Thursday 23rd January 2025.

The Belfast Summit brings together local, national and global experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities for Belfast as we strive to make it one of the best places to live, work and visit in Europe.

Following the success of our February 2024 event, we’re excited to come back bigger and better for our upcoming event on Thursday 23rd January 2025.

Our Partners

Keynote Speakers

  • Ariel Palitz

    NEW YORK'S FIRST NIGHTLIFE MAYOR

    Ariel was the Founding Director of NYC’s Office of Nightlife from 2018 to 2023, appointed by Mayors de Blasio and Adams. A former nightclub owner and community board member, she established the office, addressed systemic issues, and guided the industry through COVID-19. Globally recognized, Ariel now consults governments and the hospitality sector, offering practical solutions for safe, vibrant nightlife.

  • Catherine Gall

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CHAIRE ETI

    Catherine Gall is the Executive Director of Chaire ETI, a leading research center at the Sorbonne in Paris focused on environmental sustainability and innovation. With extensive experience in driving impactful initiatives, she bridges academia, business, and communities to foster sustainable growth. Under her leadership, Chaire ETI has become a global hub for groundbreaking research and solutions.

  • Councillor Gavin White

    EXECUTIVE MEMBER FOR HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT

    Councillor White was elected to represent Old Moat ward in May 2018 and re-elected in May 2021. From 2018-2021, he served on the planning and neighbourhoods committees. As Executive Member for Housing and Development, he oversees Housing Management, Planning, Regeneration, Private Rented Sector, and strategic housing initiatives.

Panellists

  • Joe Babiec

    MANAGING DIRECTOR, BELFAST DISTILLERY COMPANY

  • Kate Kerrigan

    NY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

  • Criona Collins

    HEAD OF RETAIL AGENCY AT LAMBERT SMITH HAMPTON

  • Alistair Beggs

    CHIEF PLANNER, DEPARTMENT FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

  • Clare McGee

    CO-FOUNDER, AWAKENHUB & INNOVATOR NI

  • Kate Bentley

    DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & BUILDING CONTROL, BELFAST CITY COUNCIL

Deep Dive Discussions

Regeneration, Planning & Public Space

This panel will delve into how regeneration and planning can reshape communities, drive economic growth and enhance quality of life. Our key experts will discuss the role of public spaces in fostering connection, accessibility, and sustainable urban development.

Belfast: At a Cultural Crossroad

In Northern Ireland, arts and culture have long been underfunded and overlooked. Following the disappointment over the cancellation of Culture Night for another year, we’ll be exploring why this mindset needs to shift.

Belfast: A hub for investment & opportunity

In recent years, Belfast has become a magnet for businesses and investors globe. This panel delves into the key factors that have positioned Belfast as a leading destination for innovation, investment, and growth.

Belfast: A first-class retail destination

This discussion will focus how Belfast can honour its heritage of craftsmanship while attracting global brands to create a world-class retail experience. By blending tradition with innovation, we’ll explore how to position Belfast as a premier retail destination.