The countdown to Convening Leaders 2025 (CL25) has begun, and we’re thrilled to announce two keynote speakers who embody the spirit of our theme, “Go Beyond Your Orbit.” This year’s gathering in Houston, Texas, from January 12–15, 2025, promises to be an extraordinary experience of exploration, engagement, and evolution. Our mainstage will feature Liz Cheney, former United States Congresswoman, and Kishore Mahbubani, former president of the United Nations Security Council, each bringing powerful insights that will challenge us to think beyond the ordinary and inspire transformative action within the business events community.​

​Explore: Unpacking Global Power Dynamics with Kishore Mahbubani​

​On Monday, January 13, we will embark on a journey of exploration with Kishore Mahbubani. A distinguished diplomat and thought leader, Mahbubani will delve into the shifting global power dynamics and what they mean for the future of business events. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and complex, Mahbubani’s unique perspective will provide invaluable foresight, helping participants navigate the evolving global landscape. He will challenge us to explore new horizons, turning the complexities of our global reality into opportunities for growth and innovation. His keynote will not only broaden our understanding, but also encourage us to look at global challenges as opportunities to expand our reach and influence.​

​Engage: Fostering Principled Leadership with Liz Cheney​

On Tuesday, January 14, we’ll shift gears to engage with Liz Cheney’s compelling story of principled leadership. As a former U.S. Congresswoman, Cheney has stood at the forefront of American politics, demonstrating what it means to hold firm to one’s beliefs in the face of opposition. Her keynote will resonate deeply with those who strive to cultivate spaces where diverse ideas can flourish and where civil discourse prevails. Cheney’s insights will remind us of the importance of leadership that transcends personal and partisan agendas, promoting dialogue that builds bridges rather than walls. She will share her personal convictions and how they can be harnessed to foster collaboration and unity within the business events industry.

Evolve: Shaping the Future of Business Events​

Both Cheney and Mahbubani will provide perspectives that encourage us to evolve — as professionals, as leaders, and as a community. In a world that is rapidly changing, the business events industry must not only keep pace, but also drive the transformation. The insights shared by our keynote speakers will serve as catalysts, sparking the innovation and adaptive thinking needed to lead the way forward. Whether it’s navigating geopolitical shifts or championing democratic values, their experiences and wisdom will equip us to take actionable steps towards creating impactful events that resonate on a global scale.​

Join Us at CL25: Be Part of the Change​

Convening Leaders 2025 is more than just an event — it’s a movement that calls us to go beyond our orbit, to push the boundaries of what we know, and to lead with vision and purpose. With an exceptional lineup of speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and unparalleled networking opportunities, CL25 will empower you to explore, engage, and evolve. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of a transformative experience that will shape the future of our industry.