Sarah Beth Aubrey PCC, MS, CEO, The Envoy Group
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Excellence. Focus. Impact.
How have you empowered others?
I hope I’ve empowered others by demonstrating that you can and should pivot for success. I’ve always used certain skills—writing and speaking, for example. But in 21 years of owning a consulting business, the clients, output and focus have evolved. One of my favorite ways to empower is through my internship program.
I’ve sponsored interns (paid) every year in business—I’m even on my second generation now with one family! Additionally, at our events, we always involve the local FFA Chapter and invite high school students to attend for free, network and get experience doing introductions or other functions. Young people need to see, touch and feel what potential careers could look like for them. It’s been a great joy to be part of that in my industry.
How do you see the events community evolving?
Gathering is essential to human beings. As we evolve (which is my word of the year, by the way!) events will have to focus on sustainability. Planners should recognize that what got them here may not be what takes them to the next level or what keeps audiences engaged. Managing our footprint as we travel and attend events is an essential balance that is certainly not fully understood. Yet, achieving this will allow events to continue to wow audiences, create incredible experiences and do well by doing good!
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
I genuinely hope that emerging generations can see my journey as an example of tenacity combined with being able to forge a path doing what you love. I grew up in a family of farmers. So, working for yourself was always a present in my early life, yet building a business from scratch was definitely something I learned as I did. Setbacks will happen, but it’s your reaction to those that allow you to turn nearly anything into triumph. Team and trusted partners are necessary for success.
The year I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I feared I would lose my business. But, clients, stakeholders and friends encouraged me and gave me the grace to go through what I had to do to heal. Having those real relationships and seeing the value is never truer than when you are in crisis. I would always encourage young leaders to get out there in person and develop connections that endure.
Renee Black, president and senior meeting planner, planit inc.
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Trailblazer. Visionary. Authentic Leadership.
How have you empowered others?
For 27 years, I have had the most fortunate professional path of providing opportunities for the women who work at planit inc., the company I founded, to be acknowledged leaders in the event industry. My team has a voice at the table either within the walls of our own organization or with our diverse set of clients. Our award-winning agency is collaborative, strategic and does things the right way. We always put people first and we care. It is one of my most proud accomplishments, to grow our all-female event production team into an accomplished, successful and sought-after agency by Top Fortune 100 companies to leading businesses across the U.S.
Read More: Take 5: Collaborating for a Better Planit
How do you see the events community evolving?
I see the events community evolving through a continued investment and commitment to use technology in all facets of meeting and event design. Event processes are being advanced by hotels and venues with building comprehensive meeting planner portals where information is shared and stored. We are all monitoring trends and hot topics, and the commitment to wellness will continue to grow in 2025 and beyond, as I believe so will enhancing the attendee journey through not only wellness but overall safety and comfort while traveling and attending future conferences and events. Inflationary pressures and event scalability are two of the greatest issues we face as an industry and we will all need to navigate the waters of increased costs in F&B, room rates and AV etc.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
My story is one of perseverance and dedication to the events industry while modeling a strong work ethic. Meeting and event life is hard but incredibly rewarding. I recommend our next gen event leaders start with an internship at an agency to learn all facets of the event life cycle. It’s the truest way to find out if event planning and conference management is the path for you. Embracing the hard, lean into serving others and enjoying the fast-paced world of events is key. It’s also critical to remember the purpose of events and our meeting planner “why” we do what we do so others reach their goals and objectives, we manage ROI/ROE and we build community along the way. There is nothing more exciting and challenging that an events career. My 27-year career at planit inc. is a career of purpose, gratitude and love for the events industry as a whole.
Tiffany Chalk, owner and lead event manager, Tiffany Chalk Events
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Elevate. Nurture. Transform
How have you empowered others?
Throughout my career in the events industry, I’ve dedicated myself to empowering entrepreneurs to turn their visions into thriving businesses. By providing comprehensive guidance on planning, implementation and growth strategies, I’ve helped numerous event pros develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed. My approach focuses on practical, hands-on mentorship that transforms theoretical knowledge into actionable business success.
