Conferences

GBSN Beyond: Annual Conference 2024

GBSN Beyond

Hosted By

Placed in the dynamic administrative and business capital of Colombia, GBSN Beyond 2024 is about the innovative work of business and management schools to unlock the power of people within the planetary boundaries for more inclusive, innovative and sustainable growth, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The conference is hosted by Universidad de Los Andes School of Management, which is situated in the heart of Bogotá and an established leader with impact in the whole region.

The conference builds on Latin America’s remarkable strengths, such as a young and highly entrepreneurial population, extensive biodiversity and natural riches, and advantages in renewable power generation, improvements in income distribution and remarkable digital connectedness. These strengths position the region to play an important role in the global transformation towards more responsible economic growth. But there are also important challenges to address, including long-standing income inequalities, lagging productivity, low workforce participation by women, expansive health and technological divides, an undeveloped industry and innovation ecosystem, and more.

These opportunities and challenges form an impressive and compelling backdrop for participants to consider important questions for their work. What are emerging areas of focus for leading business and management schools in contributing to economic growth that empowers more people, in harmony with our planet? How are business schools transforming themselves and working together and across sectors to prepare people to build better organizations for our future? In what ways are organizations like GBSN assisting schools to make a bigger difference at home as well as abroad by connecting across borders?


Business schools are ideally placed to be the nexus between government, business and civil society in shaping a collective response to our most critical challenges.

GBSN Beyond is about breaking the traditional boundaries of business education. It highlights and supports business school efforts to transform society—to build more inclusive and sustainable communities, especially in the developing world. GBSN Beyond 2024 will take place November 6-8 in Bogotá, Colombia, hosted by the Universidad de los Andes.

As GBSN enters the 21st year since its founding, we continue to learn, grow, and evolve through partnership with our members. The conference offers a program of keynotes, panel discussions, lightning talks, networking activities, and more. Go Beyond the ordinary and join us as we convene to develop actionable solutions.

GBSN Beyond â€” in its fifth year since its evolution from a traditional annual conference format — serves as a unique and intimate international forum that convenes over 200+ participants in-person from over 50+ countries.

With an innovative approach to what a conference can be, GBSN Beyond provides a variety of engaging learning experiences, knowledge exchanges, and opportunities to network and connect with colleagues from across the globe. 

The conference offers a program of keynotes, panel discussions, lightning talks, networking activities, and more. Go Beyond the ordinary and join us as we convene to develop actionable solutions.

ACADEMIA

University leaders, including Rectors, Deans, Directors and Administrators from developed, emerging and frontier markets. Students welcomed virtually.

INDUSTRY

Professionals from industry dedicated to addressing economic and social challenges effectively and efficiently.

GOVERNMENT AND CIVIL SOCIETY

Professionals from industry, aid organizations, and civil society dedicated to addressing economic and social challenges effectively and efficiently.

Stay Informed

Subscribe to the mailing list and be the first to receive information on all things GBSN Beyond.


Via Email

beyond@gbsn.org

Practical Information


Hosted By

GBSN Beyond 2024 will be accessible both virtually and in-person, in the city of Bogotá. Leading academic faculty, leaders and administrators, professionals from industry and civil society are invited to join us in-person in Colombia.

In-Person Participation


Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is the capital of and largest city in Colombia. It is a place of convergence for people from all around the country and is therefore diverse and multicultural. Within this city, the past and present come together.

The city is also very green thanks to its parks and the hills that extend along its eastern boundary, dwarfed by their two highest points, Monserrate and Guadalupe. The landscape that the people of Bogotá enjoy daily—the sea of green that makes up the Andes mountain range, rising up in the east—would be nearly impossible to find in any other large city.

The capital of Colombia is located in the Andean Region, which extends throughout the center of the country. Bogotá sits in the Cundiboyacense plateau and on the savanna that bears its name, at an altitude or elevation of 2,600 meters above the sea level.

