The World Trade Center St. Louis’ Growing Global 2021 virtual event featuring Carnival Corporation & PLC’s CEO and President Arnold Donald was held on Friday, September 24.

The theme for this years’ event was “Lessons in Global Leadership.” KMOX personality Debbie Monterrey was the emcee for this timely event.

“Global leadership during a pandemic is truly unchartered territory for any CEO. With the help of Mr. [Arnold] Donald and a few others, there are lessons you too can apply to your organization or business,” Monterrey said.

Global leadership during a pandemic is unchartered territory for any CEO of our time. Attendees at this year’s event heard how St. Louis’ own Arnold Donald navigated Carnival Corporation & PLC, one of the largest leisure travel companies in the world to set sail for calmer waters. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and financial fortitude, the company has emerged from the COVID-19 crisis perhaps, stronger than ever.

“Stay the course. Make sure you can survive and prepare to come back strong. Don’t waste a crisis,” Donald said.

The Global Ambassador Award went to Ann Pardalos, former Manager, International Trade and Investment Office at Missouri Department of Economic Development.

“Ms. Pardalos has dedicated her life to leading the charge for Missouri to export Missouri goods,” said Tim Nowak, Executive Director of the World Trade Center St. Louis.

The event also featured remarks from Mayor Tishaura Jones, County Executive Dr. Sam Page, Governor Mike Parson, Former Governor Jay Nixon and Former Governor Bob Holden and Rodney Crim, CEO and President, St. Louis Economic Development Partnership.

“This year’s event highlighted the issues facing companies as they continue to navigate through the pandemic,” said Crim, “Mr. Donald inspired us as we learned how his company navigated this unprecedented time.”

If you were not able to attend this year’s event, you can watch it here.