For 2025, UFI leadership selected four well-known industry figures:
- Chen Xianjin, UFI President in 2012–13;
- Michael Duck, UFI President in 2022–23;
- Jo-Anne Kelleway, innovator and long-time industry ambassador;
- and Cliff Wallace, UFI President in 2008–09.
Announcing the honourees, Hugh Jones highlighted the depth and impact of their contributions over several decades.
“Mr. Chen Xianjin devoted four decades to advancing the exhibition industry in China and beyond,” said Jones. “From chairing the Shanghai International Exhibition Corporation and serving as Deputy Director of the Bureau of the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, to leading the China Association for Exhibition Centers, his leadership has raised industry standards. As UFI’s first Asian President, Chen built vital bridges between China and the global exhibition community.”
Jones also praised Michael Duck’s long-standing dedication to the sector. “Michael Duck’s name is synonymous with passion and commitment to the exhibition industry,” he said. “Since joining the Hong Kong Trade Fair Group in 1994, Michael has dedicated his career to building outstanding trade shows across Asia. He served as UFI Treasurer for 20 years and played a key role in opening UFI’s Asia-Pacific office in 2004. As a former UFI President, Michael has been a strong advocate for sustainable events. His dedication and leadership have made a lasting mark on our global community.”
Reflecting on Jo-Anne Kelleway’s influence, Jones noted: “For more than 35 years, Jo-Anne Kelleway has been a driving force for innovation in our industry. As founder of Info Salons, she transformed event registration and data management, introducing new technologies that reshaped how events connect with their audiences. After selling her business to Freeman in 2018, Jo-Anne continued her role as an industry ambassador, something she had been in spirit since day one. Within UFI, she has served as a mentor, an active Working Group member, and an enthusiastic speaker at many events.”
On Cliff Wallace, Jones added: “Over the course of 50 years, Cliff Wallace has shaped the exhibition industry in Asia like few others. Closely involved in all aspects of the expansion of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Cliff’s leadership helped define our industry in the region. During his UFI Presidency, he helped initiate the UFI Global Exhibition Barometer report, which has become a flagship industry study. As a passionate educator and mentor through the Venue Management School, his influence continues to inspire new generations of professionals.”
The Medal of Honour recipients are selected annually by the UFI President in consultation with the UFI Trio, and the awards are presented each year during the UFI Global Congress.
The 2025 recognitions highlight the diverse expertise and global impact of leaders who have played key roles in shaping the modern exhibition landscape, reinforcing UFI’s commitment to honouring excellence within the industry.
Tags: Hugh Jones UFI