The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing the remarkable evolution of my mentees and students–from their initial steps into entrepreneurship to becoming established industry professionals. Their success stories and sustainable business models reflect the ripple effect of knowledge-sharing in our community. By fostering an environment of continuous learning and support, I’ve contributed to building a stronger, more collaborative events industry where experience and wisdom are freely shared to elevate everyone’s potential.
How do you see the events community evolving?
I see the events industry is moving toward a more immersive and deeply personalized landscape. While technology and AI serve as powerful enablers, the evolution I see is centered on creating transformative, multi-sensory experiences that leave lasting impressions. Events are becoming more intimate and purposeful, with attendees seeking meaningful interactions and authentic engagement. We’re seeing a rise in experiential design that engages all senses–from interactive installations to carefully curated environments that tell stories and create emotional connections.
The integration of technology will enhance these experiences, but won’t overshadow the human element. Small, focused gatherings that facilitate deep connections are gaining prominence alongside large-scale events. Sustainability and social impact are becoming integral to event design, reflecting a growing awareness of our industry’s role in driving positive change. This evolution represents a beautiful balance–using innovative tools to enhance human connection rather than replace it.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
My journey has taught me to make an impact and be in leader in the events industry goes beyond mastering logistics or following trends. It’s about creating lasting impact through empowering others. Future leaders should understand that success isn’t just measured by the events we execute, but by the people we help develop along the way. I’ve learned that being open to continuous learning, embracing change, and maintaining authenticity are crucial for long-term success. One of the most valuable lessons is the importance of building and nurturing a strong community. In our industry, collaboration always yields better results than competition.
Future leaders should focus on developing both their technical skills and their emotional intelligence, understanding that the most memorable events come from a deep understanding of human connection and experience. Most importantly, never underestimate the power of mentorship and knowledge sharing. The relationships you build and the wisdom you pass on create a legacy that extends far beyond any single event or achievement.
Nahid Farhoud CMP, designer, Nahid Global Events
What are the three words that define your legacy?
A multicultural maven with creativity and confidence.
How have you empowered others?
I have played a pivotal role in helping others build their skills and confidence in a career path, encouraging them to do better while providing practical guidance on things like client management, active listening and attention to detail is such a powerful way to empower others. I am not just helping them do their job; I am helping them grow professionally and personally, which is invaluable.
How do you see the events community evolving?
The event community has been undergoing a lot of exciting changes, especially with the rapid development of technology and shifts in audience expectations. Here are a few key ways I see the event community evolving: more destination intimate weddings, creating personalized experiences for guests. Also, sustainability is becoming a core part of event planning.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
Try to adapt and be flexible to changes. Always be able to pivot. Building meaningful relationships with other entrepreneurs in the industry. Be true with your relationships. Continuous learning, being a leader, does not mean to stop learning. Embrace curiosity, stay humble and seek knowledge in all its forms. Whether it’s learning from others, gaining new skills or reflecting on mistakes, growth comes from a commitment to always improve.
Debby Jacobs Felker, founder and president, BUZZ
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Authentic. Innovative. Collaborative.
How have you empowered others?
I strongly believe in the potential of the next generation within our industry. I’m committed to empowering individuals to recognize and embrace their own capabilities, encouraging them to be courageous in pursuing their goals. In my approach, I try to create an environment where people feel supported, inspired and valued—especially the next generation of talent.
A key part of my role involves mentoring and coaching, where I focus on providing guidance while also allowing individuals the space to grow. I love seeing the lightbulb moment when someone gains confidence in their abilities. By actively listening and understanding different perspectives, I ensure that everyone feels heard and respected, which I think is crucial to fostering trust and collaboration.
I believe in giving people the responsibility to make decisions and manage their work, which not only boosts their confidence but also contributes to their professional growth. Delegating tasks and providing opportunities for ownership are integral to how I empower others to thrive in our industry.
