In this week’s #SGSafeEventAmbassador spotlight, we speak to Ignatius Tong, Event Project Manager of ie IDEAS Pte Ltd as he shares the journey in becoming a certified SG SafeEvent Ambassador and how it will help the event industry provide a sense of assurance.

1. Tell us a little bit about what you do 

I’m currently an Events Project Manager with a portfolio of managing both B2B and B2C events, from smaller scale industry focused networking sessions to conventions attracting over 10,000 participants. With a combined 10 years of event experience, I assist my clients in putting together their events end to end by recommending venues, curating content, sponsorships, media relations, licensing, operations and logistics. I ensure each event is executed based on their expectations, budget and overall achieving their objectives desired from the event. With the current endemic, events have also pivoted to hybrid and/or virtual format which I would advise my clients in the respective platforms to explore holding their events as well keeping in mind to adhere to the current latest SMM regulations in place.

2. What inspired you to become a SG SafeEvent Ambassador 

When the company first heard about the SG SafeEvent Ambassador course, we knew it would be beneficial for everyone to participate and it allows us to be better prepared for the future of events organising, while living with the endemic. It was also the potential positive contribution I could make to each event I’m involved in that inspired me to become a SG SafeEvent Ambassador. As a SG SafeEvent Ambassador, I would be able to practice what I have learned and help each event participants to better understand why we are doing what we are doing, which would allow them to participate in more events safely in the future.

3. What are the key learnings and skills you picked up from the course and how will it benefit you in your work? 

Personally, when I learnt more about the contents of the course, I could see how it can help an event organiser to plan better with the necessary SG SafeEvent Standard and other Safe Management Measures requirements in place as this protects the participants as well as our client thus providing the best event experience for everyone. The main takeaway from the course would be the knowledge of the various Safe Management Measures requirements for MICE and Events, the roles and responsibilities of SG SafeEvent Ambassador as well as communication skills taught, that allows us to practice diplomacy to influence attendees to adhere to the various safe measure managements. With the above learnings I was able to advise my clients better in their events beforehand and on the ground communicate with the participants more effectively.

4. Why would you encourage others to be a SG SafeEvent Ambassador? 

I strongly encourage others to be a SG SafeEvent Ambassador as you can play an important role in the event space putting what you have learned to practical use and personally feel the impact you can make for each event. Also, the course equips you well for planning and executing any events with the necessary Safe Management Measures in place, as well as the soft skills needed to deliver world class service standards via effective communications.

If you’re interested in becoming a SG SafeEvent Ambassador, click here to find out more, or contact us at [email protected]