Leading members from the national associations which make up the European Federation of the Associations of PCOs have approved plans for a bold new professional, economic and educational development structure.
Proposals for a European Observatory, developed by Sam van de Kerckhof from the Belgian association of PCOs -BAPCO – were approved following a series of intensive workshop sessions held at EFAPCO’s 2013 General Assembly, which took place in the charismatic Czech capital of Prague.
“The Observatory’s three-pillar construction heralds a hugely active and interactive programme of professional, educational and economic activities which I hope will involve all 14 member countries,” said EFAPCO President Luisa Ahrens Teixeira. “All of this new activity will make for a highly attractive Congress due to take place in Malaga next January.
Van de Kerckhof, was delighted with the positive manner in which members have helped to launch the three-pillar concept. “Focused on Economy, National Organisations and Education the pillars relate to EFAPCO’s main objectives and fit easily within the remits of different directorates within the European Commission.
“We need to be in a position to react promptly as the “voice of the European meetings industry” on the various challenges and developments we all have to live and work with, forecasting risks and developing opportunities. Employment, innovation, creativity and competitiveness should all be central to our thought processes.
“We also plan to evaluate how well we are preparing the next generation for our constantly-evolving profession. The education of future meetings professionals builds bridges towards employment. The Observatory will eventually report on all initiatives being undertaken in terms of professional education.”
Luisa Teixeira added: “Extending EFAPCO’s reach will strengthen our voice, not just within the EU but also with sister organisations like JMIC and with similar associations in other parts of the world,” she said.
Lenka Zlebkova, managing director of the Prague Convention Bureau said: “It was great to meet industry experts from all over Europe. It was the first time in the Federation’s eight-year history that members had met in Prague. I’m convinced the meeting, and in particular the Observatory workshops, has enriched local suppliers who also attended the event. It has given them some new perspectives on the international market and lots of new knowledge from all the networking that took place.”
