Association of Professional Party Organizers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN), has held a one day training for professionals and practitioners in the event industry in Nigeria.
The training, held at Queen Park in Lekki, Lagos State, was part of activities lined up to celebrate the Association’s three days annual conference called “The Event Industry Conference (TEIC) 2019”. The theme was: “Stepping Up”.
According to APPOEMN President, Gbemisola Ope, the masterclass training is an educative and interactive session where professionals in the event industry gathered to learn about various aspects that affects the industry, including, public relations, etiquette, event management, decoration and catering among other aspects.
She said participants have been refreshed with a renewed experience and knowledge with step up in their business.
She noted that the industry has contributed a lot to the economy, adding that it has a lot of potentials to contribute more, because Nigerians have lots of events going on every day, including chieftaincy tittles, political events, conferences, birthdays, weddings and burial, among others.
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She however noted that there are several challenges in the event industry that needs government intervention to give it a boost.
“Training is one major thing lacking behind in our event industry in Nigeria compared to international standards.
We need funding for further training, funding to help startups and professionals to grow and compete with our peers in the international world. We need access to be able to not create things but to also import and bring in things without issues and huge levies.
“We also need standards to be set, legislations should be made so that we can make ourselves and our colleagues accountable for what we do for clients and to also make our clients accountable to us as professionals.”
She urged new startups in the industry, be prepared, not get discouraged, get a mentor and don’t stop learning. She urged youths to maximize the opportunities in the different aspects of the event industry to get themselves gainfully employed.
An Event Designer and Event Planner, Owner/Managing Director, Sebnem Event and Designs, Sebnem Slardini, urged practitioners in the event industry to be innovative, noting that is what is needed to fit into the new generations.
“Let your work be what the new generation likes, combine your works with cultures, technology, new trends, creativity, colours and entertainment, because these features will make your work unic.
She urged event practitioners in Nigeria to be open to international exposures, noting that inspiration drawn from other countries would help them stand out.
Mixologist Specialist and Flair Bartender, Turk Flair, Huseyin Honamli, urged Nigerian youths to venture into the event industry and maximise the numerous opportunities therein.
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