Keynote Speakers for AIME 2025 Knowledge Program

Dr Kristy Goodwin

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has unveiled two dynamic keynote speakers for its highly anticipated 2025 Knowledge Program, which will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from February 10–12. Centered around the theme “We Matter!”, this year’s program will explore the global business events industry’s role as a key driver of economic growth while emphasizing the importance of personal wellbeing and innovation in achieving industry success.

Meet the Keynote Speakers

Dr. Kristy Goodwin
A renowned neuro-performance scientist and award-winning author, Dr. Kristy Goodwin translates cutting-edge neuroscience and technology research into actionable strategies for peak performance. Sponsored by Ovations!, her keynote, Powered-Up Performers: The Neuroscience of Sustainable Peak Performance in a Digital Age, will equip attendees with practical brain-based micro-habits to enhance productivity, manage stress, and sustain energy in today’s digitally intensive work environments.

“I’ll share simple micro-habits that event professionals can integrate into their daily lives to become a high-res, powered-up version of themselves,” Dr. Goodwin said. “Wellbeing is essential for anyone who wants to continue driving growth in the events industry.”

Gus Balbontin

Gus Balbontin

Former executive director and CTO of Lonely Planet, Gus Balbontin is celebrated for his disruptive approach to innovation. Sponsored by ICMI, his keynote session, Adapt, promises to challenge the audience to embrace discomfort as a springboard for breakthrough ideas. Known for his rebellious thinking, Balbontin aims to provoke fresh perspectives and reignite the spirit of innovation among event professionals.

“I’m excited to challenge them, to provoke fresh thinking, and help them reconnect with the rebellious mindset that fuels innovation,” Balbontin said. “I always say to the audience, if I don’t make you uncomfortable, you’re not going to learn anything new.”

Elevating Industry Knowledge

Expected to draw more than 1,500 global event professionals, the AIME 2025 Knowledge Program is hosted and curated by El Kwang, founder of BEAMexperience. Known for his innovative approach, Kwang aims to elevate the program to new heights, building on its past successes.

“This year’s dynamic speakers underpin our ambition to craft a superior and pertinent Knowledge Program that builds on past successes, sets new standards in content leadership, and solidifies AIME’s reputation as the quintessential hub for gathering and learning,” Kwang said.

Why the Knowledge Program Matters

The Knowledge Program is a cornerstone of AIME’s commitment to providing education, insights, and inspiration for the business events community. AIME Event Director Silke Calder emphasized the significance of the program and its alignment with the event’s broader goals.

“We are thrilled to have such inspirational and exciting speakers to launch the Knowledge Program at AIME 2025,” Calder said. “Each year, the Knowledge Program continues to grow and is a key programming element of AIME, which bolsters our commitment to furthering education and professional growth opportunities for our industry.”

Calder also hinted at more announcements to come: “We will be announcing the full program in the next few weeks—it’s shaping up to be our best yet!”

Join AIME 2025

The AIME 2025 Knowledge Program is open to Hosted Buyers, Hosted Media, Exhibitors, and Visitor Buyers who upgrade their tickets. It promises to be an unmissable opportunity for event professionals to gain actionable insights, connect with industry leaders, and explore innovative strategies to drive growth.

AIME 2025 will take place from February 10–12, 2025, at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.

For more information and updates, visit aime.com.au.