As part of its forthcoming "Power of 10" research study, the IMEX Group has launched a new essay competition for students around the world, who've been invited to submit their visions for the future of meetings in exchange for a free trip to IMEX in Frankfurt this May 22-24, it announced yesterday.
Being conducted by Fast Future Research in honor of IMEX in Frankfurt's 10th anniversary, the "Power of 10" research study will attempt to "shed new light on what the next 10 years might hold in store" for meetings and events. As part of that effort, the IMEX essay competition will encourage students to submit either their ideas and visions for how the meetings industry will evolve over the next 10 years or a real-life case study detailing how a particular destination is preparing in an innovative way for the next decade.
According to IMEX, two winning submissions will be chosen from all the entrants. Their prize will include: free travel to IMEX in Frankfurt, two nights' accommodation, a "Certificate of Special Achievement" from IMEX Group Chairman Ray Bloom, coverage in the show's daily paper and participation in the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum during the show, where they'll present a summary of their findings. Their winning submissions also will be published on the IMEX in Frankfurt website and shared via social media. Finally, the 10 best entries will also be published in the final "Power of 10" research report, the findings of which will be presented during the show.
"This is a really exciting opportunity in a landmark year for two students to really make their mark on the industry and to get noticed by prospective employers and industry leaders," said IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer. "We are looking for ideas, visions and case studies that are going to get the industry talking and that demonstrate strong, clear communication skills. That means showing imagination, flair and enthusiasm for everything the global meetings industry stands for, and a sense of — or desire to — influence its future direction. Given the tough economic climate we are all working in, this is a great chance for a couple of students to take the spotlight and stand out from the crowd. I urge any students who are serious about pursuing a career in the meetings, events or incentive travel sectors to enter. By doing so they will get a tremendous chance to put themselves ahead of the pack and accelerate their careers."
The competition is open to full- and part-time students over the age of 18 studying at an academic institution anywhere in the world. All essays must be presented in English only and should be no more than 1,500 words long. Entries must be received by midnight GMT on March 9, 2012. Winning entries will be announced by March 30, 2012. For full details and conditions of entry, visit www.imex-frankfurt.com/studentcasestudy.html.