The CMP Conclave from a Global Perspective

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I was part of the first group to write the CMP exam in South Africa. To be a Certified Meeting Professional is a relatively new concept in Africa, but it is growing and people are becoming more aware of the meaning of CMP. Up to now we only had CMPs in South Africa, but we will soon have some candidates from Kenya writing the exam. The idea is to have experts from other African countries becoming CMPs because the expertise is there.

When I first heard about the "CMP Conclave," I thought it was quite strange as I had never heard the word in another context that wasn’t to choose a new Pope. Then I saw that, according to the dictionary it also meant "an assembly or gathering, esp. one that has special authority, power, or influence: i.e. a conclave of political leaders." Well, that said it all. As CMPs, we might not want to become popes or political leaders, but we for sure have special authority, power and influence in our industry. And how nice to see so many knowledgeable people gathered together, exchanging ideas!

I was thrilled to be invited by the CIC to attend the CMP Conclave for the first time and to be part of the selected group of international CMPs chosen to participate in a focus group to assist with the development of the 9th Edition of the CIC Manual and the continuing growth of the CMP as a global certification. When I received the details, I wasn’t very sure about the location. I had never heard of Spokane, Washington – how would I get there from South Africa? Well, it took me 29 hours, but what a pleasant surprise when I got there, not only is the place beautiful, but the people are friendly and the hotels and the convention center chosen were something to write home about!

We were a few international CMPs among approximately 240 from all over America. It was great to talk to people from different business areas and places and see how they think, work and play. The exchange of knowledge and information was fantastic, and the variety of topics offered at the various sessions during the event gave everyone something new to take home, not to mention the CPD points for re-certification, obtained from each of the sessions.

Being able to exchange ideas with CMPs from other countries and to learn how they work to make the certification known was of great help. Some of the International CMPs that participated in the focus group shared the experiences they have in their countries, and some of us are up against the same types of obstacles. All of this was discussed and will be taken into consideration by the CIC when finalizing the 9th Edition of the CIC Manual and continuing to grow the CMP as a global certification.

But the Conclave is not only business and work. We had some wonderful social gatherings where we had the opportunity to meet each other in a more relaxed atmosphere, without having to worry about work. All in all, it is an excellent opportunity for CMPs to meet and share their knowledge and experiences and find potential business partners.

Chris Prieto, CMP, is the Regional Representative for Africa.