How do you see the events community evolving?
I believe the events community is moving away from the traditional concept of ROI (Return on Investment) to a more nuanced and impactful approach centered around ROE (Return on Experience). In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world, it’s no longer just about the financial return or the numbers—it’s about the deeper, emotional and memorable connections that are made. People are seeking meaningful experiences that resonate with them on a personal level, whether it’s through networking, learning or simply being part of a community.
A strong emphasis is now placed on crafting unique and personalized experiences. Attendees no longer want generic or one-size-fits-all events; they want experiences tailored to their individual preferences, interests and needs. This shift calls for a more thoughtful approach to event design, where customization plays a central role. From personalized agendas to curated networking opportunities, the goal is to make every participant feel like the event was created just for them.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
One of the most important lessons future generations of leaders could learn from my journey is the value of following your heart and trusting your instincts. There are going to be obstacles and uncertainties, but if you stay true to your core values and trust your gut, you’ll make decisions that align with both your goals and your personal sense of purpose.
The importance of consistently doing your best and striving to be around others who are doing their best. Surround yourself with a strong, diverse group of people who may have different perspectives from your own, but share the common goal of doing meaningful, creative work.
Additionally, networking has played a significant role in my career. I consider myself a lifelong connector. It’s about taking the time to get to know the people you meet on a deeper level. Building authentic relationships has opened so many doors for me, both professionally and personally. Future leaders should understand that true connections go beyond transactional interactions—they’re about real, meaningful engagement with others. When you prioritize relationships and authenticity, the impact can be much greater than simply collecting business cards.
Dianne Heffernan CMP, CITP, chief events officer, CCE Global Meetings & Incentives
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Impact. Innovation. Connection.
How have you empowered others?
As the co-founder of CCE Global Meetings & Incentives, I have created an environment where my team can thrive. By ensuring no overlapping client events, I prioritize quality, allowing my team to focus on delivering exceptional work. My leadership gives them the confidence and space to grow, innovate and succeed.
My involvement with SITE, in various positions on the SITE Northeast Board of Directors and with Global as the Sourcing Manager, has also positioned me as a mentor and advocate for the next generation of event professionals, helping others build careers in the incentive and meetings industry.
I create inspirational and motivational experiences that reward and energize attendees. Whether it’s a construction association’s incentive trip to Phoenix, a luxury escape to Park City, or an immersive journey through Italy, my events empower people to connect, grow and return home with a renewed sense of purpose.
With my insights and understanding of how travel and incentive programs shape people’s professional and personal lives, and by designing experiences that respect personal time, I empower attendees to embrace rest, reflection and cultural enrichment.
My approach to business is rooted in personal attention and integrity, which empowers both clients and industry partners by fostering trust and prioritizing long-term relationships over short-term gains, thus ensuring that those I work with feel valued, heard and supported.
How do you see the events community evolving?
Attendees now expect highly personalized experiences rather than one-size-fits-all events. The focus is shifting from just entertainment to meaningful, purpose-driven gatherings. Clients want experiences that align with their company values, foster authentic connections and deliver real impact. Incentive travel, for example, is no longer just about luxury but about transformational experiences that inspire and recharge teams.
Technology is streamlining event planning, from AI-driven attendee matchmaking to smart event apps that offer real-time engagement insights. AI tools will likely become even more sophisticated, helping planners curate agendas, manage logistics more efficiently and enhance personalization. However, the balance between tech and human touch will remain critical—automation should never replace relationships.
Sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it’s a must. The industry is evolving to prioritize eco-conscious venues, responsible sourcing and carbon footprint reduction. Clients and attendees are demanding it, and event professionals must continue innovating in sustainable logistics, waste reduction and local impact initiatives.
The pandemic reminded the industry of the power of human connection. Virtual and hybrid options will always have a place, but live events are irreplaceable. The focus will be on creating immersive environments where people can genuinely engage—whether through curated networking, smaller breakout formats or destination-driven incentive trips that foster deep relationships.
