971 Podcast 

971 is more than just a UAE area code. It's a new ICCA podcast that aims to give you 9 minutes of inspiring conversations during the 7 months leading up to this 1 big event: the ICCA Congress — 20 to 23 October, 2024.

On every episode, we’ll provide essential information about the issues that matter most to meetings and associations professionals. Topics include business trends and growth, technology and innovation, sustainability and environmental impact, and cultural awareness and social impacts.

We’ll also cover updates on our host city, Abu Dhabi, and key business and connectivity updates on the city known as “The Crossroads of Business Opportunity.”

ePISODE 6

11 September 2024

Dr. Kinda Khalaf- Innovation

Dr. Kinda Khalaf, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University, takes the spotlight in the latest episode of the #971Podcast. An advocate of innovation in engineering and medical education, Dr. Kinda shares insights on:  

 The importance of integrating empathy into leadership to inspire and bring out the best in teams.

 The critical role of diversity and connecting with people without judgment. 

 Creating a transparent and authentic work environment that nurtures trust and innovation.

ePISODE 5

31 July 2024

Celine Converset - Legacy & Impact  

Celine Converset, Logistics Officer at IUCN and a confirmed Congress speaker, takes the spotlight in the latest episode of the 971 Podcast. Renowned for her dedication to sustainability and environmental impact, Celine emphasises the tangible nature of legacy and impact. She asserts that meaningful change is achievable when actions are executed correctly. With her extensive experience, Celine sheds light on:

 The long-term benefits for being more intentional about legacy.

The importance of doing proper assessments before, during and after our events. 

Insights on how to implement effective sustainability practices that lead to significant environmental impact.

ePISODE 4

26 June 2024

Professor Ernesto Damiani & Dr. Jorge Dias - Technology  

Professor Ernesto Damiani is a distinguished expert, serving as the Director of the Center for Cyber-Physical Systems at Khalifa University. His extensive research interests include Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cyber-physical systems. Dr. Jorge Dias holds a full professorship at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, coordinating research activities in artificial perception at KUCARS (Khalifa University Center of Autonomous Robotic Systems). In this episode, they discuss:

 Human-Centric AI: The importance of designing AI with a focus on human needs, values, and ethical considerations.

 AI and New Skills: The impact of AI on future job markets and the skills required for the next 20 years. 

ePISODE 3

29 May 2024

Guy Bigwood - Sustainability & Environmental Impacts

Guy Bigwood, a recognised expert in creating regenerative destinations and events, is featured in the third episode of the 971 Podcast. With his experience in consulting services, Guy has helped cities, governments, and the events industry enhance their sustainability programmes. As the founder of the GDS-Index and Chief Changemaker of the Global Destinations Sustainability Movement, Guy shares his invaluable expertise, including: 

   Insights on ICCA's sustainability journey.

  Strategies for change: Abu Dhabi's impact and sustainability strategies for the 63rd ICCA Congress. 

  What delegates can do to contribute to a more sustainable ICCA Congress.

ePISODE 2

24 April 2024

Manuel Rabaté - Culture & Creativity

Manuel Rabaté, Director of the Louvre Abu Dhabi since 2016, oversees all aspects of the museum's operations and activities. Under his leadership, the museum attracted +1M visitors in its initial year, ranking it as the 77th most visited museum globally in 2018. A featured guest on the second episode of the 971 Podcast, Rabaté delves into discussions surrounding creativity and culture and explores how innovation and collaboration are pivotal in fostering success, offering insights on:

   The role of creative vision in the development of cultural institutions.

  Strategies for enhancing visitor engagement and expanding cultural impact.

  Examples of successful collaborative projects that have shaped Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi's premier cultural district.

ePISODE 1

27 March 2024

Julius Solaris - Business & Trends 

Julius Solaris,  an industry influencer, events and media advisor, and founder of events consulting company Boldpush. A keynote speaker at the 63rd Annual ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi, Solaris lends his invaluable expertise to the 971 Podcast with discussion including: 

  Identifying specific trends that are shaping the business world today and offering insights on how these trends can influence growth. 

  Practical advice on leveraging trends for business advantage. 

  Case studies and examples of businesses that have successfully capitalised on current trends. 

   Practical tips for businesses to adapt and thrive.

Upcoming episodes

25 September 2024

Welcome to Abu Dhabi





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