In the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast hosted by Ruud Janssen, Drew Holmgreen, CEO of PPAI, shared his journey from Chief Experience Officer at MPI to leading the 120-year-old association representing the branded merchandise industry. Drew reflected on his transition, emphasizing the importance of impactful conversations in driving change and fostering creativity within the industry.

Drew recounted his first days at PPAI, including the PPAI Expo at Mandalay Bay, a flagship event with 16,000 attendees and net promoter scores of 60 for suppliers and 63 for distributors. The Expo serves as a vital connection point for the association's 15,000 member companies, showcasing innovative branded merchandise and fostering collaboration among suppliers, distributors, and business service providers.

Drawing on his MPI experience, Drew shared lessons from hosting the WEC event during COVID-19, which successfully blended in-person and virtual elements. He highlighted the importance of balancing financial sustainability with delivering exceptional experiences, a principle he applies at PPAI.

The discussion explored branded merchandise's role as a marketing channel, with Drew advocating for its inclusion in campaigns to create lasting emotional connections. He cited examples like Stella Artois' innovative merchandise and Promenade's sustainability efforts, emphasizing the industry's creativity. Branded merch, he noted, offers high ROI and longevity, with items like T-shirts having an average lifespan of seven years.

Drew addressed challenges facing the industry, including tariffs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions, which impact costs and sourcing. He highlighted PPAI's advocacy efforts and the launch of a new learning management system to support members. The association is also exploring AI's potential to enhance efficiency and innovation.

Looking ahead, Drew outlined his vision for PPAI, focusing on fostering a positive staff culture, enhancing member engagement, and repositioning branded merchandise as a vital marketing tool. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations like MPI, AMA, and international associations to unify messaging and drive industry growth.

The session concluded with Drew's optimism for the future, highlighting the importance of creativity, resilience, and strategic planning in navigating challenges and advancing the branded merchandise industry.

Check out the full article and @SnapSight analysis here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/drew-holmgreen-ppai-designtochange-podcast-year-beode/?trackingId=m%2BGUCZONzL7FtWrqQCfSBg%3D%3D

In this episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, Ruud Janssen and Fred Schindler reflected on the inaugural IEEE Clean Tech and Climate Change conference, held in Glasgow in October, which attracted 200 attendees from IEEE’s global membership of over half a million. Fred, the event owner, shared insights into organizing this cross-disciplinary event, designed to embody IEEE’s motto, “Advancing technology for humanity,” by fostering collaboration across technical communities and breaking silos. The opening reception at Glasgow City Chambers featured Bailey Annette Christie reading a poem that emphasized the importance of the next generation, a theme that resonated deeply with Fred, who symbolically referenced his grandson in the closing remarks. The conference’s structure included two days of sessions, panels, and pitch competitions, with the ideation and startup tracks emerging as highlights. Judges faced a tough decision in the startup track, naming two runners-up alongside the winner, showcasing innovative solutions that energized participants. A notable panel on aviation sustainability sparked discussions about clean energy in air travel, while the overlapping EGRID conference in Glasgow presented logistical challenges and collaboration opportunities. Fred acknowledged the difficulties of hybrid event formats, citing technical issues with a remote speaker as a lesson learned. He credited David Stankiewicz and Crystal Edwards for their pivotal roles in program development and event logistics. The discussion emphasized the importance of aligning event destinations with themes, such as Glasgow’s sustainability mission and COP26 legacy, and looked ahead to COP30 in Belem, Brazil. Fred concluded by reflecting on the need for IEEE to enhance its relevance and influence in advancing technology for the benefit of humanity and future generations, underscoring the urgency of addressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration.

On October 24, 2025, Ruud Janssen hosted Julie Wynne, a partner at MLL legal firm in Geneva, on the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast. Recorded at the Novartis Pavilion in Basel, the session explored the transformative power of conversations and the intersection of law, design thinking, and impactful change. Julie shared her journey from hospitality to becoming a leading legal expert in international estate planning, art law, and sustainable economy. As head of MLL’s Sustainable Economy Industry Group, Julie emphasized embedding purpose and impact into organizational DNA through constitutional documents, policies, and contracts, advocating for a holistic approach to governance.