For incentive travel, the demand is shifting toward experiential rewards rather than just luxury stays. Groups want hands-on, immersive activities—whether that’s private cooking classes in Italy, glacier trekking in Alaska or exclusive behind-the-scenes access to cultural experiences. The key will be curating moments that attendees can’t get on their own.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
My journey in the events and incentives industry has been one of innovation, relationship-building and delivering exceptional experiences that leave lasting impressions. Future generations of leaders can learn from my approach by embracing both the art and science of experience design, ensuring that events are not only well-executed but deeply meaningful.
One of the defining traits of my career has been my ability to create events that go beyond logistics—they have purpose and strategic intent. Future leaders should recognize that success isn’t just about filling agendas but about curating experiences that inspire, connect and motivate. Every element of an event—location, content, activities—should align with a clear objective, whether that’s fostering leadership growth, strengthening client relationships or rewarding top performers. Be deliberate. Every touchpoint in an event should be meaningful and reinforce the larger goal.
The incentive travel landscape is shifting from luxury for luxury’s sake to immersive, transformative experiences—a trend I strive to champion. My journey has shown me that people remember how an experience made them feel more than the five-star hotel they stayed in. Future leaders must focus on creating once-in-a-lifetime moments that attendees can’t replicate on their own. Think beyond venues. Design experiences that are exclusive, culturally enriching and deeply personal.
My success is rooted in personal relationships and a reputation for delivering excellence. Future generations should understand that in the events industry, trust is everything. Long-term success doesn’t come from just closing deals but from building genuine partnerships with clients, vendors and team members. Treat people right. Prioritize integrity over short-term gains and consistently deliver excellence. Know that your reputation will be your greatest asset.
One of the most inspiring aspects of my journey is my willingness to evolve with the industry—from adapting to new technologies to understanding shifting workforce expectations. Future leaders must be equally curious, adaptable and open to reinvention. The best event professionals never stop learning. Stay ahead of trends, listen to your audience and be fearless in embracing change.
The next generation of leaders can learn from my example that the events industry isn’t just about logistics—it’s about creating moments that inspire, transform and connect people in ways that last a lifetime.
Katie Lopus, founder and president, Klo Marketing
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Authentic. Bold. Connection.
How have you empowered others?
Empowering others is at the core of everything I do as an entrepreneur and mentor. Whether coaching Fortune 100 executives, leading trainings for marketing teams to show up on social media in an authentic and engaging way or mentoring students and early marketers to land their dream job, my mission is simple—equip people with the confidence, tools and strategies to share their stories authentically.
Through customized training, consulting and content strategies, I’ve empowered brands of all sizes to break through the noise and turn social media into a powerful asset. By developing roadmaps, consulting with a strategic approach and providing actionable resources, I ensure businesses not only grow but thrive and are set up for ongoing success.
Speaking at universities from coast to coast and mentoring students who are eager about social media is one of my greatest passions. I’ve had the privilege of empowering future marketing professionals through mentorship calls, resume and portfolio reviews, and sharing industry insights from my decade of experience. I love providing resources that help students gain confidence, refine their skills and take the right steps toward landing their dream jobs or obtaining the promotion they deserve. Seeing their growth and success fuels my passion—empowering the next generation to build meaningful careers and create an impact in a constantly evolving world is incredibly rewarding.
For me, social media isn’t just about flashy campaigns—it’s about genuine connection. I strive to make it a space of creativity and self-expression. By empowering others to embrace their authenticity, I help brands and individuals fuel their own growth, build meaningful relationships and make a lasting impact. When people feel inspired and confident to show up online as their true selves, their success extends beyond just business—it transforms communities and builds meaningful relationships.
How do you see the events community evolving?
The events community is evolving into a more dynamic, experience-driven and digital-first space. Social media has transformed how we connect before, during and after events, making engagement more personal and ongoing rather than just a one-time moment.
