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MPI Foundation

Committed to our community

Antonio Ducceschi, vice chair of finance for the MPI Foundation Global Board of Trustees, recounts his proudest accomplishments of the MPI Foundation, especially during times of crisis.

By Meeting Professionals International

Can you tell us about an important initiative of the MPI Foundation during your leadership tenure?

AD: One of the most significant initiatives during my leadership tenure has been the fundraising campaign to support Ukrainian students through the MPI Poland Chapter. This initiative was particularly impactful as it provided crucial financial support to ensure the continuity of education for Ukrainian students affected by the war. Without this funding, many of these students would have faced significant disruptions in their studies. This effort not only highlighted the MPI Foundation’s commitment to education but also demonstrated our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to global crises, ensuring that students could continue their academic pursuits despite the turmoil around them.

What’s a personal highlight from your involvement with the MPI Foundation?

AD: On a high level, the most rewarding aspect of my involvement with the MPI Foundation has been the opportunity to support industry professionals during one of the toughest periods of their careers, the COVID-19 pandemic. The Foundation’s support was vital in helping many professionals stay in the industry during these challenging times.

On a more tactical level, I am particularly proud of the unique packages I created and donated for our charity auctions. These packages achieved three main goals: they raised significant funds for the Foundation, provided the buyers with unforgettable experiences and offered destinations and companies valuable exposure with minimal effort. This initiative not only supported the Foundation financially but also enriched the lives of the participants and showcased the collaborative spirit within our community.

How has your involvement with the MPI Foundation contributed to your professional or personal growth?

AD: My involvement with the MPI Foundation has been instrumental in both my professional and personal development. It has allowed me to build a robust network of high-level industry contacts, broaden my knowledge and expertise and gain valuable insights and ideas that I have been able to implement in my daily work. Furthermore, experience I have gained through the Foundation have led to numerous speaking and panel opportunities at industry events, significantly enhancing my professional profile and leadership skills.

Why would you encourage other meeting and event professionals to get involved with the MPI Foundation?

AD: I would strongly encourage other professionals to get involved with the MPI Foundation for several reasons. Firstly, the Foundation provides us with so much, and it feels immensely rewarding to give back. Secondly, being involved offers a unique opportunity to gain diverse industry perspectives and develop new skills through collaboration with volunteer leaders. This involvement fosters better leadership qualities and offers a platform to contribute meaningfully to the industry’s growth and resilience.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meeting Professionals International

Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry. MPI has a global community of 60,000 meeting and event professionals including nearly 13,000 engaged members. It has It has nearly 70 chapters, clubs and members in more than 75 countries worldwide. "When we meet, we change the world."  www.mpi.org

 

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