The Event Canvas methodology was highlighted as a tool for designing events that drive change and innovation. Julie discussed how organizations can integrate sustainability and ESG compliance into events, addressing waste reduction, travel emissions, and community engagement. She introduced the concept of nature’s role in decision-making, citing the Unbounding Nature initiative, which explores nature as inspiration, advisor, director, and shareholder. Julie also highlighted the importance of avoiding greenwashing, referencing the EU Green Claims Directive and the Chancery Lane Project’s model climate clauses.

Julie shared her experiences as a change-maker, working with international charities, mission-driven businesses, and NGOs. She recounted her involvement in the Global Alliance for Impact Lawyers, including its recent summit in Mexico, which focused on benefit corporation laws and fostering collaboration between stakeholders from the Global South and North. She also discussed the Projecto Contratos Justos na Amazonia, which promotes fair contracting practices to protect vulnerable parties, such as indigenous communities, in negotiations.

The conversation explored the evolving role of lawyers in designing impactful solutions, with Julie advocating for early collaboration between event designers and legal advisors to align with regulations and values. She emphasized the importance of convening diverse stakeholders to foster innovation and meaningful exchanges, citing examples like Nexus network vegan conferences and community-led projects that promote sustainability and social impact.

The session concluded with a preview of an upcoming breakfast event hosted by MLL in Geneva on November 13, 2025 where Julie and Ruud will explore event design and its role in driving change and impact. This engaging conversation underscored the importance of collaboration, creativity, and purpose in shaping the future of organizations, events, and society.

View the (multilingual) Summary, Key Takaways and IDEA Cloud courtesy of Snapsight: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/cd885ce6-43d6-46b2-b470-6007741eddec/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Here some additional links to points that Julie mentioned:

-       Chancery Lane Project https://chancerylaneproject.org/

-       Global Alliance of Impact Lawyers (GAIL) https://gailnet.org/

-       Bates Wells, https://bateswells.co.uk/

-       Steward-ownership https://purpose-economy.org/en/

-       Purposely, free tool to put purpose at the heart of a business https://www.purposely.org.uk/

-       Legislation Movement of Collective Interest and Benefit Organizations in Latin America (2020) https://www.somoskeidos.com/en/resources/#unlock

-       Purpose-driven companies and the regulation of the Fourth Sector in Latin America https://www.undp.org/latin-america/publications/purpose-driven-companies-and-regulation-fourth-sector-latin-america

-       The Welcome Conference https://www.thewelcomeconference.com/

On October 24, 2025, Ruud Janssen hosted Julie Wynne, a partner at MLL legal firm in Geneva, on the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast. Recorded at the Novartis Pavilion in Basel, the session explored the transformative power of conversations and the intersection of law, design thinking, and impactful change. Julie shared her journey from hospitality to becoming a leading legal expert in international estate planning, art law, and sustainable economy. As head of MLL’s Sustainable Economy Industry Group, Julie emphasized embedding purpose and impact into organizational DNA through constitutional documents, policies, and contracts, advocating for a holistic approach to governance.

The Event Canvas methodology was highlighted as a tool for designing events that drive change and innovation. Julie discussed how organizations can integrate sustainability and ESG compliance into events, addressing waste reduction, travel emissions, and community engagement. She introduced the concept of nature’s role in decision-making, citing the Unbounding Nature initiative, which explores nature as inspiration, advisor, director, and shareholder. Julie also highlighted the importance of avoiding greenwashing, referencing the EU Green Claims Directive and the Chancery Lane Project’s model climate clauses.

Julie shared her experiences as a change-maker, working with international charities, mission-driven businesses, and NGOs. She recounted her involvement in the Global Alliance for Impact Lawyers, including its recent summit in Mexico, which focused on benefit corporation laws and fostering collaboration between stakeholders from the Global South and North. She also discussed the Projecto Contratos Justos na Amazonia, which promotes fair contracting practices to protect vulnerable parties, such as indigenous communities, in negotiations.

The conversation explored the evolving role of lawyers in designing impactful solutions, with Julie advocating for early collaboration between event designers and legal advisors to align with regulations and values. She emphasized the importance of convening diverse stakeholders to foster innovation and meaningful exchanges, citing examples like Nexus network vegan conferences and community-led projects that promote sustainability and social impact.

The session concluded with a preview of an upcoming breakfast event hosted by MLL in Geneva on November 13, 2025 where Julie and Ruud will explore event design and its role in driving change and impact. This engaging conversation underscored the importance of collaboration, creativity, and purpose in shaping the future of organizations, events, and society.

