IBTM World 2021’s Association Program will include a keynote detailing the United Nations Food Systems Summit and a “Presidents Talk” exploring COVID learnings and future challenges, reports the show’s organizer.

Taking place on the first day of the show, which runs from November 30th to December 2nd at Fira Barcelona, the 2021 edition of the Association Program was, for the first time, created with the support of the four main global organizations for association professionals: European Society of Association Executives (ESAE), American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE), and Asia-Pacific Federation of Association Organizations (APFAO), as well as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

The afternoon program will follow three core themes—inspire, exchange and solve—and feature case studies, speeches, and panel sessions from some of the leading organizations in the association sector.

One of the program’s highlights is a special keynote presentation by the Deputy to the Special Envoy for the UN Food Systems Summit 2021 at United Nations, Dr. Martin Frick. In a presentation exclusive to the Association Program, Dr. Frick will detail the legacy and key learnings from the Food Systems Summit, taking place in New York in September.

Another standout session will see the presidents of the ESAE, AfSAE, APFAO and ASAE take the stage for an open discussion on what they’ve learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and future challenges for the industry.

The program will close with association experts presenting solutions and useful tips on four key topics: Technology, facilitation, pricing, and legacy.

“We want to create a unique time and space during the first day of IBTM World where association professionals will be able to connect, exchange ideas with peers and explore the show with new friends and a new mindset,” said Stylianos Filopoulos, curator, Association Knowledge Program, IBTM World. “The program builds on the experience, creativity, and diversity of the speakers and of the audience to showcase and inspire new ways of working.”