ACE 2026 was built around Driving Impact — and across the program we heard very different perspectives on what creating impact actually requires.

ICMI was delighted to support AuSAE by bringing three keynote speakers to the program: Milo-Arne Wilkinson, Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM and Candice Harvey.

Milo-Arne Wilkinson brought behavioural science into the conversation, challenging us to think more deeply about people — why they behave the way they do, how we communicate with them and what genuinely influences action.

Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM brought an extraordinary perspective on resilience, inclusion and human potential. His story was a reminder that inclusion is not simply something organisations talk about; it is about removing assumptions and creating environments where people can contribute fully.

Candice Harvey brought the focus back to action. Great ideas, conference notes and good intentions only matter when something changes afterwards. Her message around energy, accountability and being prepared to get uncomfortable was a fitting way to turn learning into momentum.

Three very different voices, but each reinforced the same broader idea: understanding people matters.

The wider ACE program carried many of those same themes.

Julius Solaris challenged the events sector to think about what makes an event genuinely valuable — reminding us that technology can enhance an event, but it cannot replace human connection, conversation and genuine experience.

Then on the final morning, Nat Edwards interviewed Jess Caire, Todd Hacking and Anthony Ryan in a fascinating conversation about Brisbane’s transformation and the road to 2032.

For many in the room, this was one of the real highlights of ACE. The scale of what sits below the surface as Brisbane prepares for 2032 is enormous, but what came through strongly was the alignment between these leaders and the way they are approaching change with both head and heart.

It left a strong sense that Brisbane has the opportunity to deliver something very special — not just for Queensland, but for Australia.

Different people. Different perspectives. Different industries.

And perhaps that was one of the strongest reminders from ACE: some of the most valuable ideas can come from outside your own sector.

That is also one of the opportunities when curating an association conference.

Sometimes the speaker who creates the greatest impact is not the obvious choice. It may be someone who brings a different industry perspective, challenges established thinking or gives delegates a completely new way to look at a familiar problem.

If your association event needs motivation, inspiration or a fresh perspective from outside your industry, contact hello@icmi.com.au.

ICMI can also help curate the right mix of talent across your broader program — from keynote speakers and facilitators to MCs who can keynote, and entertainers who can speak.