Conference Location

Universidad de Los Andes

Cra 1 No. 18A – 12, Bogotá, Colombia, 111711

Universidad de los Andes was founded in 1948, and it was the first private university in Colombia that was independent from political or religious movements or parties. It was conceived as a study center, a research center, and a place where truth could be upheld. The triple-accredited School of Management, founded in 1972, is recognized for high-quality research and educational programs and an extensive network of academic and corporate partners.

Welcome Dinner – Wednesday, 6 November

Claustro de las Aguas

Carrera 2 No. 18A – 58, Bogotá, Colombia

Claustro de Las Aguas is a historic gem that reflects the city’s rich colonial past. Originally built in the 17th century as a convent, the building has served various religious and cultural functions throughout its history. Its architecture features traditional Spanish colonial design, with arched corridors, stone walls, and quiet courtyards that have stood the test of time.

Dinner Reception – Thursday, 7 November

Andrés D.C.

Cl. 82 #12-21, Bogotá, Colombia

38 years ago in Chía, Cundinamarca (municipality located 20 kilometers from Bogotá), Andrés D.C. was established. This iconic Colombian restaurant is recognized for its extravagant decoration, delicious dishes, and spectacular rumba. This restaurant and bar is full of color, vibrance and flavor.

Hotel Accommodations

GBSN has reserved blocks of rooms at the two hotels listed below — Hilton Bogotá and Embassy Suites. Daily transportation will be provided from both locations to the conference venue and evening social venues.

Hilton Bogotá

Cra 7 No. 72-41, Bogotá, Colombia

The Hilton is located in the financial district in North Bogotá. Its location sits two kilometers of Zona Rosa – home to the city’s premium shopping, dining, and nightlife. The downtown area and Bogotá Botanical Garden are just 20 minutes away. Stop by their rooftop bar to take in views of the city, and enjoy access to their fitness center and heated outdoor pool.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Bogotá Rosales

Calle 70 No. 6-22, Bogotá, Colombia

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Bogotá Rosales is located in the heart of Bogotá’s financial and commercial district. Shops and eateries are within walking distance, and attractions such as Park 93, Bogotá Botanical Garden, and the Gold Museum are within four miles. Enjoy free made-to-order breakfast and a complimentary evening reception.

How to Book

GBSN Beyond has a room block November 5 – November 11. To book a room at the discounted rate, select “Book a Room” at the following link.

Visa Information for Colombia

Prior to Your Departure

Citizens from the following countries do not need to obtain a visa prior to their arrival: European Union citizens, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina*, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia*, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil*, Brunei, Canada, Chile*, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Equador*, El Salvador, Fiji, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong (up to 180 days), Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Micronesia, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay*, Peru*, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Suriname, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay*, Vatican City, Venezuela*

If your country is listed above, you do not need a Visa to enter Colombia; however:

  • You MUST have a valid passport for six months beyond your arrival date. If not, then you need to renew your passport at least three months before your departure date to avoid any unforeseen delays
  • Before coming to Colombia, it is important to check with the Colombian consulate or embassy in your country about changing visa regulations.

If your country is NOT listed above:

  • For visitors that require a Visa, they must apply to it in the nearest Colombian consulate in their country of residence. This procedure can take from 15 days up to 1 month.
  • It is recommended to begin this process August 1st to ensure you receive a visa for the correct time time period.
  • Citizens of Cambodia, China, India, Macau, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days if they have an existing short-stay visa or residency permit issued by the USA or any Schengen Area country. This document must be valid for at least 180 days beyond the date of your arrival in Colombia.
  • Citizens of most nations in Africa, Asia and the Middle East (plus some other countries) are not eligible for visa-free access and must apply in advance for a visitor visa to enter the country. There’s a full list of countries and territories whose citizens require a visa on Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
  • Applications for tourist visas should be filed online and the cost varies depending upon your nationality and the country where you are located when applying. Expect to pay around US$82 for the visa, which is usually valid for a stay of up to 180 days. Make sure you have all of your documents ready before you begin the application process online – the website times out after 30 minutes, deleting any progress you’ve made up until that point.

