LAS VEGAS — IMEX America, set for Oct. 7-9, 2025, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, is offering a Future Leaders Forum in partnership with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and MCI.
This free program is designed for students that are entering their final year of a hospitality, event or tourism management course, and takes place on the Wednesday of IMEX America. This year, it is set for Oct. 8.
The forum will offer advice from industry experts, networking opportunities with fellow students and event professionals, and even career opportunities.
Since its launch more than 20 years ago, the event has supported scores of students who have become power players in the events industry.
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Inside the 2025 Edition
The 2025 IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum will be moderated by Christy Renee Stehle, Magnetic Storyteller & Strategist at Ignite Your Business.
“If you look at the market disruption and what the job market is like, it’s been difficult for a while,” Christy explained. “Over half the workforce has anxiety about being replaced by AI. It’s never been more important to teach leadership and communication skills that help future leaders not only figure out what they want to do, but learn how they can succeed despite what happens in the industry or job market … This is the place you need to be to network with others your age who have the same concerns and questions, and connect with mentors that can guide you in the direction you need to go.”
Christy added that she will bring her brand growth expertise to the forum as well.
“Everybody in 2025 has a brand, whether you know it or not,” Christy said. “Students need to understand they are their brand. How they show up in the world, and how they show up digitally, impacts their leadership opportunities. I’m excited to infuse leadership, communication and brand growth throughout the moderation.”
Sessions at the forum include:
- “What You Need to Build Your Business Bedside Manner®” with Mandi Graziano, Vice President Global Accounts, HPN Global, Sales Coach, Facetime Coaching Company, and Podcast Host
- “Speak with Power: Master High-Pressure Conversations with Confidence and Clarity” with Sammi Sadicario, Founder, Voice Experts
- “Ask Me Anything: Finding our Paths into the Events Industry” with Thuy Diep, Senior Meetings & Events Planner, CWT Meetings & Events, Sophie Pink, Digital & Social Media Manager, IMEX Group, and Thomas Whelan, Director of Events – Northeast, Access DMC
The forum will also feature a welcome and icebreaker session, speed networking and a “Meet the Experts” roundtable with numerous high-level professionals.
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