View the (multilingual) Summary, Key Takaways and IDEA Cloud courtesy of Snapsight: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/cd885ce6-43d6-46b2-b470-6007741eddec/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Here some additional links to points that Julie mentioned:

-       Chancery Lane Project https://chancerylaneproject.org/

-       Global Alliance of Impact Lawyers (GAIL) https://gailnet.org/

-       Bates Wells, https://bateswells.co.uk/

-       Steward-ownership https://purpose-economy.org/en/

-       Purposely, free tool to put purpose at the heart of a business https://www.purposely.org.uk/

-       Legislation Movement of Collective Interest and Benefit Organizations in Latin America (2020) https://www.somoskeidos.com/en/resources/#unlock

-       Purpose-driven companies and the regulation of the Fourth Sector in Latin America https://www.undp.org/latin-america/publications/purpose-driven-companies-and-regulation-fourth-sector-latin-america

-       The Welcome Conference https://www.thewelcomeconference.com/

Meet Saamer Mansoor ( linkedin.com/in/saamer ) who from building a Deaf Aware App is now revolutionising the way meeting Transcription and Translation Apps can work without the Internet connectivity on device and nearly no latency. Conference Captioning (https://conferencecaptioning.com ) is ADA-compliant live transcription and instant translations powered by On-Device AI — so your audience never misses a word. PODcast hosts Roel Frissen and Ruud Janssen explore this development in this latest episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast ONstage and BACKstage more at https://designtochange.online

The #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen, featured Saamer Mansoor, founder of BeAware Deaf Assistant, sharing his inspiring journey of innovation. Born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Texas, Saamer studied mechanical engineering at the University of Texas before transitioning to coding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he developed the Deaf Assistant app to address communication barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community caused by mask-wearing. The app transforms smartphones into alerting devices using LED flashes and smartwatch vibrations, gaining global recognition, including features on Y Combinator's Hacker News and Apple’s platform. It is widely used in the Netherlands, Germany, and the United States.

Saamer’s participation in IMEX America, a major event with 17,000 attendees, was transformative. During Smart Monday and the Event Design Certificate (EDC) Level 1 workshop at Marina Bay Sands, he engaged with event designers from over 15 countries, recognizing the need for inclusive event design. Inspired by feedback from George Washington University professors, he expanded the app’s capabilities to include conference captioning. This feature uses on-device AI for real-time captioning and translation in over 25 languages, ensuring ADA compliance with over 95% accuracy and contextual understanding. Unlike competitors, Saamer’s solution eliminates internet dependency, offering unmatched speed and reliability, even for silent seminars.

The session explored accessibility challenges in events, citing CES 2024’s accessibility competition, which lacked basic accommodations. Saamer also shared insights from the PCMA conference in Rotterdam, where the Sign Language Coffee Bar sparked conversations about communication barriers. He emphasized the importance of relationships in the events industry, noting competitors’ aggressive sales tactics, including exclusive multi-year deals.

Saamer’s open-source business model, with code available on GitHub, empowers the deaf community without ads or subscription fees. Revenue is generated through partnerships with organizations serving this community. Looking ahead, Saamer plans to expand his sales team, enhance networking features for classrooms and events, and continue innovating. The podcast concluded with an invitation for Saamer to return next year to reflect on his progress and share updates, while also highlighting the Event Canvas’s 30,000 users and its role in fostering inclusive event design worldwide.

Meet Saamer Mansoor ( linkedin.com/in/saamer ) who from building a Deaf Aware App is now revolutionising the way meeting Transcription and Translation Apps can work without the Internet connectivity on device and nearly no latency. Conference Captioning (https://conferencecaptioning.com ) is ADA-compliant live transcription and instant translations powered by On-Device AI — so your audience never misses a word. PODcast hosts Roel Frissen and Ruud Janssen explore this development in this latest episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast ONstage and BACKstage more at https://designtochange.online

The #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen, featured Saamer Mansoor, founder of BeAware Deaf Assistant, sharing his inspiring journey of innovation. Born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Texas, Saamer studied mechanical engineering at the University of Texas before transitioning to coding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he developed the Deaf Assistant app to address communication barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community caused by mask-wearing. The app transforms smartphones into alerting devices using LED flashes and smartwatch vibrations, gaining global recognition, including features on Y Combinator's Hacker News and Apple’s platform. It is widely used in the Netherlands, Germany, and the United States.

