IFES MasterClass’ European edition brings practical learning, international perspectives and industry connections to the home of Poland’s longest-established trade fair industry
The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) is bringing its European MasterClass to Poznań, Poland, from 25–27 November 2026, for three days of practical learning, fresh perspectives and international connection.
Hosted at MTP Poznań Expo, the MasterClass places delegates at the heart of one of Poland’s most established exhibition environments, in a city with a strong trade fair heritage and a natural position as a meeting point between European markets.
The Poznań gathering is the second IFES MasterClass of 2026, following the collaborative IFES/EDPA MasterClass held in Dallas, Texas, in August. Together, the two events extend IFES learning opportunities across two continents and reinforce the network’s commitment to practical professional development for the global exhibition community.
Under the theme “Futureproof Your Personal Toolbox”, the programme focuses on the skills professionals increasingly need as client expectations, technology and ways of working continue to evolve.
Practical skills for a changing industry
The programme opens with Speak Exhibitor, led by Agnieszka Garboś, challenging delegates to look beyond what is written in a client brief, identify the real business objective and move from order taker to strategic partner.
Keynote speaker Agnieszka Maruda follows with Future-Proof Under Pressure, exploring resilience, emotional regulation and practical ways to stay effective in demanding event environments.
In Beyond the Brief, Han Leenhouts and Lee Ali bring together contractor and exhibitor perspectives to show how better questions can uncover hidden objectives, improve briefs and strengthen client relationships.
The afternoon then moves firmly into practical AI with Matt Hughes’ AI Productivity Lab. Hughes, a Microsoft Certified Trainer and founder of TubeFest and Festival of AI, will guide delegates through a hands-on workshop where they build an AI-powered tool around a genuine workplace challenge.
On Friday, Aliya Rajah, Executive Presence and Public Speaking Coach, leads Building Executive Presence, helping future leaders communicate with greater clarity, build trust and strengthen their influence.
The programme concludes with Futureproof Your Career, a thought-provoking panel moderated by IFES President, Jörg Zeissig, exploring leadership lessons, future skills and what it really takes to build a successful international career in the exhibition industry. Delegates will then create their own Futureproof Career Plan, turning the learning into clear next steps.
“The most useful professional development gives people something they can put into practice as soon as they return to work,” says Lee Ali, of the IFES Education Committee . “In Poznań, we want participants to test ideas, challenge familiar habits and learn from colleagues whose markets and experiences may be very different from their own.”
Beyond the classroom
As always, the MasterClass experience is designed to be as much about connection as it is about content.
On Thursday, delegates will visit the Poznań Croissant Museum & Experience for an interactive introduction to one of the city’s best-known traditions: the St. Martin’s Croissant, combining local culture, history and food in a fun and informal setting.
From there, it is a short walk across the Old Town Square to Just Friends for the evening networking dinner. A relaxed, sharing-style menu centred on Greater Poland cuisine will give delegates plenty of time to continue conversations, make new connections and enjoy the city together.
Ready to futureproof your personal toolbox? Registration for IFES MasterClass 2026 – Poznań is now open.
For programme details and registration, visit:https://www.ifesnet.com/events-all/ifes-masterclass-2026-poznan-poland/
