Deeyah Khan will headline the closing day of IBTM World 2026, a major event industry conference, with a focus on artificial intelligence and the role of human connection in an era of rapid technological change. The three-day event, running from November 17-19, 2026, will feature discussions on how AI reshapes event design while emphasizing the enduring value of face-to-face interaction.
Khan, an award-winning filmmaker known for her work on societal divisions, will deliver the keynote on Thursday, November 19, at 9:15 AM. Her session, The Courage to Connect: How Listening Can Bridge Divides, Transform Relationships and Inspire Hope, will explore how empathy and active listening can support understanding in polarized environments. Khan’s documentary filmmaking has earned her 30 international awards, including two Emmys, two Peabodys, and a BAFTA, with her projects often engaging directly with extremist groups to challenge prejudice.
The Main Stage program reflects IBTM World 2026’s central theme, The Age of Disruption, by balancing technical innovation with the human element. Sessions will examine how event professionals can leverage AI tools while preserving meaningful connections. For instance, Michelle Kennedy, founder of Peanut and former executive at Bumble, will discuss why real-world interactions remain critical despite AI advancements. Her talk, Why AI Is Making IRL the Next Gold Rush, will contrast digital efficiency with the emotional and social benefits of in-person engagement.
Storytelling and Emotional Engagement
Other speakers will address storytelling as a tool for connection. Cheryl Miller Houser, a documentary filmmaker, will present a framework for human-centered storytelling in event design, arguing that emotionally resonant narratives can drive audience action. Meanwhile, Ruth Balbach, Head of Global Brand Creative at Universal Destinations & Experiences, will challenge the industry’s focus on experiences alone, instead advocating for the creation of lasting memories. Her session, We Are Not in the Experience Business. We Are in the Memory Business, aligns with a broader trend in event planning toward deeper, more enduring participant engagement.
Community-building will also take center stage. Delisha Fields, Global Event Strategy Leader at Waymo, will explore how community-driven strategies can become a competitive advantage in experiential marketing. Her talk, The New Community Economy, reflects a shift toward events that support belonging rather than passive attendance. This approach mirrors broader industry trends where brands prioritize shared identity over transactional interactions.
AI’s role in events will be dissected across multiple sessions. Nishma Patel Robb, founder of SwitchedOn, will offer an accessible introduction to AI applications in event planning, emphasizing time-saving and creative support while stressing the need for human oversight. Earlier that day, artist Doddz will merge technology and creativity with live experiments blending AI and audience participation, demonstrating how interactive tech can create memorable experiences tied to cultural context.
Practical Strategies for Industry Adaptation
The event’s organizers describe the program as a response to the industry’s need for adaptability. Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director at IBTM World, stated that the discussions aim to equip professionals with practical strategies for handling disruption, not just theoretical exploration. The conference itself will draw over 12,000 attendees and 2,500 exhibitors, including tech providers, creative agencies, and hospitality partners, all converging in Barcelona for three days of networking, business meetings, and interactive workshops.