Visitors that require a VISA are responsible for arranging an appointment and presenting the complete documentation listed below. This process can be made online:
a. Filled visa application form
b. Passport with at least two blank pages and valid for a minimum of 180 days before
expiration
c. A photocopy of the main page of the passport
d. One digital copy of a recent color photograph (white background 3cm x 4cm)
e. Official invitation letter sent by Universidad de los Andes

  • Universidad de los Andes can offer specific guidance to visitors throughout this process (Please contact: Ana Maria Aguilera: a.aguilera@uniandes.edu.co)
  • It is sole responsibility of each visitor to organize all processes related with their visa application. Please be further informed at your local Colombian consulate as procedures may change depending on the country. In addition to the mentioned
    documents, other paperwork might be required.
  • IMPORTANT: Visitors who have a nationality belonging to the restrictive list, but who have a second nationality/passport that does not require visa to enter to Colombia, are required to use the non-restrictive passport, so they can enter the country without going through a visa procedure.

*Can enter with only their ID card.
Please contact Emma Martens at emartens@gbsn.org if you need any conference documentation for a visa application.

Travel

Travel By Air
The major airport in Bogotá is El Dorado International Airport (BOG). The airport is approximately 30 minutes to downtown Bogotá by car.

Conference Travel

GBSN will provide transportation to all conference activities from the two conference hotels, Hilton Bogotá and Embassy Suites by Hilton.

Getting Around Bogotá

It is recommended to use apps like Uber, Cabify, DiDi or authorized cabs for the rides between the airport, hotel and elsewhere around the city. Using these services is safe to use and highly recommended.

Dress Code

The dress code for the conference, Welcome Dinner and Dinner Reception is business casual.

Weather in Bogotá in November  

In November, Bogotá typically experiences pleasant temperatures and can receive heavy rainfall. Throughout the day, temperatures typically settle at around 68°F/ 20°C. But by evening, they drop to around 52°F/11°C. Bogotá in November falls under the rainy season which can experience heavy rainfall, averaging just over 15 days in the month. We recommend bringing an umbrella, rain jacket and packing light clothing with a jacket for the evenings in case of inclement weather.

Altitude

At an elevation of 2,600 meters, some visitors to Bogota may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Visitors are encouraged to follow recommendations for high-altitude travel including drinking a lot of water, avoiding intense exercises, resting properly, and eating well.

Additional Logistical Questions

If you have any additional questions please reach out to the GBSN Beyond team at beyond@gbsn.org.

Registration


Hosted By

GBSN membership is not required to register for GBSN Beyond. Members receive exclusive access to the GBSN Members meeting and a reduced conference registration rate. Registration is open to all business school educators, students and administrators, professionals from industry, aid organizations, and civil society, policy makers and representatives of foundations, aid agencies, NGOs and government officials.

Registration Rates

Online Registration

GBSN is pleased to offer unlimited participation for institutions to engage virtually with key GBSN Beyond sessions.
This registration includes virtual access for an unlimited number of fellow faculty and administrators at your university.

Institutional Online Access
500

Live access to designated keynote sessions
Access to the portfolio of session recordings for up to six months following the event
Virtual networking opportunities with other online participants.

My institution is registered, and I have a registration code.

Individuals from institutions that have purchased the Online Institutional Access must submit an online registration form to gain access to the virtual conference event platform. Please enter your institution’s unique code to ensure all fees are removed.

Online Access for
Leaders, Administrators, Faculty
I have my institution’s code.
Online Access for
Students from all disciplines
I have my institution’s code.

Questions?

All queries related to registration should email beyond@gbsn.org or Emma Martens at emartens@gbsn.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does an organization pay for a registration fee and provide access to its staff, students, faculty, etc.?

The Institutional Online Registration add-on must be purchased by an individual completing their registration. Once registration and payment are complete, GBSN event staff will provide a unique code to share with individuals along with instructions on how to register with the institution’s unique code.

