Embracing the Future of Events— Why Giving Control to Delegates Makes All the Difference

As the events industry evolves, the appetite for innovative formats continues to grow. To keep our recent finance sector event fresh and engaging, we decided to step away from the traditional speaker-led setup and create a unique space for interaction and collaboration. The format, which we called a “Fish Bowl” session, invited participants to sit in a circle around a central stage, creating a setting that felt both open and intimate. It’s the perfect setup for engaging discussions and problem-solving. By giving control to the delegates, we created an experience that truly reflected the future of event design.

The ‘Fish Bowl’ Setup—Breaking Down Barriers

Our Fish Bowl session was all about connection. In place of rows and a distant stage, we arranged seating in a circle, with four stools and microphones in the centre. This circular setup resembled a Fish Bowl, fostering a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere where every delegate felt they had equal footing. With a skilled facilitator in place, the session kicked off with one powerful question: “What’s keeping you up at night?”

This question opened the floodgates, inviting attendees to share the real issues they face in their roles. And rather than answers coming from a single speaker, solutions were crowd-sourced from the group. Peers came forward to offer advice, insights, and ideas—transforming a traditional session into a collaborative, problem-solving experience. This approach brought new energy to the room, making everyone feel part of a shared journey.

Taking a Leap—Why Taking Risks in Event Design Matters

While our clients were initially hesitant to move away from a more conventional setup, our role as their trusted Professional Conference Organiser (PCO) was to encourage them to embrace the possibilities of this format. When events break away from the norm, they unlock opportunities for real impact and lasting connections. The result? The Fish Bowl format was such a success that our clients asked for it to be part of the programme again—and not just once, but twice!

Trying new formats is always a risk, but the rewards are worth it. A well-executed, delegate-led session shows that moving beyond the tried-and-tested is not only achievable but opens the door to memorable and meaningful experiences. The response from the audience made it clear: when we innovate and take chances, the results can be exceptional.

Empowering Delegates to Steer the Conversation

Allowing delegates to take the lead makes a world of difference. In both the Fish Bowl and similar ‘Campfire Sessions’—where attendees gather informally around the facilitator with no set agenda—the power rests with the participants. These sessions put control in the hands of the delegates, encouraging them to share openly, ask questions, and seek answers from each other. This format invites collaboration, harnesses the group’s collective wisdom, and often delivers practical solutions that attendees can take back to their roles.

Traditional presentations may offer valuable insights, but there’s something extraordinary about sessions where the delegates create the experience themselves. They walk away not just with information but with a sense of accomplishment and ownership. They’ve made connections, offered help, and taken away advice tailored precisely to their needs.

The Future of Events—A Versatile Format with Endless Potential

The success of the Fish Bowl format is a glimpse into the future of event design. This model can be adapted for any industry—whether it’s an association event, a corporate gathering, or even smaller roundtable discussions. The beauty of these sessions lies in their flexibility and the empowerment they offer participants.

We’re excited to see these kinds of formats gain traction as more organisers embrace the idea that attendees themselves can shape the agenda.

By embracing fresh ideas and encouraging attendees to take the lead, we’re not just creating events; we’re creating experiences that matter. As event professionals, we have the unique opportunity to inspire collaboration, spark meaningful dialogue, and let people connect in ways that feel personal and impactful. The Fish Bowl session has set a new standard, and I look forward to seeing it grow and thrive in all kinds of future events.