ICA Conclave 2026: Taking authors beyond publishing to new possibilities

Publishing a book is a significant milestone in a writer’s journey, but it does not have to be the final destination. For authors, a published book can open doors to greater visibility, professional credibility, speaking opportunities and new avenues for growth. Recognising this potential, the International Council of Authors (ICA) organised its first dedicated ICA Conclave 2026 on September 19 and 20 at Renaissance Goa, Arpora, Goa.

Held under the theme “Connect. Create. Celebrate.” and the message “Your Next Chapter Begins Here,” the two-day conclave brought together approximately 50 participants, including ICA members, their families and friends. The event was designed to provide authors with an opportunity to celebrate their achievements while exploring possibilities beyond publishing.

The conclave was envisioned by Jatin Gupta, popularly known as Inspiring Jatin, Founder of the International Council of Authors, Author Coach, TEDx Speaker, Life Coach and Four-Time International Bestselling Author. His vision was to create a platform where authors could experience learning, networking, recognition and opportunities to showcase their expertise.

Jatin Gupta says it is an achievement to be an author, but it is also a great need to explore new possibilities after publishing. The philosophy was embodied throughout the event, with a blend of professional development, recognition and personal growth.

Connect. Create. Celebrate.” was the theme that spoke of the three pillars that were an integral part of the author's journey. Linking in relationships and possible partnerships, creating were focused on finding new ideas and opportunities. In recognition of the efforts and accomplishments of authors, Celebrating was established. The goal was to bring home more than memories, but also new connections, new views and new plans for the future.

Writing was the theme of ICA Conclave 2026, with a highlight being the author recognition and awards ceremony, honoring the dedication and achievements of writers. Another memorable touch was onstage book launches, in which the authors were on a platform with other published authors and their friends. Many writers spend months or years writing a book. A recognition of that commitment and a celebration of their progress with confidence, however, was offered by the public.

Incorporating families and friends enhanced the personal nature of the event. It was important to ICA to acknowledge and celebrate these accomplishments, given that family is a key part of an author's life. The clique's presence turned the conclave into a more than a professional event and it became a time to celebrate achievements with individuals who had helped the participants throughout their journey.

A major project was the curated speaking opportunity for members of the ICA community. It received over 25 applications among which 7 participants are selected based on their subject matter expertise and value addition they can provide to the audience. The project was a response to ICA's desire to provide forums for its members to share their expertise, communicate their ideas and be heard.

The expert sessions featured topics such as health and wellbeing, mindset management, financial freedom, mindfulness, visibility, authority building and storytelling. These themes emphasised an important facet of Jatin Gupta's vision-an author's development is not limited to writing. The acquisition of communication skills, the personal well-being, the attitude and the involvement in the audience are all related to the construction of a sustainable professional identity.

In addition to the learning sessions, there were activities to promote introspection and self-development aspects of the conclave. Guided meditation and a glass-walking activity gave participants a chance to practice mindfulness and to build confidence and overcome perceived limitations.

Another interesting feature was the unique “Next Tiger Wall”. The event was inspired by the Tiger as a symbol of Courage, Determination and Ambition and was designed to see the participants setting a great aspiration which they wanted to attain before the next conclave either personally, professionally or in their businesses. The process gave participants the opportunity to articulate their goals and aspirations, and to make them tangible. The message that was being delivered was very simple: “Get over your fear, set your next goal and take action towards it every day.”