ICCALift is ICCA’s reverse mentoring programme, designed to connect emerging professionals in the business events sector with experienced industry leaders. By exchanging knowledge, perspectives, and experiences, both mentors and mentees learn from one another and grow together.

Unlike traditional mentoring, ICCALift embraces a reverse mentoring approach. Emerging professionals share fresh perspectives, digital expertise, and innovative thinking with senior leaders, while benefiting from the experience, guidance, and networks of established industry professionals.

The programme welcomes both mentors and mentees from across the global business events community.

Mentors must:

• Hold a senior position within their organisation.
• Be willing to share their knowledge, experience, and network.
• Commit time to the programme and participant activities.

Mentees must:

• Hold a position below General Manager level.
• Have at least three years of experience in the business events sector.
• Have a clear professional development goal they wish to pursue.

Mentors gain valuable insights from emerging professionals while strengthening their own leadership capabilities. Benefits include:

• Fresh perspectives and innovative thinking
• Enhanced coaching and communication skills
• Expanded professional networks
• Personal fulfilment through supporting future industry leaders

Mentees receive personalised guidance from experienced leaders while contributing their own expertise and perspectives. Benefits include:

• One-to-one support and career guidance
• Leadership and skills development
• Greater confidence and self-awareness
• Access to a global professional network
• Opportunities to share ideas and influence industry thinking

ICCALift runs for eight months, combining one-to-one mentoring, masterclasses, networking opportunities, and industry discussions designed to support meaningful personal and professional growth.

Mentors and mentees typically meet online every two weeks or once a month, depending on their agreed schedule. Participants are also encouraged to attend masterclasses, networking sessions, and programme activities throughout the eight-month journey.

Participants benefit from:

• Personalised one-to-one mentoring sessions
• Two exclusive online masterclasses
• Networking events with fellow participants
• Expert-led industry discussions
• Global exposure through ICCA channels
• Access to the ICCALift alumni community upon completion

Yes. ICCALift brings together professionals from across ICCA’s global community, creating opportunities for international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and cross-cultural learning. Participants may also have the opportunity to connect in person at major industry events such as IMEX Frankfurt and the ICCA Congress.

Applications are submitted through ICCA during the programme’s recruitment period. Once applications close, participants are selected and paired based on their goals, experience, and potential for mutual learning.

Please note: Applications for the current ICCALift cohort are now closed. Keep an eye on ICCA communications and the ICCA website for future application opportunities.