Saamer’s participation in IMEX America, a major event with 17,000 attendees, was transformative. During Smart Monday and the Event Design Certificate (EDC) Level 1 workshop at Marina Bay Sands, he engaged with event designers from over 15 countries, recognizing the need for inclusive event design. Inspired by feedback from George Washington University professors, he expanded the app’s capabilities to include conference captioning. This feature uses on-device AI for real-time captioning and translation in over 25 languages, ensuring ADA compliance with over 95% accuracy and contextual understanding. Unlike competitors, Saamer’s solution eliminates internet dependency, offering unmatched speed and reliability, even for silent seminars.

The session explored accessibility challenges in events, citing CES 2024’s accessibility competition, which lacked basic accommodations. Saamer also shared insights from the PCMA conference in Rotterdam, where the Sign Language Coffee Bar sparked conversations about communication barriers. He emphasized the importance of relationships in the events industry, noting competitors’ aggressive sales tactics, including exclusive multi-year deals.

Saamer’s open-source business model, with code available on GitHub, empowers the deaf community without ads or subscription fees. Revenue is generated through partnerships with organizations serving this community. Looking ahead, Saamer plans to expand his sales team, enhance networking features for classrooms and events, and continue innovating. The podcast concluded with an invitation for Saamer to return next year to reflect on his progress and share updates, while also highlighting the Event Canvas’s 30,000 users and its role in fostering inclusive event design worldwide.

Fred Werner - Chief Engagement Officer at ITU - United Nations https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredericwerner/ in conversation with Host Ruud Janssen

AI in Event Design Conversations

Ruud and Werner discussed their shared history, including attending the International School of Manila and their current roles in event design and technology. They explored the impact of AI on events, with Werner sharing his experience of managing the AI for Good event, which has grown significantly in popularity. Werner highlighted the challenges of dealing with high demand and managing the success of such events. Ruud explained the format of the Design to Change podcast, which features conversations with event designers and owners about embracing change and looking beyond the present. They agreed to start recording the podcast, with Ruud introducing Werner and posing a question about the power of conversation to drive change.

ITU's AI for Good Evolution

Fred discussed the evolution of AI for Good initiatives since 2017, highlighting how the ITU transformed its approach during the pandemic to create an online platform with 55,000 members from 180 countries. He explained how ITU's unique public-private model, involving over 1,000 private members and academic institutions, enables them to convene diverse stakeholders and collaborate with other UN agencies on initiatives like AI for Health, natural disaster management, and food security. The discussion also covered how ITU's adaptability, demonstrated through their rapid response to COVID-19 and subsequent venue changes, has contributed to the growing success of their AI for Good events.

AI in Event Design Conversations

Ruud Janssen and Fred Werner discussed their shared history, including attending the International School of Manila and their current roles in event design and technology. They explored the impact of AI on events, with Werner sharing his experience of managing the AI for Good event, which has grown significantly in popularity. Werner highlighted the challenges of dealing with high demand and managing the success of such events. Ruud explained the format of the Design to Change podcast, which features conversations with event designers and owners about embracing change and looking beyond the present. They agreed to start recording the podcast, with Ruud introducing Werner and posing a question about the power of conversation to drive change.

ITU's AI for Good Evolution

Fred discussed the evolution of AI for Good initiatives since 2017, highlighting how the ITU transformed its approach during the pandemic to create an online platform with 55,000 members from 180 countries. He explained how ITU's unique public-private model, involving over 1,000 private members and academic institutions, enables them to convene diverse stakeholders and collaborate with other UN agencies on initiatives like AI for Health, natural disaster management, and food security. The discussion also covered how ITU's adaptability, demonstrated through their rapid response to COVID-19 and subsequent venue changes, has contributed to the growing success of their AI for Good events.

Check out the ⁨@Snapsightai⁩ takeaways here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/6c676312-1808-4c69-b624-af6e24576bd1/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

In this #DESIGntoCHANGE #PODcast Year +1 Episode, Sharifa Wilkinson M.Ed, CED - Mega Events & Event Management Teaching Professor and Program Lead - FIU - Florida International University shares with podcast host Ruud Janssen her journey on the #HORIZONSofCHANGE a year onward.

