Celebrating excellence: 2024 EventsAir Innovation Award winners 

The 2024 Innovation Awards have concluded, leaving us inspired by the remarkable accomplishments of our global community. Across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas, event professionals have showcased the incredible potential of the EventsAir platform. This year’s winners have not only raised the bar for excellence but have also redefined what it means to deliver engaging and innovative events. 

This year’s awards honored innovation, creativity, and leadership across three major categories: 

• Best Use of Technology: Celebrating exceptional integration of EventsAir tools in large-scale events, focusing on creativity, efficiency, and attendee engagement. 

• Rising Star: Recognizing emerging professionals making significant contributions to their organizations and the broader events industry. 

• Innovator of the Year: Honoring transformative leadership and innovation, showcasing individuals who have redefined event excellence. 

From masterful use of technology to recognizing emerging talents, these awards highlight the creativity, resilience, and dedication of event planners around the world. Let’s dive into the standout achievements from each region and honor the winners who are shaping the future of events. 

EMEA: A showcase of innovation 

The EMEA region featured a broad range of winners and commendations, demonstrating how EventsAir enables success across diverse event types 

Best Use of Technology 

Winner: ATPI 

ATPI impressed the judges with their ability to handle the complexity of managing multiple event types using EventsAir. Their innovative workflows streamlined processes across a variety of events, allowing them to deliver seamless experiences for their clients.  

The team’s ability to integrate portals and manage intricate operational details demonstrated their mastery of the platform and a forward-thinking approach to event technology. ATPI’s work serves as a model for efficiency and creativity in the industry. 

Commendations: 

• Global Events: Recognized for their exceptional execution of IOSCO 2024, a project that balanced technical innovation with attendee engagement. 

• F.A.Z Business Media: Honored for the F.A.Z Congress 2024, where meticulous planning and thoughtful application of technology delivered a standout experience. 

Rising Star 

Winner: Helina Turbel, Enginuity 

Helina’s ability to think creatively and use EventsAir to its fullest potential has redefined participant engagement at her organization. Her dedication to professional growth, coupled with her innovative approach to digital engagement, has energized her team and established her as a role model.  

Helina’s contributions, which include designing workflows that simplify complex processes, have earned widespread praise from her peers and clients alike. 

Commendations: 

• Jessica Hippey, University of Aberdeen: Jessica’s resourcefulness and knack for problem-solving have made her an invaluable asset to her team. Her work stands out for its clarity and professionalism. 

• Sophie Acker, F.A.Z Business Media: Known for her meticulous project management, Sophie’s dedication and results-driven approach continue to impress her colleagues and clients. 

Innovator of the Year 

Winner: Nikki Pearce, University of Aberdeen 

Nikki’s achievement in orchestrating a complex, multi-day event is nothing short of extraordinary. Managing a three-day conference, 12 workshops, seven field trips, and sightseeing tours through EventsAir, Nikki displayed remarkable leadership and technical skill.  

Beyond her logistical expertise, Nikki is also a mentor, shaping the next generation of event planners. Her passion for the industry shines through in everything she does, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award. 

Commendations: 

• Cedric Cholley, Kuoni Tumlare Congress: Cedric’s innovative solutions as a web developer have greatly enhanced his team’s ability to deliver polished and engaging events. 

• Stefanie Reib, F.A.Z Business Media: Stefanie’s contributions as a senior project manager have consistently elevated the quality and impact of her organization’s events. 

APAC: Raising the bar 

APAC saw an impressive number of submissions this year, with winners showcasing the ability to solve challenges and deliver outstanding results. 

Best Use of Technology 

Winner: Wallfly 

Wallfly’s work on the ANZCA ASM 2024 redefined what’s possible for a large-scale event. With over 3,400 delegates and 350 presentations spread over six days, Wallfly delivered an event that was as complex as it was seamless. Their ability to integrate EventsAir and API functionalities allowed them to streamline both pre-event planning and onsite execution. 

The team’s thoughtful use of technology ensured smooth registration, adaptable workflows, and efficient on-the-ground solutions. The judges were particularly impressed by Wallfly’s forward-looking plans to incorporate AI into their processes, signaling their commitment to staying ahead of the curve. 

Commendations: 

• AirForce Events: The Air & Space Power Conference 2024 demonstrated how strategic planning and technical expertise can create a truly engaging attendee experience. 

• PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy: Their innovative approach to the 17th Papua New Guinea Resources and Energy Investment Conference showcased an exceptional understanding of audience needs and event dynamics. 

Rising Star 

Winner: Sita Carolina, AA&P Events 

Sita has emerged as a leader in event technology, demonstrating a mastery of EventsAir that has directly benefited her clients and team. Known for her creativity and problem-solving, Sita has successfully led the charge in automating workflows, managing registrations, and creating immersive virtual experiences.  

Her leadership extends beyond her organization, as she actively contributes to the broader EventsAir community and serves as a certified trainer in her region (and the only certified trainer in all of the Northern Territory!).  

Commendations: 

• Megan O’Rorke, Audiology Australia: Megan’s work exemplifies precision and innovation, ensuring her events consistently exceed expectations. 

• Gabby Boshier, Meetings and Events Australia: Gabby’s ability to manage high-pressure situations with confidence and expertise has earned her recognition across the industry. 

Innovator of the Year 

Winner: Jess Glass, University of Queensland 

Jess’s leadership and innovation during the UQ Open Day have set a new standard for university events. Managing thousands of attendees and a host of stakeholders, Jess delivered a flawlessly executed event that was both engaging and efficient. Her ability to integrate creativity with operational excellence has made her an industry trailblazer.  

Jess’s dedication to sharing her expertise and mentoring others further underscores her impact on the events industry. 

Commendation: 

• Grant Whitehead, Wallfly: Grant’s contributions to his team’s success have been instrumental in delivering high-impact events. 

Americas: Excellence in action 

While the Americas region featured a single honoree this year, the innovation and creativity on display were nothing short of remarkable. 

Best Use of Technology 

Winner: International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) 

The IASLC team demonstrated unparalleled creativity in designing a technology-driven event experience. From immersive 3D portals to personalized branding and high-quality livestreaming, every detail was meticulously planned to create a seamless experience for attendees. Their strategic approach to simplifying complex workflows while delivering impactful engagement highlights their expertise and passion for excellence. 

Full List of 2024 Innovation Award Winners and Commendations 

EMEA 

Best Use of Technology 

Winner: ATPI  

Commendations: Global Events, F.A.Z Business Media 

Rising Star 

Winner: Helina Turbel  

Commendations: Jessica Hippey, Sophie Acker 

Innovator of the Year 

Winner: Nikki Pearce 

Commendations: Cedric Cholley, Stefanie Reib 

APAC 

Best Use of Technology 

Winner: Wallfly 

Commendations: AirForce Events, PNG Chamber of Energy and Resources 

Rising Star 

Winner: Sita Carolina 

Commendations: Megan O’Rorke, Gabby Boshier 

Innovator of the Year 

Winner: Jess Glass  

Commendation: Grant Whitehead 

Americas 

Best Use of Technology 

Winner: International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC)  

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As we reflect on this year’s awards, one thing is clear: innovation in event management is alive and thriving. Congratulations to all the winners and commendations for their outstanding contributions to the EventsAir community.  

We look forward to celebrating even more groundbreaking achievements in 2025!