The power of being involved

By Megan Peters, MEA Deputy Chair

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about our Branch Committees and the personal and professional satisfaction I’ve gained from being involved in MEA.

The article had a great response, so I wanted to profile some of our other committee volunteers – and where better to start than the incredible 23-year tenure of Philip Wells from Adelaide Convention Centre.

A stalwart supporter of MEA over the years, Philip recently made the decision to step down as a MEA South Australian Branch Committee member.  I recently caught up with Philip to thank him for his amazing two decades of service, and in doing so, became more inspired by his story.

In 2000, Philip was working at the then-named Melbourne Exhibition Convention Centre as an Event Planner. He was awarded a MIAA Young Professional Scholarship, which saw him travel to Hong Kong for the national conference and be given the opportunity to join a sub-committee – of which he chose the networking events.

After moving to Adelaide in 2002, an innate passion had built within for Philip for both MEA and events, and he duly joined the South Australian Branch Committee – and has never looked back.

It is obvious that the industry, but more particularly the South Australian sub-sector, has benefitted from Philip’s involvement, but I asked him what he got out of being involved, and he spoke about both professional and personal benefits.

“Volunteering your time demonstrates your commitment to the cause – not only on a personal level but also on behalf of your employer. Our vibrant business events industry has given me a career and kept me creatively engaged in ongoing full-time employment, something I don’t take for granted. While I haven’t changed employer for a few years now, the industry connections and relationships created on all levels are standing the test of time and longevity is valued by many.”

“Personally, volunteering is good for the soul, and I make the time to do it with several groups and events. Volunteering with MEA has always been fun. An opinion can be best backed up with action, and I have enjoyed helping influence the events we run and the outcomes we have achieved.”

It is incredible to think that Philip has dedicated over two decades of service and I wholeheartedly feel that this longevity shows incredible commitment – values that place anyone in good stead, but particularly in events.

In wrapping up our catch-up, I asked Philip if he had any advice for anyone thinking about joining MEA and a committee in this post-Covid recovery era.

“Make the time and back yourself, your opinion is valued and you will be contributing to the success of our industry. Who knows where that will lead? But you need to give before you receive.”

Wise words from an absolute legend of the industry and legend of a man. Thank you, Philip, from the MEA Board and management, your peer members, and the wider industry for your incredible service and contribution.