A Global Platform for a Global Cause
The World Congress on Family Law & Children’s Rights is a major international conference held every four years, bringing together a global network of professionals to advocate for and advance the rights of children, youth, and families. For its 9th edition, held in Cambridge, UK, the Australian-based organising committee appointed Opening Doors & Venues (OD&V) as their professional conference organiser following an introduction from Meet Cambridge.
With decades of experience delivering events for international clients, OD&V was entrusted with end-to-end conference management: from seeking tax advice and applying for UK VAT registration, to overseeing complex logistics and developing a compelling programme while delivering a seamless delegate experience.
International Collaboration, Local Execution
One of the first challenges was to bridge the geographical divide. The entire organising committee, including the Chair and Co-Chair, was based in Australia. OD&V established a robust remote meeting structure, ensuring effective collaboration across time zones and maintaining project momentum from day one.
To meet UK financial compliance, OD&V facilitated the implementation of the appropriate UK VAT procedures. As a member of ABPCO (Association of British Professional Conference Organisers), OD&V leveraged its professional networks to secure specialist tax advice and connect with trusted suppliers—delivering a compliant setup for international operations.
Each of the venues used, West Road Concert Hall and the Faculty of Law, presented various challenges, some related to access and set-up times – due to other client events or opening times outside of term or that they were academic buildings not usually open to a large external conference. OD&V’s experience of identifying the potential hurdles early on was crucial in ensuring timely set-ups and a safe on-site environment.
Post-Pandemic Revival: Rebuilding from the Ground Up
Having not met in person since 2017 due to the pandemic, the Congress had limited foundation data; therefore, OD&V supported the committee in building the 2025 edition from the ground up - facilitating productive planning meetings and balancing viewpoints all with the ultimate goal of shaping a vibrant and relevant programme that reflected the evolving global context.
The final event featured a professionally staged opening ceremony with live music and keynote addresses; a welcome drinks reception at King’s College; a three-day programme of engaging plenary sessions and expert panel discussions; and a gala dinner hosted at the historic St John’s College, as well as networking and VIP receptions.
OD&V worked hand-in-hand with professional lighting and sound engineers, Venue Audio Visual, to ensure flawless production and stage management. Every detail, from AV checks to VIP arrivals, was managed with precision.
A Partner Programme Showcase
Understanding that many delegates were travelling with partners or family, OD&V developed a bespoke partner programme that allowed guests to experience the best of Cambridge and its surroundings.
From crafting exclusive tours to managing bookings and transport logistics, OD&V delivered a stress-free and memorable experience for attendees. Highlights included guided walking tours with local historians and visits to iconic attractions and hidden gems.
A Resounding Success
By combining strategic thinking, logistical expertise, and a deep understanding of international event delivery, OD&V successfully delivered a world-class conference that met the highest professional standards.
From the moment planning began to the final applause, OD&V was there - solving problems, anticipating needs, and ensuring the client could focus on their mission and message.
