In the world of large-scale live events, where precision meets passion, Cindy Van Pollaert stands out as a true bridge between people, culture, and purpose. As the Happiness Manager and Opportunities Manager at 555 Global Live Experience, Cindy brings over three decades of diverse experience across travel, hospitality, PR, and event production to create emotionally charged experiences that touch hearts around the globe. Her journey from the Flemish Parliament to leading happiness initiatives at international events like F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Qatar GP, and Formula E Diriyah is a testament to her belief that the greatest productions begin with empathy, teamwork, and human connection.
Taim Al Falasi – Can you share your journey into event management, team leadership, and public relations, and what inspired you to become Happiness Manager at 555 Global Live Experience?
Cindy Van pollaert –
My journey into event management and leadership has been anything but linear. Over the past 31 years, I’ve worked in travel, hospitality, management assistance, public relations, and international event production, always very different fields, and always learning on the job itself. Every experience taught me something new about people, resilience, and communication.
When I was working at the Flemish Parliament, I had a wonderful and stable career surrounded by inspiring people. But when I met my second husband, Marc, and saw the incredible world he had built in the international event industry, I felt deep down that I could bring something meaningful to his business. I understood the human side of operations; the emotions, the teamwork, the culture behind the delivery and I knew that’s where my true value could shine.
So I made the choice to leave the Parliament and join him on this international adventure.
That’s how the role of Happiness Manager was born, not from a title, but from a mission.
My passion lies in connecting people, solving problems that others avoid, and making sure that every crew member feels seen, respected, and appreciated.
For me, happiness management is about turning pressure into purpose, and work into shared pride.
Taim Al Falasi – What makes 555 Global Live Experience unique in delivering transformative live events, and how do you contribute to creating unforgettable experiences?
Cindy Van pollaert –
Every project we deliver, whether it’s an international sports opening or a cultural celebration, carries emotion, storytelling, and purpose. We bring together global expertise with a deep respect for local culture, actively integrating local talents so each production truly belongs to the place and its people.
What also defines us is how we treat our team.
At 555, every crew member is seen as a person, not a number. We believe that respect, trust, and kindness are the real foundations of any great show. When people feel valued and supported, they give their best and that energy reaches the audience in ways no light or laser ever could.
As Happiness Manager, my role is to keep that heartbeat strong and to ensure that our teams feel connected, our partners feel appreciated, and that every project we deliver leaves behind not just a spectacle, but meaningful memories for everyone involved.
Taim Al Falasi – Could you share some of the most memorable events you’ve worked on, such as F1 SAGP Jeddah, Qatar GP, or Formula E Diriyah, and your role in their success?
Cindy Van pollaert –
Some of the most memorable events we’ve worked on are without a doubt the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah and the F1 Spa Grand Prix in Belgium.
In Jeddah, the delivery succeeds every year because 555 has built a strong relationship with F1 since 2017, working together on various projects across the globe. That trust and mutual understanding make all the difference. F1 truly understands our way of working, our attention to detail, and the practical realities behind large-scale live productions. It’s a collaboration built on respect and shared ambition.
At the same time, Spa Grand Prix holds a very special place in our hearts. We’ve been creating the Live Experience in Spa for over four years, and every time we return, it feels like coming home. The Spa team works with us in such an open, direct, and human way: smooth collaboration, honest communication, and genuine friendship that deepens year after year.
As Happiness Manager, I deeply value these long-term partnerships. They show that when people work with trust, empathy, and shared purpose, incredible things happen, not just on stage, but behind it too.
Taim Al Falasi – How does the Happiness Program at 555 Global Live Experience enhance fan engagement and create authentic, memorable connections?
Cindy Van pollaert –
The Happiness Program at 555 Global Live Experience is one of the projects closest to my heart, because it reflects what I believe in most; real human connection.
Our Happiness Bees are the soul of the experience. They move among the fans, crew, and guests with one simple mission: to spread kindness, joy, and togetherness.
The most extensive version of this program takes place during the F1 weekend in Spa, where the experience starts long before the event itself. About six months in advance, we launch the online phase; monthly creative challenges that allow fans to win free tickets, unique merchandise, or special access packages. It’s our way of building excitement early and creating a community that already feels part of the experience before arriving at the circuit.
