It can’t be ignored that it’s been a difficult time for the MICE industry. We’ve all been hit by the impact of this global pandemic, and the ripple effect will continue to be felt for a long time. But in difficult circumstances we show our true colours, and it’s safe to say that our industry has really shone through.
We’ve seen venues transforming themselves into hospitals, we’ve seen hotels homing the homeless and we’ve seen event planners coming together from across the world to support each other through these difficult times. It is these positives that we should be celebrating.
And while everything else seems uncertain, there is one constant: creativity. We are a creative industry. It is the artistic flair of event planners and their ability to innovate that really takes centre-stage at a time like this. So let us continue to recognise those that deserve recognition.
What’s more, it’s the tenth anniversary of the prestigious C&IT Awards, making it an even greater time for winners to be celebrated for their outstanding achievements and creativity over the last year.
Aluminium is usually used to mark such an anniversary, and I can’t think of a more appropriate element right now. It symbolises flexibility, durability and sustainability, essential characteristics of the MICE industry in 2020.
So put forward your most inspiring events, promote the people behind them and join me in celebrating the successes that shouldn’t be overshadowed by difficulty.
Calum Di Lieto, Editor, C&IT Magazine
