Leading with Purpose, Learning with Passion: Highlights from MPI WEC 2025
Attending MPI’s World Education Congress (WEC) 2025 last week was equal parts energizing and enlightening—reminding me why I’m proud to be part of this ever-evolving hospitality industry and this incredible MPI community.
Chapter Pride & Global Perspective
As President of the MPI Gulf States Chapter, it was a true privilege to connect with chapter leaders from around the world. Being recognized for our volunteer contributions at the President’s Dinner was both meaningful and energizing—made even more special by sharing the evening with both new and longtime friends. The President’s Dinner, a signature highlight of MPI WEC, united industry leaders to celebrate achievements and strengthen our global community. Hosted by Hilton Hotels, the night was absolutely unforgettable—elegant, warm, and beautifully executed.
MPI’s continued growth—both globally and at the local chapter level—is inspiring, and I’m proud to be part of shaping what comes next
Sessions That Sparked Strategy & Standout Keynotes
WEC 2025 offered no shortage of future-focused content, featuring over 113 educational sessions and 165 speakers. I dove into sessions that covered:
Forecasts and industry trends from thought leaders like Michael Dominguez and Dave Leong.
Planner-supplier dynamics evolving in real-time, powered by innovations from Hilton, tech platforms, and supplier partners
Event design innovations and the growing role of AI in our industry’s future
Designing Engaging Meetings to maximize event impact
Temple Grandin – agricultural icon, academic superstar and autism advocate
Brittany Packnett Cunningham - leader of culture, justice and policy
Daniel Lewis - entrepreneur and motivational storyteller
These weren’t just high-level discussions—they were workshops and presentations filled with takeaways I’m already bringing to the table for upcoming programs.
Networking Highlights
WEC 2025’s networking events ensured that every attendee had the opportunity to connect with purpose—and leave with valuable new relationships.
Opening Night at Busch Stadium: An iconic kickoff with on-field access, ballpark bites, live music, and skyline views.
Marketplace & Tradeshow: A dynamic hub where planners and partners connected through immersive exhibits and meaningful conversations.
Closing Celebration at Grand Center Arts District: A high-energy finale featuring Grammy-winner Nelly, with art, music, food trucks, and cultural activations that brought everyone together one last time.
Powerful Partnerships & Industry Praise
Even without capturing every moment on camera, I had meaningful conversations with leaders across the meetings and events ecosystem—many of whom had glowing things to say about their work with Hosts Global.
I also stopped by the Visit San Antonio booth, on hand to promote their destination for WEC 2026. Their team spoke so highly of our Hosts Texas crew! I also connected with some of our amazing hotel partners around the country, who had great things to say about their partnerships with Hosts.
A Final Thought
Conferences like WEC remind us: growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It comes from meaningful collaboration, curious minds, and communities like MPI that keep pushing the meetings and events industry forward.
Looking ahead to MPI WEC in San Antonio in 2026 and beyond, I’m excited to keep learning, leading, and innovating with Hosts Global and MPI at the heart of it all.
About Yvonne T. Collazo, DMCP, CIS, CITP | Senior Director of Sales, Hosts New Orleans
With more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry—and over 13 of those years dedicated to Hosts New Orleans—Yvonne T. Collazo is a seasoned expert in sales strategy, client experience, and destination storytelling. As Senior Director of Sales, she leads with a deep understanding of what it takes to turn good events into unforgettable experiences, drawing on her certifications (DMCP, CIS, CITP) and a lifetime of passion for people and place.
Known for her vibrant energy and bon vivant spirit, Yvonne brings both professionalism and personality to every conversation. She’s a social adventurer who loves a new challenge, a loyal teammate, and a natural connector—whether she’s crafting a pitch or perfecting the flow of a multi-day incentive program.
When she’s not dreaming up next-level events, you’ll find her on the pickleball court, binging the latest true crime series, or sipping iced coffee (never hot!) while planning her next New Orleans foodie find.