Katarina Railko is a seasoned veteran of the hospitality and events world, having built her career through the intricate complexities of travel, tourism, and high-stakes conferences. As a leading voice in the industry, she has a keen eye for the talent that keeps venues running smoothly and expos engaging for every attendee. Today, she shares her insights on the significance of industry recognition and the evolution of leadership definitions within the upcoming 2026 miaList awards hosted by the Meetings Industry Association. We explore the shift toward celebrating “inspiration” and the diverse ways teams are being honored for their contributions to the UK’s business meetings sector.
How does rebranding a leadership award to focus on “inspiration” rather than “executive status” change the way we perceive success in the meetings industry?
This shift is a profound acknowledgement that leadership isn’t just about a title on a business card; it’s about the energy and heart one brings to the workspace every day. By evolving the former Executive Leader Award into the Inspirational Leadership Award, the MIA is moving away from rigid corporate hierarchies to celebrate the human element that the late Gail Tomlinson-Short embodied so beautifully throughout her career. This change invites us to look at leadership through a lens of dedication and professionalism that resonates across all 14 categories, whether you are managing a small venue or a large-scale agency. It recognizes that the most impactful leaders are often those who empower their teams to innovate, regardless of their official rank or seniority. When the industry gathers on November 4 at the East Midlands Conference Centre, the atmosphere will be charged with this new spirit of collective encouragement rather than just top-down recognition.
With categories like ESG and Inclusive Events initiatives now taking center stage, what does this tell us about the future direction of event management and venue operations?
The inclusion of these specific categories proves that our industry is finally placing a high premium on purpose-driven work and social responsibility. It’s no longer enough to simply host a successful meeting; organizations must now demonstrate how they are making a tangible difference through Destination Initiatives or Sales & Marketing excellence. When the expert panel begins their assessment after the July 17 nomination deadline, they will be searching for concrete actions that show a genuine commitment to inclusivity and environmental stewardship. This creates a more vibrant and responsible sector where a Supplier of the Year is judged as much on their values as their logistical delivery. It’s an exciting time that encourages every professional to think deeply about the footprint they leave behind, ensuring that the excellence we celebrate today paves the way for a more ethical tomorrow.
Do you have any advice for our readers?
My advice is to lean heavily into the storytelling aspect of your nomination to truly capture the emotional impact and grit of your achievements. When you are preparing your entry for the August 12 shortlist announcement, don’t just list statistics or dates; describe the nervous energy of a high-stakes event or the collective relief of a team overcoming a major operational hurdle. Whether you are nominating a Rising Star or an entire Events & Operations Team, make sure to highlight the specific moments of professionalism and dedication that set them apart from the competition. Use this opportunity to reflect on your own journey and the people who have inspired you, because the act of recognizing others often fuels our own passion for this demanding industry. Most importantly, ensure your submission is finalized and sent by 5 pm on July 17, as every dedicated voice in the UK’s business meetings sector deserves the chance to be celebrated on a national stage.
