To help share its mission and successes, the MPI Foundation has released its 2025 Annual Impact Report, boasting real-life testimonials from supporters and beneficiaries worldwide.
In fact, we received so many glowing testimonials from MPI Foundation scholarship recipients, they couldn’t all fit in the print report. It’s important to spread such human stories of the Foundation’s impact on event professionals—and some of the event professionals’ own journeys.
Elodie Morini, CMP (MPI Italia Chapter), key account manager US & Canada for Le Méridien Paris, was awarded one of this year’s MPI Foundation scholarship to attend MPI’s European Meetings & Events Conference (EMEC).
How did the MPI Foundation scholarship to attend EMEC impact you?
Thanks to the scholarship, I was able to take part in EMEC 2025 hosted in İstanbul, Türkiye, which otherwise might not have fit my schedule or budget. This experience gave me access to top-level education, international insights and direct exchanges with peers and suppliers. It strengthened my capacity as key account manager, by expanding my view on global MICE trends and enriching my professional network across Europe and beyond.
Can you share a favorite takeaway from the experience?
The clearest takeaway was seeing how a professional conference like EMEC can blend education, culture and networking—making learning immersive through the learning journeys and future-oriented. In İstanbul, beyond the conference rooms, I discovered how venues such as Izaka at CVK Bosphorus, hospitality such as Rixos Tersane, logistics and event design are shaped by local culture and global standards.
My favorite moment was my Learning Journey Cocktail Workshop at the Pera Palace. The Pera Palace is an historical Istanbul Hotel featuring a Belle Epoque style and a magnificent Art Nouveau façade.
Did that experience affect your perception of professional scholarships and/or the MPI Foundation?
The experience changed my perspective. I now see the MPI Foundation as a catalyst for professional growth, not just a funding source. Their support demonstrated a clear commitment to developing talent and elevating standards across the meetings and hospitality sectors. I am always willing to get involved in the MPI Foundation as I see concretely how it helps future event leaders.
What would you say to event industry peers who may be hesitant to apply for similar scholarships?
If I were advising them, I would say: applying is worth it—the value goes well beyond the cost covered. You get access to top-tier content, market insights across Europe and the opportunity to explore a host destination’s culture and networking. It can accelerate both personal and professional growth. The experience can reshape how you approach events, partnerships and strategy.
Click to learn more about and apply for MPI Foundation scholarships.
