IFEA 71st Annual Convention & Expo

This session will discuss how meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities can lead to more authentic and inclusive events. Using the annual Canada Together event held in Vancouver, British Columbia as a case study, it shows how collaboration with local First Nations has shaped programming and storytelling for the event.
The session offers practical ways to build respectful relationships and ensure Indigenous voices are meaningfully reflected throughout the planning process.

 
 

This session explores how municipal event teams can move beyond logistics to intentionally design experiences that build culture, strengthen community, and create lasting impact. Using real examples from the City of Mobile, Alabama, attendees will learn how to align strategy, operations, and marketing to deliver meaningful and memorable events. The presentation will highlight cross-department collaboration, vendor coordination, and real-time problem solving that drive successful execution. Attendees will walk away with practical tools for planning, measuring impact, and creating events that attendees will return to year after year. This session is ideal for event professionals looking to elevate their approach from execution to experience.

We’ve all had the thought, “What would they do without me?” But have you actually planned for it? Join me as we explore how to plan your events as if you won’t be there to oversee them. We’ll focus on creating clear processes, empowering your team, and building confidence in their ability to execute. By the end, you’ll have strategies to ensure your events run smoothly—even when you’re not in the room.