SITE Academy for Young Leaders in New York, New York brought together a diverse group of representatives from twenty-three nations to share knowledge, perspectives and views from their position in the incentive network.

Tailored for professionals 35 and under or who hold less than five years of industry experience, this event is particularly unique because it recognizes the contributions of Generation Y and the Millennials within business today. Aligned with this spirit, SITE recognized three 2008 SITE Academy for Young Leaders Scholarship recipients: 

Gina Carmo, NEX Level Tours, Brazil

Chris Esposito, Hello Florida, USA 

Carl Lundgren, YSB AB, Sweden

“There is incredible talent in the next generation of leaders in the incentive marketsphere,” said SITE President Padraic Gilligan. “The intent of this event and the scholarship program is to bring forward individuals who hold a passion for this business and provide them with educational and networking experiences that they otherwise may not be able to receive.  For example, one aspect of the conference focused on the role of government agencies and world tourism organizations, so the delegates engaged in education sessions at the United Nations and were able to take in a once in a lifetime experience of walking in the footsteps of global leaders on the General Assembly floor.”

“I was energized by hosting this event in New York,” said Cosimo Bruzzese, SITE Academy for Young Leaders Chair and Director of Sales for Briggs Inc.  “Education sessions came to life with delegates from as far away as South Africa, the Russian Federation and Australia all contributing insight.  Opening ourselves up and understanding the differences in point of view will make each of us more effective with our next sale, program design and business acumen as a whole.”

“Amazing,” was one word SITE CEO Brenda Anderson used to sum up the event.  “I am always touched by the care and concern this next generation of leaders displays when they come together.  They think globally and directly seek connections that will let them do their jobs with a higher level of social consciousness and cross organizational teamwork.”

SITE Academy for Young Leaders is a part SITE’s Young Leaders Program which has been designed to deliver education, networking and business connections to SITE members.  This event was generously supported by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, Briggs Inc., InterContinental The Barclay New York, The London Hotel, Norwegian Cruise Lines, PRA Destination Management New York, Programs Plus International, Rainbow by Cipriani, Silversea, Tavern on the Green and Visit London.