During the race weekend, our Happy Bees bring the magic to life: welcoming fans at the entrance of the fanzone, dancing with the crowd, offering help wherever needed, and creating spontaneous moments of joy. We also organize exclusive VIP paddock tours for genuine superfans, hand out gadgets and ticket upgrades, and stay open to whatever happens because some of the best memories are the unplanned ones.
What makes the Happiness Program unique is its authenticity. Nothing is scripted, it’s all about feeling the moment, reading the energy, and connecting heart to heart.
As Happiness Manager, that’s what fulfills me most: seeing people leave not just saying “it was a great event,” but “I’ll never forget how it made me feel.”
At 555, happiness is not an extra, it’s our philosophy. It transforms how fans experience events, how crews work together, and how every project we deliver becomes a story to remember.
Taim Al Falasi – As Opportunities Manager, how do you identify and develop new opportunities that align with 555 Global Live Experience’s mission and vision?
Cindy Van pollaert –
As Opportunities Manager at 555 Global Live Experience, I see my role as a bridge: connecting people, ideas, and cultures in ways that open new doors for collaboration.
I try to expand my network continuously, not just by collecting contacts, but by building valuable, human connections that align with our values and long-term vision.
Very often, new opportunities start quite naturally through personal interest or through my Min Al Qalb project, which allows me to meet inspiring people from across the Middle East. When they sense my genuine curiosity for the region and later discover what I do with 555, that’s when real conversations begin. From there, ideas flow easily because the connection is based on mutual respect, not sales talk.
Of course, it’s also about using all available tools: online platforms, digital visibility, and physical networking sessions , the latter I honestly should do more often! But in the end, it always comes back to people.
For me, opportunity development is not just about growth; it’s about alignment; finding projects and partners that share our purpose: creating meaningful, transformative experiences that connect hearts and cultures, not just stages and screens.
Taim Al Falasi – How do your skills in HR, sales, public relations, and team leadership come together to ensure seamless event execution and positive experiences?
Cindy Van pollaert –
Over the years, I’ve worked in HR, sales, public relations, and team leadership, and I’ve learned that each of these fields brings something essential to live event management. Together, they form the foundation of how I work today.
My HR background helps me understand people: their motivations, strengths, and limits which is vital when managing large international crews under pressure. My experience in sales taught me how to build trust, communicate clearly, and find win-win solutions, both with clients and partners. Public relations taught me the importance of empathy and tone, how every message, whether internal or external, can inspire connection and confidence.
And as a team leader, I bring all of this together: creating an environment where every person feels valued, respected, and supported to perform at their best. When people feel good, they deliver excellence naturally.
That’s what ensures seamless event execution; not just good planning, but emotional intelligence in action. For me, success is measured not only by what happens on stage, but also by how everyone feels along the way.
Taim Al Falasi – What inspired you to start the Min Alqalb (“From the Heart”) project, and how does it promote cultural understanding between the Middle East/GCC and the world?
Cindy Van pollaert –
Min AlQalb, which means “From the Heart” in Arabic, was born from my personal journey of living and working in the Middle East.
The inspiration actually began during my first project back in December 2021, when I met incredible women who left a lasting impression on me. Among them Nouf Almulaik, who over the years has taught me so much about Saudi Arabia and its people, and Captain Sahar Rasti from Abu Dhabi, whose wisdom and strength continue to teach me more than any book ever could
What started as a creative idea grew into something much deeper; a way to bridge cultures through authentic storytelling, art, and emotion. I wanted to show the true heart of this region by sharing real stories of women whose courage, kindness, and individuality reflect its beauty.
Over the years, I’ve developed genuine friendships with many of the women featured in Min Al Qalb. Some influencers may share similar messages, but the difference is that I bring it from the heart; with no agenda, just respect and connection.
Today, I’m creating a circle of women who all feel connected, each in her own way. To see this community grow, and to witness how it brings women closer together across cultures, fills me with gratitude and joy.
Because in the end, that’s what Min Al Qalb truly stands for: real connections, real emotions, always from the heart.
Taim Al Falasi – How do you approach workplace culture enhancement, team building, and leadership to inspire excellence within 555 Global Live Experience and your teams?
Cindy Van pollaert –
For me, leadership at 555 Global Live Experience is not about hierarchy, it’s about humanity.
