By this stage, you might be jaded, be it from too much networking, one too many buzzwords, or some of the delightful excesses Barcelona's tourism industry has to offer. But don't dismiss Thursday talks just because you've conference fatigue (or, dare we suggest it, a hangover no amount of patatas bravas can cure): there are some beauties on the agenda. Here are the ones we're going to make a beeline for. It's a shorter schedule for the wrap-up day, so we've only plucked three. 

For details on what to see on Tuesday, click here, and Wednesday, here. 

Tech Vs Human. The Exciting Future of Events.

When it's on: Thursday, 21st Nov, 09:15 - 09:45, IBTM Main Stage

What they're promising: AI is beginning to dominate the events industry, much to some people's delight, and other's eternal consternation. This chat is designed to discuss the tension between tech and humans, and if AI can be used in a way that feels distinctly human.

Why we're intrigued: AI means different things to different professionals, and seeing it dominate our industry can be quite unnerving. That said, the danger of not adopting new modalities of working is being left behind. As an AI skeptic, we're keen to see what we're missing. We hope to have our minds changed that the rise of the machines is a worrying sign in an industry that's supposed to be about human interactions - or have our prejudices against glorified binary code affirmed. 

The Future of Talent: The IBTM World Trends Report 2024

When it's on: Thursday, 21st Nov, 10:00 - 10:30, IBTM Main Stage

What they're promising: Using data from the comprehensive IBTM World Trends report, this talk will look closer at the issue of finding good employees: global shifts in talent availability, the evolving skills required by event professionals, and strategies for attracting, training, and retaining top talent across the industry, regardless of gender, age, race, or background.

Why we're intrigued: We'll be front-row centre for the Trends Report overview on Tuesday morning, but this granular breakdown on how to find the best talent, and then how to keep them, will be worth a deeper dive into. There are myriad issues, including developing DEI strategies that are enactable and not tokenistic, and also engendering loyalty within an industry known for its high turnover.

Success Under Pressure: Mental Wellness in the Hospitality Industry

When it's on: Thursday, 21st Nov, 11:00 - 11:45, Workplace Revolution

What they're promising: The hospitality industry is fast-paced, demanding, and filled with high expectations. While delivering exceptional guest experiences, it is easy for professionals to overlook their own mental wellness. A 45-minute workshop designed to guide you in maintaining balance and preventing emotional exhaustion in the high-pressure environment of events.

Why we're intrigued: Burnout is real! Setting high standards and working to capacity in an industry that requires a great deal of human interactions, travel, and hospitality can be exhausting, and leave your work-life balance out of joint. We're all ears for a toolkit that will allow us to pursue excellence but not have a cardiac arrest in the process.