Colombia’s showing in the recent FIEXPO—one of the most important trade fairs for the meetings industry in Latin America—was outstanding, with four international awards recognizing its commitment to sustainability, historic preservation and the development of purpose-driven events.
Bordering Panama on the northwest corner of South America—the only country on the continent with coastlines, and islands, along both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans—Colombia was one of the main highlights of FIEXPO, held June 9–12 at the Costa Rica Convention Center in San Jose, CR.
“These recognitions reflect the coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors, and Colombia’s strong commitment to a sustainable, competitive meetings industry that generates positive impact,” said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia—the country’s tourism promotion organization—in a media announcement. “We are proud to be an active part of an industry that transforms communities and creates opportunities for the country’s development.”
Among the awards received by Colombia were the prize for Most Sustainable Stand and a Special Recognition for its contribution through the Sustainability and Legacy Project, both granted to ProColombia. For the Most Sustainable Stand award, the FIEXPO Latin America evaluation committee highlighted best practices in the design, operation, and management of the exhibition space, valuing specific actions such as the use of eco-friendly and reusable materials, low-energy lighting, content digitization, proper waste separation and participation in the event’s sustainability initiatives, based on the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
Caballero added: “These awards highlight the approach that ProColombia promotes in the meetings industry: a commitment to purpose-driven events that generate tangible legacies in the regions, stimulate economic development across the entire value chain—from local suppliers to large venues—and help position Colombian destinations as responsible, sustainable, and highly competitive locations for conferences and conventions.”
Additionally, María Eugenia Oriani, Meetings Industry Manager at ProColombia and Chair of ICCA Latin America & Caribbean, received two of the event’s top honors: the Sergio Baritussio Latin Award, granted by Eventos Latinoamericanos magazine, which recognizes professionalism and ongoing contribution to the sector; and the FIEXPO Award Conni Ibarra, which honors individuals who make a deep and positive impact on the international events community.
At this year’s trade show, ProColombia led the participation of 30 companies from the sector, including hotels, convention bureaus, tour operators and specialized venues, presenting an innovative offering under the narrative Colombia, the Country of Beauty, reaffirming the nation as an ideal destination for the meetings industry.
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