Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1526693
A favorite for me, was guest speaker Mel Brooks, who elec- trified the audience with his take on true happiness. He highlight- ed the importance of reversing the bucket list and being mindful of our desires, arguing that this shift can alleviate the unhappi- ness often caused by chasing wants that detract from our core life goals. There were many breakout sessions where you were able to explore the future of technology, how to grow your individual cities & collaborate, and more. With nearly 2,000 attendees, including over 750 international delegates from more than 30 countries and territories, this was the largest DI convention ever held. accommoDaTions: comforT anD convenience During my stay in Tampa, I enjoyed the luxury of the Westin, located on a quaint island surrounded by water. This upscale hotel seamlessly combines comfort with modern amenities in a peaceful waterfront setting, perfect for relaxation. Its close prox- imity to the JW Marriott, where the conference took place, made it an ideal choice for housing the press, while the spacious rooms and excellent dining options greatly enhanced my expe- rience. meeTing spaces: sTaTe-of-The-arT faciliTies I was most impressed by the Tampa Convention Center, the primary venue for the Omega Psi Phi Conclave, the largest event in Tampa, hosting more than 20,000 attendees in June 2024. Spearheaded by Sherri Brown, formerly featured on the cover of Black Meetings and Tourism magazine, the center showcased its remarkable capacity and capabilities. This world-class facility adeptly managed everything from large-scale gatherings to inti- mate sessions with its expansive meeting rooms, cutting-edge audiovisual equipment, and exceptional staff. The center's ver- satility was ideal for both grand keynote sessions and smaller workshops, providing an excellent environment for networking and engagement. Adding to its charm, the stunning waterfront views offered a picturesque backdrop, further enhancing the attendees' experience. i nfrasTrucTure DevelopmenT: a ciTy on The rise Tampa is undergoing significant infrastructure development, enhancing its appeal as a top destination for conferences and tourism. The recently completed Water Street Tampa develop- ment is a testament to the city's growth. This mixed-use district features hotels, residences, offices, and retail spaces, all designed with sustainability and community in mind. The devel- opment has transformed the downtown area, creating a vibrant hub that attracts both locals and visitors. As part of this year's conference, Destinations International Foundation also presented Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) and Hospitality Scholarships. Each student will receive USD $8,000 for the 2024-2025 academic year. To-date, the foundation has raised more than USD $225,000 from individual and organization donors to sup- port this program. The 2024-2025 HBCU Scholarship recipients include: • Cassandre Bossicot, Bethune-Cookman University • Celine Trombi, Delaware State University • Christian Nettles, North Carolina Central University • Hannah Weiss, Delaware State University • Justin Simon, Morgan State University • Kajal Ghising, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore • Kaniyah Williams Bailey, Delaware State University • Ly Bao Tran Phan, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore • Mya Mendoza, Morgan State University poinTers for planners anD Travel agenTs For event planners and travel agents considering Tampa as a destination, there are several key factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, the city's diverse range of accommodations and meeting spaces means that there is something to suit every group size and budget. The strategic location of hotels and ven- ues, particularly in the downtown area, ensures convenience for attendees. 38 B M & T ••• September/October 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com