Draperstown's Laura O’Kane selected for elite global leadership programme

ICC Belfast’s Head of Marketing and Partnerships, Laura O’Kane, has been selected to join an international leadership programme for the global convention and events industry.

Draperstown woman, Laura, is one of only ten participants hand-picked for the AIPC Future Shapers programme, which recognises the emerging leaders in the industry across the world.

She will join a cohort of rising industry professionals from countries including Malaysia, South Africa, Australia and the Netherlands. They will all compete in an international pitch competition in Newfoundland, Canada, next summer.

The Future Shapers programme is delivered by the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC). It provides participants with opportunities to develop their leadership capabilities, collaborate with international peers and tackle some of the sector's most pressing challenges.

Laura will participate in a series of expert-led masterclasses before working alongside a team of fellow participants to develop an innovative solution to an industry challenge, which the teams will then pitch to industry leaders.

Laura has more than 15 years' experience in strategic marketing and communications. Since joining ICC Belfast in 2022, Laura has played an instrumental role in raising the international profile of the venue and supporting major global events, including One Young World, working with brands like Coca-Cola, and supporting national and international science, engineering and technology association events.

In her role as Head of Marketing and Partnerships, Laura leads the strategic direction of brand, communications and audience development, working closely with event organisers and stakeholders to maximise the impact of events hosted at ICC Belfast.

Commenting on her selection, Laura O’Kane, Head of Marketing and Partnerships at ICC Belfast, said: “I am incredibly proud to have been selected for the AIPC Future Shapers programme and to have the opportunity to represent ICC Belfast and Northern Ireland on an international stage.

“The events industry is constantly evolving, and I am excited to learn from talented colleagues internationally, exchange ideas and explore new ways of driving innovation across our sector.

“ICC Belfast has provided me with fantastic opportunities to develop professionally and work on some truly world-class events. I am looking forward to bringing the knowledge, experiences and connections gained through Future Shapers back to Belfast and contributing to the continued growth and success of our industry.”

Laura follows in the footsteps of ICC Belfast colleagues Laurel Gray, Ciara Davidson and Dave Young, who have previously completed the programme, reflecting the venue's continued commitment to developing talent and supporting international leadership opportunities.

Rob McConnell, Chief Executive of ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, said: “Laura's selection for the AIPC Future Shapers programme is well-deserved recognition of the talent, creativity and leadership she brings to ICC Belfast and the work that she does showcasing Belfast as a leading destination for world-class conferences and events.

“We are extremely proud to see another member of our team recognised on a global stage. Investing in our people and creating opportunities for professional development is central to our ambitions, and Laura's selection builds on the success of colleagues who have previously participated in this programme.

“I have no doubt that Laura will be an outstanding ambassador for ICC Belfast and Northern Ireland, and we look forward to seeing the ideas and insights she brings back from this experience.”