More than thirty nationalities at BUas for the World Leisure Congress
From 25 to 28 August, the World Leisure Congress took place at Breda University of Applied Sciences. Academics and industry partners from around the world visited the campus and engaged in discussions about the theme 'Leisure for a Better Society'. Marcel Bastiaansen, Professor in Leisure & Tourism Studies, reflects: "The congress was a unique opportunity to become inspired and expand your network through the wealth of expertise in the field of Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality."
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How do you look back on the World Leisure Congress?
Marcel Bastiaansen: "Firstly, I feel a sense of pride that we as BUas have managed to present ourselves so beautifully on the international, global academic stage, as well as to our local industry and also to our partners from Breda municipality and Breda Marketing. I have a lovely memory of the opening session in the Grote Kerk, with amongst others Mayor Depla of Breda in that magnificent setting. The international community in particular was very impressed by this."
Why was this congress organised?
"To explicitly position BUas as one of the major international players in the field of Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality by organising the largest academic congress in the world in this field. That succeeded remarkably well!"
It was an international congress—from which countries did the participants come?
"From more than thirty different countries, from the Philippines to Canada and from Brazil via South Africa to New Zealand."
What were your highlights of the congress?
"I look back with great pleasure on the opening in the Grote Kerk, but also the industry day, organised by CELTH, where a natural mix emerged of local industry partners and international academics. The strategic table with the Breda mayor, Breda CEOs and BUas about the future and positioning of Breda was also very valuable."
Have you made new connections for your own research or professorship?
"Certainly! For example, I have concrete collaboration plans with the Experience Lab of the Natural Resources Institute in Finland and with Calpoly in California in the USA."
Is there anything else you'd like to say about the World Leisure Congress?
"BUas can be proud that they have been host to such a wonderful and major event!"
