AIME (Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event) will introduce two new industry-led session formats for its 2027 Knowledge Monday programme, with a theme examining how human expertise and technology can work together to improve business events.
“AIMEplify: People, Business and Impact” will guide the opening day at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 15 February. The programme will explore how the industry can build on its strengths as artificial intelligence changes the way events are planned and delivered.
Curated by AIME in collaboration with BEAMexperience founder El Kwang, the day will bring together industry leaders and subject specialists to share ideas and practical approaches for event professionals.
Kwang says the growing use of technology makes human judgement, creativity and experience increasingly valuable. While technology can handle more of the execution, he believes people remain central to turning meetings into meaningful business outcomes.
The morning sessions will focus on people, including motivation, inspiration and team wellbeing. The afternoon will turn to business and impact, examining how technology can support the industry while keeping human expertise at the centre.
Two new formats will give practitioners a greater role in the programme. The Debate will bring clients and suppliers together to discuss an industry-selected topic, while The Pitch will invite event professionals to present ideas for the future of business events.
A new Knowledge Monday Programme Committee is helping shape the topics, speakers and content, drawing on feedback from industry focus groups.
Its members are Ashleigh Cooper of Charter Hall; Darren Chuckry of HK Initiative; Janene Wardrop of Ascot Event Collective; Michelle Sargent of Events Beyond; Petrina Goh of BCD Meetings & Events; and Sarah Markey-Hamm of SMH – Event Industry Consulting.
AIME event director Silke Calder says the programme will combine practical thinking, different perspectives and opportunities for participants to contribute their experience.
Prospective speakers can submit an expression of interest by 15 November, with successful applicants notified by 11 December.
AIME runs from 15–17 February 2027, with organisers expecting more than 800 exhibitors, 1,600 vetted buyers and 25,000 meetings. Knowledge Monday is open to hosted buyers, hosted media and exhibitors, with ticket upgrades available to visitor buyers.
AIME is delivered by Talk2 Media & Events on behalf of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB).
For more information, visit aime.com.au