of business events. This is where you will gain the knowledge and connections to accelerate your future.

ENDS

For all media enquiries, additional comment and request for interview please contact

Lesley Whyte and Emily Stewart at Davies Tanner

Tel: +44 (0)1892 619100

[email protected]

Notes to Editors:

About IBTM

IBTM is a world-leading showcase for the meetings and events industry with a portfolio of events and products offering business solutions across four continents. The portfolio includes IBTM World and IBTM Americas.

IBTM World, the leading global event for the meetings and events industry, is the must-attend three-day event for the worldwide meeting, incentives, conference and events industry. Thousands of meetings and events buyers, suppliers and international trade media visit Fira Barcelona every November for IBTM’s flagship show. 2024 is the 37th anniversary of IBTM World and the 20th year the event has been hosted in Barcelona.

Next event: Tuesday 19 November to Thursday 21 November 2024 at Fira Barcelona

IBTM Americas, the leading event for the meetings and events industry in North America, Latin America, Europe and beyond, is the must-attend two-day event for the region’s meeting, incentives, conference and events industry.

Next event: Wednesday 20 to Thursday 21 August 2025 at Centro Citibanamex in Mexico City.

About RX  

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people.  RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com. 

 
About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.

*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

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