Brands and organizers are embracing authentic and compelling storytelling, primarily using platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok to build excitement, build authentic connections and extend the impact of the event beyond the physical attendance. Also, hybrid and virtual experiences are no longer just alternatives—they’re important parts of an inclusive, accessible event strategy.
Attendees now seek more than just information; they’re looking for connection, engagement and authenticity. Successful events will continue to prioritize community-building, leveraging social media to create a place where people feel inspired.
I see the future of events as a blend of technology and human connection—where brands and individuals can share their experiences in real time, creating lasting relationships and meaningful connections that go far beyond the days of the event.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
Future generations of leaders can learn that success isn’t just about high-level strategy—it’s about authenticity, resilience and connection. My journey has shown me that empowering others is the most powerful way to grow, both personally and professionally. Whether mentoring students, coaching executives on personal brand or training marketing teams, I’ve seen firsthand that when people are given the right tools and confidence, they thrive.
The digital landscape will continue to evolve, but the fundamentals remain the same: show up as your true self, embrace creativity and build meaningful relationships through genuine engagement. Social media isn’t just a marketing tool—it’s a space for storytelling, community and impact. Future leaders should prioritize authenticity over perfection and focus on creating value-driven, people-first experiences.
I’ve also learned that challenges—pandemics, economic shifts or industry disruptions—are opportunities to embrace and innovate. Staying adaptable, positive, community-focused and purpose-driven has allowed me to keep growing, even in (many!) times of uncertainty.
The next generation of leaders should embrace social media as more than just a platform—it’s a powerful tool to inspire, engage and lead with intention. By prioritizing connection and empowering others, they’ll build brands, businesses and communities that stand out and leave a true impact.
Ashley Ronkowski, founder & event strategist, Arrange and Engage
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Tenacity. Impact. Connector
How have you empowered others?
I believe in opening doors, pulling up chairs and making space for others to grow. Whether it’s coaching someone through a salary negotiation, advocating for a well-earned raise or mentoring professionals as they develop their skills, I thrive on empowering others. I’m a connector at heart—bringing the right people together, sharing knowledge and helping others see and seize opportunities they might not have recognized on their own. My greatest reward is seeing people I’ve supported thrive in their careers and confidently step into their potential.
How do you see the events community evolving?
The events industry is evolving beyond logistics—it’s about strategy, experience and impact. Companies are prioritizing purposeful, high-touch experiences that go beyond a single moment in time. Personalization, inclusivity and meaningful engagement will define the future, with tech playing a supporting role, not the star. AI and automation will streamline planning, but human connection and storytelling will always be at the core. The best events will be those that feel seamless yet deeply intentional—where every touchpoint fosters connection, learning and business growth. The industry will continue to shift toward outcome-driven experiences that align with company goals, audience needs and long-term community building.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
You define your own path. Hard things will happen—what you do next defines you. I was laid off while nine months pregnant, with two-year-old twins to support, and instead of waiting for an opportunity, I created my own. Twenty days before my daughter was born, I made it official: I launched my business. I turned uncertainty into action and built something I’m proud of.
Grit, resilience and a relentless hunger to learn are what move you forward. You will face obstacles—some expected, some gut-wrenching—but the key is to keep going. Keep learning, keep showing up and keep pushing through. The skills you develop along the way—strategic thinking, adaptability and the ability to navigate uncertainty—will make you an invaluable leader. You can do hard things, and when you do, you’ll come out stronger on the other side.
Lisa Schulteis, founder, event strategist & consultant, ElectraLime Marketing, LLC
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Innovative. Impactful. Strategic.
How have you empowered others?
I empower people by giving them the tools, support and confidence they need to move forward. People ask me why I do what I do, and the answer is simple… I’ve always wanted to help people. It might sound corny, but it’s the truth. From the start of my career in neuropsychology to now, my goal has never changed: to support others, lift them up and give them what they need to succeed.
Whether I’m speaking, teaching, mentoring or just having a conversation, I want people to walk away with something useful, something that helps them in their business, their career or even just in the way they think about a challenge. But it’s not just about strategies and tools. Sometimes, what people need most is someone to listen, to encourage them and to remind them that they’re not in this alone.
