ICCA Lift

Learn. Inspire. Flourish. Thrive.

Welcome to ICCA’s new reverse mentoring programme designed to connect rising voices in the business events community with experienced industry leaders.

By flipping the traditional model, ICCA LIFT empowers emerging professionals to share fresh perspectives, digital know-how, and new ways of thinking, while senior leaders gain valuable insights to shape the future of our sector.

At the same time, young professionals gain direct access to industry leaders, expand their global networks, and strengthen their personal development by building confidence, leadership skills, and self-awareness.

This transformative programme fosters leadership, innovation, and international collaboration, equipping young and more experienced leaders with the tools and fresh perspectives to thrive in the business events sector.

Together, mentors and mentees will co-create knowledge, build meaningful connections, and lift each other towards growth and innovation.

Mentors

Thank you for your interest in our mentorship programme! We value your dedication to fostering the professional development of young professionals. As a mentor, you'll experience:

Personal Fulfilment: Share your expertise, experience, and knowledge to contribute to personal and professional growth.

Leadership Development: Enhance leadership skills like coaching, communication, and problem-solving for career advancement.

Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network by connecting with mentors, mentees, and other industry professionals.

Skill Development: Reflect on your skills, identify areas for improvement, and develop new competencies through teaching and guiding others.

Gain Valuable Insights: Get fresh perspectives and new ways of thinking from emerging professionals.

We're excited to learn more about you and embark on this transformative journey together!

Applications are now closed. Stay tuned for the opening of applications for the next cohort, scheduled in March 2026.

Mentor Eligibility

Mentors must hold senior positions in their organisation.

They should be willing and open to share their knowledge and network with mentees.

They should be willing to invest the necessary time to ensure the programme's success.

They should be willing to share their experience in a public forum.

Mentees

Thank you for your interest in our mentorship programme! We're thrilled to have you join us on this journey of professional growth and development. As a mentee, you'll benefit from:

Personalized Guidance: Receive one-on-one support and advice from experienced industry leaders tailored to your career goals and aspirations.
Skill Enhancement: Gain valuable insights, knowledge, and expertise to enhance your skills and capabilities.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with mentors, fellow mentees, and other industry professionals to expand your professional network and explore new opportunities.
Career Advancement: Access resources, guidance, and support to help you navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and advance your career.
Share Valuable Insights: Share your perspectives and new ways of thinking with industry leaders.

We're excited to support you on your journey to success!

Applications are now closed. Stay tuned for the opening of applications for the next cohort, scheduled in March 2026.

Mentee Eligibility

Mentees must be current or past ICCA Future Leader Council (FLC) members or among the eligible candidates who applied for the 2025 – 2027 FLC term.

They must hold a position below General Manager level.
They must have a minimum of 3 years of work experience in the business events sector.
They must have a clear goal to work on with a mentor.
They should be willing to invest the necessary time to ensure the programme's success.
They should be willing to share their experience in a public forum.

Programme

ICCA LIFT is an eight-month programme. The next cohort will run from April to November 2026. Applications will be launched in March 2026.

One-on-One Mentorship: Personalized bi-weekly or monthly online calls. Frequency of calls to be decided by the mentor and mentee.
Two Exclusive Online Masterclasses: Develop leadership, innovation, and essential soft skills, learning from experts.
Networking: Engage in exclusive online events with peers and mentors/mentees.
Industry Discussions: Gain insights from experts on pressing topics.
Global Exposure: Expand your network and gain exposure through ICCA’s global channels.
Community Access: Join the ICCA LIFT alumni network, connecting business events professionals worldwide.

Timeline

One-on-One Mentorship – throughout the programme, mentors and mentees agree upon the frequency of their private bilateral calls (recommendation every two weeks or monthly). In addition to the one-on-one calls, we have an exciting programme for you!

In addition to the one-on-one calls, we have an exciting programme for you!

April 2026: Pairing and Kick-off
- Final selection of participants.
- Mentor-mentee pairings announced.
- Virtual introduction call to set expectations and goals (week commencing 27/10).
May 2026: IMEX Frankfurt
- IMEX Frankfurt 2026 will be an ideal opportunity for those Mentors and Mentees attending to meet in person along with meeting their other fellow participants with a special photo opportunity moment. during the regi-reception taking place on Saturday, 8 November.
June 2026
- Online Masterclass (topic to be confirmed)
July 2026
- Mentee & Mentor Networking & Mid-Programme Check-in
- A dedicated space for mentees and mentors to connect, reflect, and strengthen their global network.
- Facilitated discussions to share experiences, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration across borders.
September 2026
- Online Masterclass (topic to be confirmed)
October 2026
- Closing online session to evaluate the mentorship journey.
- Interactive feedback discussions between mentors and mentees.
- Insights on post-programme growth and future networking opportunities.
November 2026: ICCA Congress
- A final opportunity for those Mentors and Mentees attending the 65th ICCA Congress in Panama to meet in person along with the other fellow participants with a special photo opportunity moment to be orchestrated!