December Newsletter
Here’s the latest news, updates and information from the Global Speakers Summit 2026 team.
Recognising our Sponsors
As we prepare for GSS 2026, we extend our sincere thanks to our remaining Sponsors, whose support helps bring this extraordinary event to life.
We gratefully acknowledge:
Susan Dean – Dean Publishing, where purpose meets publishing.
Jane Anderson – Practice Growth Expert, with 20+ year’s experience in business growth
Kylie Duncan-Tiver – MTA Mobile Travel Agents, official travel partner for the GSS
Amanda Hietter – Across the Horizon Travel, specialists in creating transformative retreats.
Nikki Cali – Speaker Linq.Empowering course creators to share their expertise with ease
Vaibhav Nahata – SpeakerVideos.Helping speakers get better social media coverage
We would also like to recognise the following sponsors:
Melinda Hird – Official Photography Sponsor
Joe Heaps – eSpeakers.GSS Magazine Sponsor
Finally, our Event Sponsors
Warwick Merry – Eventee App Partner
Sarah Cordiner – Tekmatix, Technology Event Partner
Accor – Accommodation Partner
We are proud to have these partners on board.Their involvement goes far beyond sponsorship, they are active contributors to the success, professionalism, and delegate experience of the Summit.
To learn more about our Bronze Sponsors and all our event partners, visit the official GSS 2026 site: gss2026.com/our-partners
Please join us in thanking them for helping create an event that brings our global speaking community together in such a meaningful way.
Behind the Scenes
As we count down to the Global Speakers Summit 2026, we’re taking a moment to spotlight the heart behind the curtain, the volunteers and visionaries working to bring GSS to life.
From curating a world-class program to designing the delegate experience, this international team is creating a space where stories, strategy, and speaker success will collide. Their work is fuelled by passion, precision, and a shared belief in the power of gathering live, in person, in one place, Brisbane, March 2025.
This summit isn’t just another event; it’s a crafted moment in time. Those moments are being shaped by speakers like you, who’ve stepped into leadership, logistics, and legacy roles to ensure GSS is nothing short of unforgettable.
Let’s introduce some of the faces behind the scenes and if you feel the buzz, why not bring a colleague into the GSS community? Now’s the time to plan, register, and get ready for the global conversation.
Meet the Team
If you pass by one of these people in the hallway in Cairns, remember to thank them for their service, together that have put in countless hours to make this event the huge success it is going to be.
Raise a Glass, Make a Connection, Welcome to GSS
Once the official opening of the Global Speakers Summit concludes around 5:45pm on Friday 13th March, it’s time to head just 2 minutes across the road to Hemingway’s Brewery, a stunning waterfront venue and the site of our exclusive GSS Welcome Function.
We’ve secured the entire venue for our group of 450 speakers to connect, catch up, and kick off the Summit in true professional style. Indoors or out, you’ll find plenty of space to relax, enjoy the breeze off the Cairns Inlet, and share great stories with even greater company.
You’ll be welcomed with grazing stations full of cheeses, cold meats, crackers, and nuts, followed by pizza boards, burger sliders, and hearty food that needs two hands. Local craft beers, regional wines, and non-alcoholic drinks will be flowing, too.
Important: To gain entry, you must be wearing your official GSS lanyard. NO LANYARD, NO ENTRY! Our volunteers will be checking at the door, so please help us keep things smooth by arriving with your lanyard visible, no awkward moments needed.
This fully catered event runs for 2 to 3 hours, but you’re welcome to stay on and enjoy the venue at your own pace and expense after that.
Get ready to kick off the Summit with great food, flowing conversation, and the best company you could ask for. See you there.
Final Program Announcement Coming Soon
The final speaker program for the Global Speakers Summit is almost ready to be revealed.
All final bids to speak have now been submitted and are currently being evaluated by our CSP assessment team. With so many high-calibre submissions, this process is both thorough and highly competitive.
If you’ve put your name forward, please keep an eye on your inbox for a notification confirming whether or not you’ve secured a speaking slot.
We know that for many, the opportunity to present at GSS is deeply meaningful. If your bid is not selected this time, please don’t be discouraged. The field is exceptionally strong, and the standard of submissions has been outstanding across the board.
There will be many opportunities to learn, contribute, and connect throughout the Summit, whether you’re on stage or in the audience. Every speaker brings value to the room, and your presence helps create the energy and excellence GSS is known for.
We look forward to sharing the full program with you very soon. It promises to be a vibrant, diverse, and powerful line-up.
Gala Awards Dinner, A Night to Remember
Mark your calendars for Monday evening, 6:00pm, 16 March, as we bring the Global Speakers Summit to a spectacular close with our Gala Awards Dinner.
Commencing at 6:00pm with pre-dinner drinks, this evening will be the crescendo of the event, where we celebrate the standout contributors, thought leaders, and changemakers from our hosts, Professional Speakers Australia and the Global Speakers Federation.
This is a formal, black-tie occasion, so come prepared to glam up and shine. Whether it’s classic elegance or a creative twist, this is your night to dress your best.
In honour of our global community, we warmly encourage attendees to wear formal attire that reflects their cultural traditions. With 21 countries represented, we know that “formal” looks different around the world. So yes, if you’re from the Netherlands and want to wear your wooden shoes, go right ahead.
This night is about excellence, connection, and celebration. Join us for an evening of inspiration, recognition, and unforgettable memories as we honour the very best in the speaking profession.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
Until next time
Lindsay Adams OAM CSP
Convention Chair
On behalf of the GSS 2026 team
