Reflections on IMEX 2024: Insights from Zoe Moore, Moore Consulting Agency

Reflections on IMEX 2024: Insights from Zoe Moore, Moore Consulting Agency

*What was the most valuable session or presentation you attended at IMEX?

Since I was more focused on speaking engagements than attending sessions, I relied on insights from MPI Georgia member Allyson Wagner. She highlighted Kevin Coffey’s session, "Smart Risk Mitigation For Small to Mid-Size Meetings," as particularly valuable. It made me think of how integrating safety into Designing Inclusive Experiences with CQ, EQ, & AI, a session co-facilitated by myself and Nick Borelli, could have been powerful. When engaging diverse social identities, it’s essential to understand not only physical safety but also psychological safety.

*Were there any new trends or innovations in the events industry that stood out to you?

Yes! Like Aja Bradley, CEO of Conversate Collective I felt an exciting shift in experiential learning at IMEX through unique activations. In one of her recent post IMEX recaps she mentioned Paintillio’s DIY mural and Shared Studio's life-size video conferencing Portals. These activations invite attendees to connect more deeply. It echoed a recent conversation with Victoria Chance, founder of My Neighbors Voice, on how AI can aid in conflict management, especially during tough conversations where polarizing views emerge.

*Did you make any key connections or partnerships that you’re excited about?

In addition to speaking and teaching an Event DEI Strategist course, I was also there to cultivate connections on behalf of my clients, like Ricardo Hicks of Tech Factory and Nubia Younge of Black in Tulum. Walking the tradeshow floor, I had fruitful discussions with Skift's Editor in Chief, Miguel Neves, Northstar Meetings Group, Executive Editor Michael Shapiro, and Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber Project Manager, Glenton De Kock. These conversations inspired new ideas around measuring DEI impact in events and simplifying supplier diversity topics in the industry.

*What were your biggest takeaways from this year’s IMEX?

Every year, I’m reminded that IMEX is all about connecting, reuniting, and exploring new ideas. Seeing familiar faces hug, laugh, and take selfies felt like a testament to our industry's resilience. This year, my main takeaway is the importance of keeping Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion top-of-mind. We must continually innovate to strengthen cultural competence and emotional intelligence through cross-cultural experiences and dialogue.

*Were there any exhibitors or vendors that particularly impressed you?

The Wheel of Belonging activation by Google XI and Storycraft Lab for The Belonging Playbook launch was truly memorable. Instead of high-tech displays, this activation used simple ribbons in a web, leading participants through themes like Meaning, Feeling, and Magic. The hands-on experience helped me reflect on my own relationship with belonging and allowed me to weave my path alongside colleagues, symbolizing the interconnectedness of our industry.