Conferences: A Blend of Networking, Learning, and Reconnecting

Introduction

Every now and then, an opportunity comes knocking, and you just can't resist saying yes. I had one such opportunity recently, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Andrew Gomez, Director at Lipis Advisors, and Alaina Gimbert, SVP & Associate General Counsel at The Clearing House, for inviting me to join them at the Fall meeting of the Payments Innovation Alliance. This event turned out to be an exceptional platform for us to share insights and explore the ever-evolving world of payments.

Exploring Cross-Border Payments

One of the highlights of the event was our presentation on "Instant Cross-Border Payments: The Last Frontier?" As someone deeply invested in the realm of Cross-Border Payments, I always find it exhilarating and humbling to take the stage. What makes these occasions truly special is the opportunity to learn from fellow experts. Alaina brought a valuable regulatory perspective that made me pause and reconsider my position – a truly enriching experience. I look forward to further discussions and idea-sharing with her.

I've also had the privilege of sharing the stage with Andrew before, and his insights into the UK/EU payments space have always fascinated me. Andrew, thank you once again for having me on board. Anytime my perspectives can contribute, count me in.
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Networking and Reconnecting
One of the most rewarding aspects of conferences is the chance to reconnect with familiar faces and establish new connections. I was delighted to meet DJ Seeterlin and finally get to meet Brian Laverdure in person. It's always a pleasure to see my friends from Good Labs, great seeing you Orlando Santos and Peter Tapling, who's something of a Jedi Master when it comes to introductions. And of course, no conference would be complete without acknowledging the remarkable work of Jennifer West and Jami Senter, the masterminds behind these fantastic events.

The Bonds of Friendship: Framily

Conferences offer more than just professional development; they create a platform for friendships to flourish. Over the past three years, I've encountered many of the same faces at various events, and it's led me to consider many of you as part of my road family. It might sound a bit hippie-esque, but these connections are where we find each other. Sharing meals and life experiences with these individuals is a privilege I cherish.

Room for Improvement

While conferences are invaluable for networking and knowledge-sharing, I acknowledge that there's room for improvement, especially in maintaining and nurturing these relationships. It's something I'm committed to working on because I firmly believe that these connections can only open more opportunities for growth in the payments and risk industry. My experiences tell me that I'm not alone in this, as I've observed similar interactions among my peers, particularly at Payments Innovation Alliance meetings.

Not All Conferences Are Created Equal

Lastly, it's essential to recognize that not all conferences in the payments sphere are the same. With the demands of a day job and the vast array of events available, constant travel isn't always feasible. Some conferences align seamlessly with our professional goals, while others might seem more focused on entrepreneurial ventures or less welcoming to consulting perspectives. Then there are those events that feel like a never-ending party, sprinkled with opportunities to network, and gain insights into the future of payments companies.

In conclusion, conferences in the payments industry offer a unique blend of networking, learning, and reconnecting. These are where expertise is shared, bonds of friendship are formed, and new opportunities arise. While there's always room for improvement and not all events are identical, these gatherings remain a cornerstone of professional growth and camaraderie in our ever-evolving field.