The IAPA Latin America meeting took place from 24-27 September, in Antigua City, Guatemala. Host firm, Paredes, Saravia & Asociados, S.C. welcomed all delegates to the event with a drinks reception and dinner on the evening of Thursday, 24 October.
Following the success of the inaugural Latin-American Business-to-Business networking day in 2014, a second B2B meeting was arranged for the Friday, with approximately 50 businessmen and women, some being clients of IAPA’s host firm, attending the event. Stephen Hamlet was delighted to be offered the opportunity to present at this event on behalf of IAPA and explain the qualities and reach of the international association.
With 11 different countries represented, the IAPA Latin America conference officially commenced on the Saturday morning, following a delightful dinner the previous night, which included some fabulous local entertainment. Juan Carlos Paredes, from local firm, introduced everyone to the meeting, followed by Stephen Hamlet who continued proceedings with an update on latest developments, demonstrating new planned initiatives for IAPA.
Outgoing Latin American chair, Vicente Orlando, led the formalities of the rest of the meeting, which consisted of presentations from representatives of each of the member firms throughout the region. Just before the AGM, an open discussion session invited delegates to share their experiences over the past 12 months, as to their local economies, practices and service lines, amongst other matters deemed of interest to the rest of the group, sharing and imparting knowledge.
Saturday night was a fantastic evening of fine dining, rum, tequila, and expert dancing to Latin music from a local, live band. A great time was had by all and once again we must congratulate our IAPA host firm, Paredes, Saravia & Asociados, S.C, for organising such a wonderful event. Sunday was a final day for informal networking as the group undertook a tour of a coffee plantation and visited Guatemala City.
Stephen commented: “This was my first experience of an IAPA Latin American meeting and it was such an amazing experience. Despite the many problems throughout much of Latin America - economical, financial and political - I was greeted by delegates and guests from IAPA member firms who were full of passion, optimism and dedication to work hard, learn from each other, and do the best they possibly could to succeed in their businesses and in life.”
A highlights video of the event can be seen HERE and a video of interviews with some Latin American members can be viewed HERE
