(Posted 25th June 2026)
Global Tourism, Government and Business Leaders Set to Gather in Alicante, Spain
(Nigeria, Seychelles, South Africa, Azerbaijan, ASEAN, Jamaica and
Beyond)
The international tourism community is preparing for one of the most anticipated global
gatherings of 2026 as distinguished tourism leaders, government officials, diplomats,
investors, entrepreneurs, and industry experts from across the world are expected to
converge in Alicante, Spain, for the Clevenard Open Project 2026 (5th Edition) and the
Clevenard Global Awards (3rd Edition).
Taking place from 27–30 August 2026 at the prestigious Palacio de Congresos de
Alicante, this four-day international event is set to become a powerful platform for global
dialogue, tourism development, investment opportunities, cultural exchange, business
networking, innovation, and international collaboration.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with some of the world’s
most influential tourism visionaries, policymakers, thought leaders, and change-makers
who continue to shape the future of travel, hospitality, sustainable development, and global
partnerships.
Among the distinguished personalities invited to participate are His Excellency Hon. Mai
Mala Buni, CON, Executive Governor of Yobe State, Federal Republic of Nigeria;
Ambassador Alain St.Ange, Ambassador-at-Large of the Republic of Seychelles and
former Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine; Ms Sibongile Winnie Mavimbela, renowned
South African environmental expert, climate diplomat and human rights advocate; Dr
Abulfas M. Garayev, former Minister of Tourism of Azerbaijan and globally respected
authority in culture, tourism and intercultural diplomacy; His Excellency Mr Nico Barito,
Special Envoy of the President of Seychelles to ASEAN and Founder and Executive
Chairman of FORSEAA; and Hon Edmund Bartlett, OJ, CD, MP, Minister of Tourism
of Jamaica and one of the most influential tourism leaders of the modern era.
These distinguished leaders are expected to deliver inspiring keynote addresses, participate
in high-level discussions, and share practical insights on tourism growth, destination
branding, sustainability, investment, innovation, diplomacy, culture, media,
entrepreneurship, and international development.
The Clevenard Open Project 2026 is rapidly establishing itself as one of Europe’s most
dynamic international platforms, bringing together influential voices from Africa, Europe,
Asia, the Americas, and the Caribbean. The event will also welcome Ambassadors, High
Commissioners, Ministers, Regional Organizations, Chambers of Commerce, Tourism
Boards, Corporate Leaders, Investors, Academics, Media Professionals, and emerging
entrepreneurs seeking to build meaningful partnerships and create lasting impact.
Hon Edmund Bartlett is internationally celebrated for transforming Jamaica into one of the
world’s leading tourism destinations and for championing global tourism resilience.
Ambassador Alain St.Ange remains one of the most sought-after tourism speakers globally,
known for his passionate advocacy of tourism as a force for peace, economic growth, and
international understanding. Dr Abulfas Garayev is widely recognized for
helping position Azerbaijan as a globally competitive tourism destination. His Excellency
Nico Barito continues to play a significant role in strengthening economic and business
cooperation between ASEAN nations and Africa, and Ms Sibongile Winnie Mavimbela is
internationally respected for her leadership in environmental sustainability, climate
diplomacy, and human rights advocacy.
Organisers have confirmed that additional world-class speakers, government dignitaries,
entertainers, business leaders, and international delegates are expected to be announced in
the coming weeks, further strengthening the event’s global profile.
As anticipation continues to build, Alicante is preparing to welcome the world for four
unforgettable days of networking, learning, collaboration, cultural celebration, and
transformational conversations that will help shape the future of tourism, business, trade,
and international development.
The world is coming to Alicante. The question is: will you be there?
CLEVENARD OPEN PROJECT 2026
27–30 August 2026 | Alicante, Spain
Connecting Nations. Empowering Leaders. Creating Global Opportunities.