That’s how I empower others. If I can help someone move forward, even in a small way, then I’ve done what I set out to do.
How do you see the events community evolving?
The events community is evolving, but at its core, it’s still about human-to-human connection. Events aren’t just about getting people in a room anymore; they’re about creating real engagement, meaningful interactions and experiences that leave a lasting impact.
Technology will continue to enhance events, making them more personalized, accessible and efficient. AI, sentiment analysis and other tools are giving us incredible ways to create more engaging experiences. But no matter how advanced technology gets, nothing replaces the power of face-to-face conversations, shared experiences and real relationships.
To truly elevate events, we need to design for the individual, considering diverse needs, neurodiversity and inclusivity in every aspect of the experience. Attendees should feel seen, valued and engaged, not just as part of a crowd but as individuals with unique perspectives and needs.
Businesses are recognizing that events aren’t just a marketing tactic, but rather a strategic way to build community, drive brand loyalty and create engagement that lasts long after the event is over. Those that integrate thoughtful, human-centered design will create deeper connections and stronger long-term impact.
The future of events isn’t just about numbers. It’s about connection, inclusivity and sustainability. Those who prioritize these elements will be the ones shaping the most valuable, memorable and impactful events.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
Future generations of leaders can learn that success isn’t about having all the answers, but that it’s about being willing to learn, adapt and take action even when the path isn’t clear. Over the past 15 years, I’ve built my business by embracing challenges head-on, figuring things out along the way and always finding a way to make things happen. I keep a sign in my office that says, “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” It’s my daily reminder that believing in yourself is the first step to achieving anything.
I’ve also learned that no one succeeds alone. The support and wisdom of mentors have been invaluable, and I believe in paying that forward by offering guidance, encouragement and a listening ear to those around me.
Above all, leadership is about how you treat people. Respect, fairness and integrity matter. The way you show up for others, whether in business or life, defines your legacy more than any title or accomplishment ever will.
If there’s one thing I hope future leaders take away from my journey, it’s that success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about how you lift others up along the way.
Debbie Weil-Manuma, president, PRA Hawaii
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Integrity. Perseverance. Enjoyment.
Integrity: always do what is right. Treat clients, vendors and co-workers with respect and dignity. Never compromise your beliefs.
Perseverance: never give up. Fight for what is right. Losing is as powerful as winning. Every win or loss is a learning moment.
Enjoyment: love what you do or don’t do it. Be passionate about each project and perform at the highest level. Create a fun environment for your team members and clients. Smiling is powerful and contagious. Live life daily like there is no tomorrow. Always be joyful!
How have you empowered others?
Throughout my career, I have believed in the power of diversity. I have three employees that have shared my journey for over 35 years. One began as my “secretary” and is now director of marketing. Another was an intern in finance and is now director of business development. The third came from a public school and is now director of operations. These people started in very junior positions and are now the backbone of our success. I allowed each of them to grow in their respective roles and today, we are leading the industry in our contributions to Hawaii tourism.
How do you see the events community evolving?
Companies will continue to qualify attendees using different matrixes. Technology will continue to evolve as registration sites improve. Onsite services will be tailored to winners. Events will need to be cutting-edge and not what is expected. The one thing that will not change is relationships. I believe that systems and technology will never replace the value of human relationships. Trust, friendships and performance will always win!
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
Be humble. Listen intently. Don’t be afraid to speak up. No thought is a bad idea. Work hard. Forty hours is sometimes possible but isn’t always realistic. Hard work pays off in dividends. Nothing worthwhile in life is ever easy. There will be highs and lows in your life—embrace both. Learn all aspects of your respective business. I started as a flower lei greeter at the airport while in high school and always volunteered to take the least desirable job. I aligned myself with the movers and shakers in the industry. Take risks—you will lose some and win some. No guts, no glory has always been my “go-to.”
