Cultural Spark
10/22/2025
And just when I thought it couldn’t get better, I was humbled to see IMEX include a quote from me in their official recap a moment that affirmed I’m walking in purpose, not perfection. 🙏
This year, I also brought my own press team Kirk Gillon to IMEX and interviewed a few destinations Mexico, Brazil, Portugal, Peru, Guatemala, Puerto Rico and Colombia to explore how they use culture to design engaging, inclusive meetings that truly connect global audiences. I can’t wait to share more soon, including audience testimonials Chad Mascitelli AND Mackenzie Dierks and insights on cultural value orientations from around the world.
Check out a few behind the scenes snapshots of an incredible experience at IMEX America’s Smart Monday! and the ImexScoop Highlight
Grateful to (Meeting Professionals International) for the opportunity to share on Cultural Agility and Cultural Competency and to the amazing destinations I had the chance to interview: 🇲🇽 🇧🇷 🇵🇹 🇵🇪 🇬🇹 🇨🇴
Each of these moments reminds me that culture connects us all and when we lead with awareness, empathy, and respect, we build bridges that last. 🙏
Thank you again to everyone who shared their stories and energy. This is just the beginning!
Melissa Acosta
IMEX 2025 RECAP:
Emancipate yourself from mental slavery none but ourselves can free our minds.” – Bob Marley
After speaking at IMEX America at Smart Monday Meeting Professionals International - MPI Meeting Professionals International in Las Vegas this year, I found myself standing in front of a wall glowing with those words at the Bob Marley One Love Experience.And for a moment, I just stood still.
I had just finished delivering my session on Cultural Agility to a global audience a career milestone I had dreamed about for years. But behind the smile, I was quietly battling imposter syndrome… those quiet thoughts of “Do I truly belong here?” Cultural Spark
Then came Marley’s voice — powerful, raw, liberating.
His message reminded me that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing to show up, heart open, even when doubt whispers otherwise.
That moment reconnected me to my why the reason I founded Cultural Spark : to create connection through culture, to help others feel seen, valued, and understood beyond borders,
to turn fear into freedom through awareness and empathy.
I walked out of that exhibit not just inspired but lighter.
Because belonging isn’t something others give you.
It’s something you claim when you decide to show up as you.
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