How many individuals can register per organization?

If an institutional online registration has already been purchased, an organization may have an unlimited number of individuals accessing the virtual conference.

Are there scholarships available?

Yes. As part of our commitment to access and inclusivity we are excited to offer a limited number of scholarships for schools in developing countries. Please click here to apply. The number of scholarships we are able to offer is dependent on event sponsorship.

Is there a cancellation policy?

Cancellation more than 30 days before the conference will result in a full refund less a $50 cancellation fee. Cancellation more than 14 days before the conference will result in a 50% refund. Any other cancellation will forfeit their registration fee.

Can I register as an individual to participate virtually?

Yes. If an institutional online registration has already been purchased, individuals can register to participate in the conference virtually.

GBSN Beyond: 2023

The Transformative Power of Talent and Technology

Business schools are ideally placed to be the nexus between government, business and civil society in shaping a collective response to our most critical challenges.

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GBSN Beyond is about breaking the traditional boundaries of business education. It highlights and supports business school efforts to transform society—to build more inclusive and sustainable communities, especially in the developing world. 

2023 marks a milestone in GBSN’s history. GBSN Beyond and 20th Anniversary Celebration will take place OCT 30 – NOV 1 in Cairo, hosted by the American University in Cairo School of Business.

Our theme this year, “The Transformative Power of Talent and Technology,” will explore the fundamental prospects and challenges created by the influence of technology on the future of education, future of work, societal impact and development, and its impact on the way we do business.

We always put people first, enabling and empowering them to create, build, and sustain organizations to solve problems of people and planet. But we cannot ignore the growing power of technology to help people to create a better world, through business and education, and specifically to transform important sectors, such as health, agriculture, energy, and more. 

Similarly, we cannot ignore the challenges that technology brings and the tensions it can create between what’s good for people and the environment. There are new and important questions about human rights, privacy, and equality. And there are tensions between the Global North and the Global South, as well as the East and West, that have important implications for how we think about the future of business and business education.

This year’s GBSN Beyond theme is about opportunities and challenges at the intersection of talent and technology. Sessions will explore the fundamental prospects and challenges created by the influence of technology on the future of education, particularly around learner success and engagement, resource distribution, and the evolution of teaching and learning. We recognize advances are more often generated through collaboration across borders, sectors, and disciplines. So, we encourage proposals that are international, multi-sectoral, and interdisciplinary. GBSN Beyond is about action and impact. Let’s confront these challenges together – in-person and online.

A vibrant hub of exchange, learning, collaboration and discussion.


The COVID-19 pandemic compelled us to acknowledge a global need for cooperation as existing inequalities present multiple challenges. In order to create a space to tackle these critical challenges, GBSN Beyond was born in 2020. As GBSN enters the 20th year since its founding, we continue to learn, grow, and evolve through partnership with our members. GBSN Beyond â€“– an evolution of The Annual GBSN Conference –– is in its fourth year and serves as a unique and intimate international forum that convenes over 1,500+ registrants online and over 200+ participants in-person from over 40+ countries. With an innovative approach to what a conference can be, GBSN Beyond provides a variety of engaging learning experiences, knowledge exchanges, and opportunities to network and connect with colleagues from across the globe. 

The conference offers a program of keynotes, panel discussions, lightning talks, networking activities, and more. Go Beyond the ordinary and join us as we convene to develop actionable solutions.

ACADEMIA

University leaders, including Rectors, Deans, Directors and Administrators from developed, emerging and frontier markets. Students welcomed virtually.

INDUSTRY

Professionals from industry dedicated to addressing economic and social challenges effectively and efficiently.

GOVERNMENT AND CIVIL SOCIETY

Professionals from industry, aid organizations, and civil society dedicated to addressing economic and social challenges effectively and efficiently.


Access Registration


Hear from top leaders in academia, business, civil society and government.


Stay Informed

Subscribe to the mailing list and be the first to receive information on all things GBSN Beyond.


