Coming to Philly Jan. 11-14, PCMA’s Convening Leaders 2026 (CL26), will feature a roster of A-list speakers to open, close and elevate the entire conference. The annual event is hosted by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB).
Adam Grant, organizational psychologist at Wharton, bestselling author of Hidden Potential and host of WorkLife and Re:Thinking podcasts, will open the Main Stage Keynote entitled: Hidden Potential: Unlocking Excellence in Yourself and Others on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026.
Comedian, producer, and New York Times bestselling author Trevor Noah will close out CL26 on Wednesday, Jan. 14.
In A Conversation With Trevor Noah, the Daily Show alum will captivate CL26 participants with his trademark wit and sharp cultural insights. Drawing from his extraordinary journey—from growing up in South Africa to becoming one of the world’s most influential voices—he will share perspectives on resilience, global change and storytelling that inspire both personal and professional growth.
Main Stage speakers also include Tabitha Brown, Emmy Award-winning host, actress and bestselling author, whose journey from humble beginnings to building an authentic brand inspires millions across multiple platforms; and Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, who will explore the geopolitical and macro-economic forces reshaping global markets.
CL26 Promises Excitement & Education
In addition to top speakers, CL26 will offer informative, entertaining and industry-specific programming, including:
- 5 Main Stage Programs + 4 Sunday Pre-Conference Workshops, including intensives on AI and emerging trends.
- 47 Concurrent Sessions across industry alliances, branded formats and specialty tracks like the Medical Meeting Directors Roundtable
- 30 District Sessions in CL26’s Tech Arena, Spark Lounge and PCMA Institute
- Innovation Tours focused on Accessibility and Sustainability
- 12 curated Conversation Starters to deepen your event strategy
CL26 will be held Jan. 11–14 at Philly’s Pennsylvania Convention Center, marking PCMA’s 70th anniversary. You can register for CL26 here.
The CL26 program has continued to evolve. View the Education Program Overview here and the Agenda at a Glance here.
The closing main stage, supported by Destination Cleveland, also will provide the first look at what’s ahead for Convening Leaders 2027, Jan. 10-13 in Miami, FL.
Prevue will be at CL26 to bring you live reports. #PCMACL #CL26
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