How a Communications Consultant Elevates your Event

How a Communications Consultant Elevates your Event: My Role in the 2023 PIIF CEO’s Forum

Embarking on an assignment for the Pacific Islands Investment Forum was not just another project; it was an opportunity to take my skills international for the first time since my corporate job.

In the fast-paced world of international business, the power of effective communication cannot be understated. My engagement as a travelling communications consultant for the Pacific Islands Investment Forum (PIIF), exemplifies this, where I had the opportunity to blend photography, videography, design and communications to strategically enhance the forum's impact. This recap highlights the immense value a dedicated communications expert can add to events as well as your brand.

Very quickly, about the PIIF:

The Pacific Islands Investment Forum is an industry group of 20 Superannuation, Provident, Trust, and Sovereign Funds in 12 countries across the Pacific region with over $16.2 billion (NZD) in Funds under management. Together they represent the savings and financial wellbeing of over 1.6 million members — providing a platform for Collaboration, Education, and Co-Investing to improve financial security for Pacific people.

The PIIF holds an annual CEO Forum to bring together all the Chief Executives from across the Pacific. The CEOs Forum is an opportunity to build relationships with Funds from around the Pacific; discuss best practices, share experiences, trouble shoot problems and even line up potential investment opportunities for the region. It also provides a platform for multi-lateral, big name companies, like ADB and World Bank, to engage with the PIIF members. All this to say, the importance of this project was not to be understated.

Each Fund takes turns hosting the Forum. In 2023, it was a joint effort between NasFund and Nambawan Super, taking place in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

Back to the blog:

Prior to the event, our company had been engaged to design and develop a ‘clean cut’ website which cut through corporate jargon and delivered information in a clear, concise way. We achieved this within the set timeframe much to pleasure of the Forum, who had intended to launch their new site at the CEO’s Forum. It would be the centre point for all event and ongoing communications.

Upon completion of the website, we were then engaged to attend in order to help further elevate the events digital presence and manage the external communications for the forum.

Arriving into the event, I felt my presence at the forum was driven by a purpose far greater than mere documentation. It was about weaving a narrative that showcased the forum's key discussions, collaborative ideas, and the invaluable networking that unfolded amongst global stakeholders and industry members. I also wanted the assets produced to have flexibility and longevity, increasing its overall effectiveness, providing additional value for the forum. This narrative was pivotal in extending the forum's reach beyond the confines of its physical location.

Day 1: Setting the Stage with CEO Workshops

The forum kicked off with a series of CEO workshops designed to foster dialogue among the leaders. Capturing these workshops was about more than just photographing and filming key moments; it was about highlighting the exchange of ideas, the intensity of discussions, collaborative spirit and the higher purpose of elevating ideas to empower Pacific communities. The visual content aimed to encapsulate the anticipation and enthusiasm as the foundation for the days to follow, setting a vibrant tone for the forum.

Day 2: The Official Opening at APEC Haus – A Blend of Culture and Commerce

The grandeur of the official opening at APEC Haus was a sight to behold, marking a fusion of cultural heritage and business. The Forum was officially opened by CEO of NasFund Mr Ian Tarutia, with key note speakers, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea the Hon. James Marape MP and Minister for International Investments & Trade Hon. Richard Maru, OBE, MP. The afternoon followed with addresses from leading institutions and business across Papua New Guinea, before the CEO’s broke for their closed door Annual General Meeting. The role of Chairperson of the PIIF was handed over from Samoa National Provident Fund CEO Mr. Pauli Prince Suhren to NasFund CEO Mr Ian Tarutia.

The imagery and footage from this day were pivotal in showcasing the forum's global stature and the inclusive spirit of the discussions that unfolded.

Day 3: Industry Site Visits – Bridging Theory and Practice

A key highlight was Day 3's site visits to PNG LNG and Paradise Foods Limited, where the theoretical discussions of the previous days were grounded in real-world applications. Documenting these visits provided a unique perspective on how investment strategies are translated into tangible outcomes within the Pacific. The investments made into these sites through superannuation and sovereign wealth funds, resulted in direct economic growth for Papua New Guinea. The visuals from these site visits aimed to underscore the practical impact of the forum's dialogues, showcasing innovation in action.

Day 4: Highlighting Achievements and the Official Closing

The culmination of the forum literally ended with a bang. But before the massive fireworks display concluded the event, it was a day filled with reflections on achievements and future commitments. Documenting the official closing, I focused on capturing the resolve and optimism that permeated the atmosphere. The media highlights produced were not just a recap but a testament to the forum's success in fostering meaningful partnerships and setting a course for future investment initiatives in the Pacific region.

The forum's conclusion was a reflective session, celebrating the strides made while also setting the vision for future collaborations. For the official closing, I aimed to capture the collective resolve of the participants through sit down interviews. The media highlights from this day served not only as a summary of the forum's success but also as a beacon for ongoing and future initiatives.

The Impact: Beyond the Event

A skilled consultant can enhance any corporate event, from conferences to forums, by expertly handling communication complexities. They do more than just update attendees in real time; their work becomes a valuable resource, offering insights and outcomes for future reference.

This project demonstrates how a well-executed communications strategy can significantly impact international forums. By crafting narratives that resonate, rather than merely documenting events, these moments become significant milestones. For businesses involved in international forums, hiring a professional communications consultant is not an expense but a vital tool for global engagement.

Investing in expert communications consultancy is crucial for those aiming to boost their digital presence and make a lasting impact with their international activities. I’m incredibly fortunate to have had to opportunity to play a role in the PIIF’s story.

To learn more about them, visit their website here.