Practical Information

GBSN Beyond 2023 will be accessible both virtually on the Whova platform, and in-person, in the city of Cairo. Leading academic faculty, leaders and administrators, professionals from industry and civil society are invited to join us in-person in Egypt.

In-Person Participation


Cairo

Located on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries. The city itself is a living museum, with countless historical sites and monuments that tell the story of its long and storied past. From the Pyramids of Giza to the ancient mosques and palaces, Cairo is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. The city has a thriving academic community and is home to several world-class universities and research institutions, making it an ideal location for intellectual exchange and collaboration.

Accommodation

GBSN recommends staying at the following hotel. Bus transportation will be provided to and from the hotel and conference venues and activities.

The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa

The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa, Katameya Dunes is a jewel in the center of a prestigious private enclave in New Cairo, Egypt.

How to Book?

You will find the information for your online reservation link below. If you have questions or need help with the link, please do not hesitate to ask.

For Meet & Greet Assistance from Cairo International Airport to the Westin, please email reservations.04091@westin.com with full flight details. Payment for this service is $45 USD.

Conference Locations

GBSN MEMBERS MEETING

The American University in Cairo Tahrir Square Campus

113 Al Kasr Al Aini, Ad Dawawin, Abdeen, Cairo Governorate 11511, Egypt

Monday, 30 October I 2pm – 6:00pm

CONFERENCE PROGRAMMING

AUC New Cairo

First Division New Cairo, Cairo Governorate 4728120, Egypt

Tuesday, 31 October & Wednesday, 1 November

Opening Welcome Reception

The Liberty Yacht

MONDAY, OCTOBER 30th | 6:30 pm

Cocktail Reception & Gala Dinner

Dahab Island Palace

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31st | 7:30pm

Visa Information for Egypt

Prior to Your Departure

  • American citizens, European citizens, and Australians can get a tourist visa upon their arrival at Cairo International Airport valid for one month for $25. Yet it is advisable to apply for an entry visa from your home country
  • You must have a valid passport for six months beyond your arrival date. If not, then you need to renew your passport at least three months before your departure date to avoid any unforeseen delays
  • Citizens from the following countries have to obtain a visa prior to their arrival: Afghanistan, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Canada, Chechnya, Croatia, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Macau, Macedonia, Malaysia, Moldavia, Montenegro, Morocco, Pakistan, Palestine, The Philippines, Russia, Serbia, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Tadzhikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and all African countries
  • Before coming to Egypt, it is important to check with the Egyptian consulate or embassy in your country about changing visa regulations

Please contact Emma Martens at emartens@gbsn.org if you need any conference documentation for a visa application.

Travel

Travel By Air
The major airport in Cairo is Cairo International Airport (CAI). The airport is approximately 40 minutes from the conference venue by taxi.

Conference Travel

GBSN will provide transportation to all conference activities from the conference hotel.

Dress Code

The dress code for the conference is business casual. The dress code for the Gala Dinner is cocktail or national dress.

Weather in Cairo in October & November  

Temperatures in Egypt in October and November are warm. The Egyptian climate is quite warm and dry year-round. Average daytime temperatures in late October are around 75°F (24°C) with highs around 85°F (29°C) and lows of 67°F (19°C). We recommend packing light clothing with a jacket for the evenings.

Additional Logistics Questions

If you have any additional questions please reach out to the GBSN Beyond team at beyond@gbsn.org.

Call for Session Proposals

Business schools are ideally placed to be the nexus between government, business and civil society in shaping a collective response to our most critical challenges.

GBSN Beyond is about breaking the traditional boundaries of business education. It highlights and supports business school efforts to transform society—to build more inclusive and sustainable communities, especially in the developing world. 

We always put people first, enabling and empowering them to create, build, and sustain organizations to solve problems of people and planet. But we can’t ignore the growing power of technology to help people to create a better world, through business and education, and specifically to transform important sectors, such as health, agriculture, energy, and more. 

