The organisers of MIPIM 2024 conference has announced the first-ever cohort of “MIPIM Challengers” - a group of 16 young property professionals under 30 years old who will bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to tackle the most pressing issues in global urban development to the conference in March.
The MIPIM Challengers were selected following an essay competition. Entrants from 20 countries were asked to address the question, "What is the most crucial challenge confronting global urban development, and how can young professionals contribute to its solution?"
Over 150 essays were evaluated for originality, critical thinking, and a global viewpoint by an expert panel comprising Nicolas Kozubek, MIPIM Director; Muyiwa OKI, RIBA President; and Annette Kröger, CEO Europe at PIMCO Prime Real Estate.
The selected MIPIM Challengers represent a diverse range of professions and nationalities, showcasing the breadth of the real estate sector. This group includes architects, investment managers, planners, researchers, and more, hailing from firms and institutions like Remit Consulting from London, Rockfield Real Estate, Barthélémy Griño Architectes, EdenCoast Limited, and the University of Plymouth, among others.
The Challengers will participate in a comprehensive program of events, talks, panels, and networking opportunities at the global event in Cannes, France. A highlight will be a workshop session hosted by UNESCO Ambassador Guila Clara Kessous, culminating in a pitch of their best ideas to a panel of senior leaders in property development and investment.
Nicolas Kozubek, Director of MIPIM, said, “It has been an incredibly exciting and invigorating process to read so many fantastic entries from the future of our industry on how we can solve the biggest challenges our sector faces. Congratulations to everyone who entered - selecting a final 16 was a real challenge in itself as the standard was so high. We cannot wait to welcome our inaugural cohort to MIPIM 2024 to take part in a full programme of events, talks and debates.”
The 2024 cohort will form the foundation of the MIPIM Challengers Network, an ongoing forum designed to foster long-term connections and support future generations in the industry. This network promises to be a vital resource for continual innovation and collaboration in tackling the challenges of urban development globally. The initiative marks a significant step in engaging young talent in the ongoing evolution of the real estate industry, promising new ideas and solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.