Last year, we talked about environmental sustainability of conferences and events. This year, we zoom in on the social aspects and spend a whole day talking about accessible and inclusive events.
What do we mean by accessibility, inclusiveness and diversity? What are the specific challenges in that area for the event and conference sector and how can you overcome them? How do you make your communication more inclusive? These are just some of the questions we will address during this MiFA, together with fascinating speakers from home and abroad. And hopefully with you there too!
Programme
9.00 a.m.: Reception
9.30: Introduction – presentation Krista Bracke
10.00: Keynote by Gabrielle Austen-Browne
What if the word ‘welcome’ meant the same to everyone? DEIBA (Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, Belonging and Accessibilty) expert Gabrielle Austen-Browne, founder of Diversity Alliance – a leading UK event inclusivity consultancy – reveals how small, thoughtful changes create ripples with lasting social impact. This keynote is in English.
10.20: Keynote by Taha Riani – Can I still say that?
Taha Riani is an inclusion expert and a specialist in communication. He has written several books and will deliver a keynote around his book ‘Can I still say that?’. In it, he challenges us about the uncomfortable feeling we experience around inclusion. This session will make you aware of your own biases and defensive reactions.
11.00 a.m.: Coffee break
11.30: Choice of 2 sub-sessions, a workshop and a guided tour:
12.30 pm: Lunch
13.30: Choice of 2 sub-sessions, a workshop and a tour:
‘Women are welcome too’ session
Women and girls today still often experience barriers to carefree and safe movement in public spaces and at events. In this session, we highlight their experience and delve deeper into the barriers they face and how we can eliminate them. Maud Peeters, researcher at the Karel de Grote Hogeschool’s Public Impact research centre, shares recent insights on women’s experiences at events. Lore Cuypers, research coordinator Vital Cities at the Howest, talks about her findings on girls in public spaces. We will conclude with an interactive Q&A.
Moderation: Krista Bracke.
Session ‘The transformative power of events’
Participating in events can also have a great social impact, especially if you are actively involved in the organisation. In this session, Farah Laporte, coordinator of Refu Interim, and Maxi Sellering, Head of International Relations & Development at 3X3 Unites, will speak to explain their inspiring work to you. We will conclude with a discussion and Q&A.
Moderation: Karl Meesters.
Workshop ‘Inclusive communication’
Marketing and inclusion expert Taha Riani will tell you in this workshop how to understand and apply inclusive communication. It will help you take a critical look at your organisation’s communication yourself.
Accessibility tour Concert Hall
We are not at the Concertgebouw in Bruges with this MiFA by chance; in fact, the venue has taken a lot of initiatives to be as accessible as possible. On this tour, you will not only get to know the Concertgebouw better, but will also gain insights into all the accessibility actions taken.
14:30: Coffee break
15.00: Keynote by Lakshmee Lachman-Persad – Disability Pride and Belonging
Lakshmee Lachman-Persad is a diversity & inclusion marketer and the founder of Accessible Travel NYC. She will tell you about disability pride and the importance of a sense of belonging. This keynote is in English.
15:30: Closing remarks by Gabrielle Austen-Browne
Gabrielle Austen-Browne brings a wrap-up of the day and briefs you on key take-aways. This wrap-up will be in English.
15:50: Inspirational wrap-up by Karl Meesters
Karl Meesters is known to the general public for his heartwarming TV programme ‘Niks Te Zien’ where he goes on a sound journey with popular musicians. He also organises, under the name Rien à Voir, concerts for the blind and visually impaired and comes to tell you about it.
16.15: Networking drink
17.15 End
Practical info
Location: Concertgebouw, ‘t Zand 34, 8000 Bruges. You can find more information on accessibility here.
Accessibility: You can find more information on the accessibility of the Concertgebouw here. Do you have specific questions or needs? If so, please contact us.
Accommodation: You will soon find more information about hotels where you can stay at a discounted rate here.
Cost and registration: Registration is €75 including VAT. You can register via the registration form and until 28 November 2024.
Congress Center in Antwerp – Flanders Meeting & Convention Center Antwerp
