Jacqueline Joshua, a trailblazer in the MICE industry, shares her journey from hospitality management to organising world-renowned conferences. As a professional conference organiser, Jacqueline has made significant strides in the international arena, particularly focusing on environmental conferences. In this interview, she offers insights into her career, achievements, and advice for young women entering the MICE space.
Career Journey
How did your career in the MICE industry begin?
My career started in hospitality. I studied hotel management and worked as a front office, conference, and rooms division manager. This experience was invaluable when I transitioned to opening my own business as a professional conference organiser. Understanding hotel operations helped me effectively sell to clients and provided a solid foundation for my new venture.
Can you walk us through the evolution of your career?
Certainly. As I said previously, my journey began with a strong background in hospitality, which paved the way for my transition into conference organising. Initially, I worked with large NGOs but, over time, I moved to corporate clients. My focus has always been on delivering exceptional service and creating impactful events. Today, my work is primarily international, managing world conferences with a strong emphasis on environmental issues.
Greatest achievements
What are some of your most notable achievements in the MICE industry?
One of my greatest achievements was entering the international space. My work now exclusively involves international conferences, which is a significant milestone for me. I was responsible for the event transportation system for 18 000 delegates at the World Aids Conference in Durban, which was a massive undertaking.
Additionally, I managed the World Media Conference and Africa Media Conference, which were both incredibly rewarding experiences. I’ve also worked on several Climate Change Conferences, including COP conferences in Morocco, Germany, Poland, Madrid, Scotland, Egypt, Dubai, and now Azerbaijan.
What is your current focus in your career?
Currently, I manage conferences internationally for organisations focusing on environmental issues. My clients are based all over the world, and I am proud to have over 50 solid international clients. My goal is to continue expanding my reach and delivering top-notch services for these important global events.
Advice for young women in the MICE space
What advice would you give to young women entering the MICE industry?
Stay focused and be consistent. There will be many hurdles along the way but if you remain steadfast, it will eventually pay off. Never see other conference organisers as competition; there is work for everyone. Be ethical, and it will go a long way. It’s also important to keep learning and adapting to new trends and technologies in the industry.
Jacqueline Joshua’s journey from hospitality to becoming a renowned international conference organiser is truly inspiring. Her dedication, expertise, and ethical approach have earned her a distinguished place in the MICE industry. For young women looking to make their mark in this field, Jacqueline’s advice on focus, consistency, and ethical conduct provides a solid foundation for success. With her ongoing commitment to excellence, she continues to set a high standard in the world of conference management, making a significant impact on global events.
