What if the challenges we face in events are actually opportunities to rethink how we design them?
This was at the heart of the “Event Design Lab: Turning Challenges into Design Opportunities” Micro Lab at PCMA Convening EMEA 2026 in Lisbon.
Representing IAPCO and AFEA Congress, Sissi Lignou, CEO & President of IAPCO and CEO of AFEA Congress, joined Ginevra De Bellis and Asiia Sattarova for an interactive session exploring how intentional event design can respond to real challenges, create greater stakeholder value and strengthen connection, community and belonging. AFEA Congress also attended the event, represented by our colleague Kleopatra Giatsou, Senior Director, Global Business Development & Strategy.
With practical insights, case studies and hands-on exercises, the session offered a different perspective on event design: not simply as a way of shaping an experience, but as a strategic tool for addressing challenges and creating meaningful outcomes.
A valuable conversation at a key industry gathering, and an opportunity to contribute to the ideas shaping the future of business events.
