Conference planning has evolved. While knowledge sharing remains essential, today’s associations are increasingly focused on crafting long-term legacies that extend well beyond the event itself. This insight comes from Emma Bowyer, CEO of ICMS Australasia, in her opinion piece on the transformational benefits of conference legacies.
Two standout examples illustrate this shift:
- IUCN World Parks Congress (Sydney, 2014): Biodiversity leaders convened to produce the “Promise of Sydney,” leading to concrete outcomes like protecting the Great Barrier Reef by integrating Indigenous knowledge, establishing community-managed conservancies in Namibia, and launching Costa Rica’s ecosystem compensation initiative.
- International Union of Crystallography Congress (Melbourne, 2023): Following the congress, 750 crystal model kits were distributed to remote schools—sparking hands-on STEM learning across regions and culminating in a Guinness World Record build involving over 500 students.
Bowyer emphasizes that legacy is a “slow burn”—impact unfolds long after the final session—and requires champions within the host organization to see it through. Notably, it resonates strongly with younger committee members who seek purposeful, outcome-driven events.
For associations, focusing on legacy provides a powerful differentiator. By designing with purpose, creating post-event takeaways, and engaging stakeholders in measurable outcomes, associations not only elevate event relevance—they position themselves as catalysts of positive change. This approach strengthens mission alignment, member satisfaction, and the broader societal footprint of each event.