Snapsight Key Takeaways & Idea Cloud & Summary = https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/79791165-0d19-41f7-87ff-6af2c3a9f3cc/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Snapsight AI Summary https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/79791165-0d19-41f7-87ff-6af2c3a9f3cc/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Summary

The #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen, featured Sharifa Wilkinson, a teaching professor at Florida International University (FIU) specializing in mega events and event management. Sharifa shared her journey from being a high-performance soccer player to becoming an academic leader, highlighting her transition into teaching and research. Her doctoral studies focus on the relationship between micro and small businesses and mega events, particularly the FIFA World Cup 2026, exploring their expectations and readiness for large-scale opportunities. 

The session celebrated Sharifa’s mentorship and her efforts to connect students with industry opportunities. She recounted her students’ participation in the Super Bowl teammates program, where they gained hands-on experience in event operations, and the South Beach Wine and Food Festival pitch competition, where empathy maps were used to design experiences for younger audiences. Sharifa’s commitment to fostering the next generation of event professionals extends to hosting recruitment events for FIU hospitality students, preparing them for competitive roles in mega events like FIFA. 

Sharifa’s academic contributions include integrating the Event Canvas methodology into her teaching, a globally recognized tool for event design. She reflected on cohort 53 of the Event Design Certificate program, where participants designed the Olympic opening ceremony and explored stakeholder mapping exercises. The unveiling of the Bill Hansen Catering and Events Lab at FIU further exemplifies her dedication to practical learning. This innovative space features mood board walls, floor planning magnets, and lighting setups, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios. 

Sharifa’s personal pursuits, such as her newfound passion for tennis, demonstrate her commitment to continuous growth and exploration. Her upcoming participation in IMEX America includes speaking sessions and visits to booth F416, where the Event Design Collective will showcase case studies and methodologies. Sharifa emphasized the importance of proactive networking, encouraging students to connect with industry leaders and seize opportunities to build meaningful relationships. 

Through her academic, professional, and personal endeavors, Sharifa exemplifies the transformative power of intentionality and mentorship in shaping the future of the event industry. The conversation underscored her vision for creating a pipeline that enables students to transition seamlessly into the workforce, contributing to the social legacy of mega events. Sharifa’s inspiring journey and dedication to education and mentorship continue to leave a lasting impact on her students and the broader event design community.

Snapsight Link English = https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/69f5e7f9-fd27-4daf-a445-70300fcc69d3/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

In this engaging episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, Ruud Janssen hosted Marie-France Watson, Tim Whalen, and Ryan Young, co-founders of The Event, to reflect on its evolution and future. Originally conceived by three MPI chapter presidents from Ottawa, Toronto, and Montreal, The Event has grown into a national gathering for event professionals, now under the stewardship of MPI Meeting Professionals International.

This year’s edition, held in Fredericton, New Brunswick, marked a pivotal moment, showcasing the destination’s charm and proving the concept’s viability, while attracting local planners and fostering Canadian pride.

The curated closing keynote featured the SOLUTION Room℠, a peer-to-peer learning format that empowers attendees to develop actionable takeaways, complemented by the human spectrogram activity, which visualized shared challenges. Participants mailed themselves postcards as reminders of their goals, a design element praised for its ingenuity. Fredericton’s breakout rooms were uniquely branded by destination partners, enhancing the immersive experience.

The MPI Foundation’s involvement and the karaoke with a live band added vibrancy to the event’s atmosphere.

 Marie-France Watson, curator of the previous year, emphasized the importance of maintaining The Event’s rebellious spirit and sandbox for creativity. Tim Whalen likened its growth to his ultramarathon journey, underscoring resilience and adaptability, while Ryan Young celebrated Hilton’s milestone of 200 hotels in Canada, reflecting on the industry’s expansion. The co-founders urged MPI and future host destinations to embrace risk-taking and innovation, commending Fredericton’s success in setting a high standard.

The Event’s transition to MPI ownership has sparked friendly competition among destinations vying to host future editions, signalling its growing national impact.

With its roots in collaboration and its ethos of community-driven design, The Event continues to evolve, inspiring attendees and shaping the future of event planning in Canada. The session concluded with reflections on the power of gathering and the importance of sustaining The Event’s unique identity and purpose.