ICCALift

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, ICCALift 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.

Application Submission Deadline: 9 October 2026

Apply Now →

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.

Application Submission Deadline: 9 October, 2026

Apply Now →

Mentee Eligibility

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

ICCALift is an eight-month programme.

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!

October 2026: Pairing and Kick-off
- Final selection of participants.
- Mentor-mentee pairings announced.
- Virtual introduction call to set expectations and goals.
November 2026: ICCA Congress Panama
- ICCA Congress Panama 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.
December 2026
- Online Masterclass (topic to be confirmed)
January 2027
- 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.
March 2027
- Online Masterclass (topic to be confirmed)
April 2027
- Closing online session to evaluate the mentorship journey.
- Interactive feedback discussions between mentors and mentees.
- Insights on post-programme growth and future networking opportunities.
May 2027: IMEX Frankfurt
- A final opportunity for those Mentors and Mentees attending the IMEX Frankfurt to meet in person along with the other fellow participants with a special photo opportunity moment to be orchestrated!