Similarly, we cannot ignore the challenges that technology brings and the tensions it can create between what’s good for people and the environment. There are new and important questions about human rights, privacy, and equality. And there are tensions between the Global North and the Global South, as well as the East and West, that have important implications for how we think about the future of business and business education.

This year’s GBSN Beyond theme is about opportunities and challenges at the intersection of talent and technology. We recognize advances are more often generated through collaboration across borders, sectors, and disciplines. So, we encourage proposals that are international, multi-sectoral, and interdisciplinary. And, GBSN Beyond is about action and impact, so we are looking for proposals that take learners and scholars into the field and put them to work in our communities.

Session Formats

Multi-Stakeholder Dialogues

This is an opportunity to deep dive into a particular sector/topic, to discuss the current status, share ongoing efforts and explore opportunities for a different future. Dialogues should focus on a conference theme but have liberty with regard to regional or topical focus. 

Sessions must include at least two different stakeholders from a sector, such as: Educator, Student/Recent Graduate, Community Leader, Government Official, Civil Society Representative, and/or Industry Professional. 

Set-up is a panel with no more than 3 speakers and a moderator. 

Duration: 60 minutes (45 mins discussion with 15 mins Q&A)

Lightning Talk

These short, practical showcases of  approaches to management education will be featured in a plenary session.  Presenters are asked to share relevant and transferable examples of how their business school is addressing some aspect of the conference theme. 

Each Talk should have no more than 2 presenters. Powerpoint presentations with 3-5 (no more) slides can be used.

Duration: Set of three Talks in one 60 mins plenary session. Presentations will be 12 minutes each, followed by a 20 mins moderated Q&A.

Breakout Session

Breakout Sessions include short presentations and facilitated discussions around the design, delivery, promotion, impact or administration of management education relevant to the conference theme. Examples could include working across disciplines in your institution, promoting executive education with an ethical stance, building a sector-specific program in collaboration with industry, etc. Proposals can be submitted as a full panel or as an individual speaker. Individual speakers with similar topics will be combined into one session as appropriate.

Up to 9 sessions will be chosen for inclusion on the conference agenda.

Duration: 60 mins

Key Dates.

May 16, 2023

Call for Proposals Opens

August 1, 2023

Call for Proposals Closes

August 23, 2023

Selected speakers are notified

September 7, 2023

Selected speakers to confirm acceptance 

How to submit a proposal?

Session proposals are required to be submitted through the online form. Submissions must include:


  1. Proposed Session Title
    (15-word limit)
  2. Preferred Session Format
    One of the listed formats (Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue, Lightning Talk, Breakout Session)
  3. Session content overview
    that includes the objectives and what participants will take away from the session (300-word limit)
  4. Additional Resources
    (if applicable – strongly encouraged, will be available for attendees to access on the Whova platform). Share links, sources, publications, etc. with participants.
  5. Audience Engagement Every session should include an interactive element that engages the audience (i.e polling, icebreakers, etc.)

General Information.


1. Applicants may submit more than one proposal.

In the case of multiple submissions, only one proposal can be selected for inclusion on the conference agenda. Every effort will be made to ensure diversity is represented on the agenda.

2. GBSN Membership is not required to submit a proposal.

However, priority consideration is given to proposals that include faculty or staff from a GBSN Member School.

3. Do speakers have to pay the registration fee?

Speakers whose proposals are chosen are asked to register and pay the discounted speaker rate of $350. GBSN does not pay speakers fees and does not cover travel expenses.

4. Will there be modifications made to session proposals that are accepted?

GBSN reserves the right to recommend changes to session submissions upon consultation with applicants and consideration of the overall program.

Conference organizers require one-time permission to publish the works on the conference platform and to share presentations online.

6. Can speakers participate virtually?

Session proposals must include speakers who are able to travel to attend the conference in-person.

Submission Deadline: August 1, 2023


Questions?

Questions regarding the Call for Proposals and the submission process may be sent to beyond@gbsn.org.

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