I believe that a great workplace culture starts with mutual respect, genuine care, and a shared sense of purpose. In our industry, where pressure and deadlines can be intense, it’s crucial that every crew member respects the others, no matter their role, nationality, or background.
As Happiness Manager, I take that very personally. When I sense that someone from outside the 555 team is disrespectful toward our crew, I step in immediately.
I’ll always stand behind my people first, make sure they’re okay, and then, at the right moment, address the situation clearly and firmly. I often say I’m like a lioness when it comes to protecting our crew. Any behavior that undermines their dignity or teamwork is simply unacceptable.
Our strength as 555 comes from that spirit; a family of professionals who trust one another, communicate openly, and know that their well-being matters.
When people feel seen, supported, and safe, they give their best and that’s when the magic of true excellence happens.
Taim Al Falasi – What trends are you seeing in global live events and experiential marketing in 2025, and how is 555 Global Live Experience adapting to these trends?
Cindy Van pollaert –
In 2025 the world of live events and experiential marketing is evolving fast and I believe we at 555 Global Live Experience are well-positioned to lead with purpose and heart.
Here are some of the key trends I’m seeing:
- AI-Driven Personalization & Humanized Technology
Tools are becoming more emotionally intelligent, responding in real time to attendee behaviour and mood. 
In our work, we’re exploring how to personalise fan journeys not just by name on a badge, but by how people feel and experience the moment.
- Immersive Storytelling, Multi-Sensory & Reactive Environments
The experiences that stick aren’t just seen and heard; they’re felt, touched, sometimes even smelled. Environments that respond to movement, sound or input become part of the story. 
At 555 we’re pushing beyond the stage, creating spaces where the audience becomes part of the show.
- Hybrid + Phygital + Micro-Events
Live is still irreplaceable, but the definition of “live” is changing: smaller, more localised activations; digital touchpoints; global audiences connected virtually. 
We’re adapting by layering digital and physical so our events aren’t one moment only; they become ongoing experiences.
- Purpose-Driven, Sustainable & Inclusive
Audiences increasingly expect authenticity, local relevance, responsible production. Sustainability isn’t optional. Accessibility and inclusion are non-negotiable. 
In all our projects we’re integrating local talent, reducing waste, honouring culture and ensuring every crew and fan feels respected.
- Data-Driven Insights & Real-Time Metrics
Live experiences are increasingly measurable: dwell time, interaction heat-maps, live sentiment. 
We’re building our data capability so that beyond the ‘wow’ moment, we truly understand what moved people, and we translate that into impact.
Here’s how 555 Global Live Experience is adapting:
- Because of our long-standing relationships (with F1, with local partners, etc.), we bring trust and depth: we’re not just executing a show; we’re co-creating with stakeholders who understand our operations.
- On the creative side, we’re designing for depth: detailed audience journeys, local cultural integration, and human-centered interactions (not just tech for tech’s sake).
- We’re layering digital and physical: for example, challenges that start months ahead, online engagement, then live activation, then post-event storytelling.
- We’re embedding sustainability and respect into our processes: local talent integration, mindful logistics, human-first crew treatment (which you know is a core value of mine) so that the culture behind the production aligns with the culture we show to the audience.
- We’re using our data more intentionally: reflecting on what works, being agile on-site, and designing next-level experiences based on real feedback and behavior, not just assumptions.
In short, for 555, 2025 is not just about bigger or flashier. It’s about smarter, more human, more meaningful. It’s about turning trends into opportunities where people feel seen, valued, and moved. That’s the difference we bring.
Taim Al Falasi – What advice would you give to aspiring event managers, PR professionals, or Happiness Managers looking to create extraordinary experiences and leave a lasting impact?
Cindy Van pollaert –
My advice would be: never forget that this industry is built on people, not projects.
You can learn timelines, logistics, or production techniques, but what truly sets you apart is how you make others feel; your crew, your clients, your audience.
For aspiring event managers or PR professionals, focus on emotional intelligence as much as technical skill. Learn to listen, to adapt, to stay calm when everything around you is chaos. Respect every single person on-site, from the security guard to the show caller because without them, the show doesn’t exist.
For those who want to become Happiness Managers: it’s not a title, it’s a mindset.
It’s about seeing people before tasks, keeping the team spirit alive under pressure, and never being afraid to stand up for your crew when they need it most.
Be curious. Stay humble. Keep learning on the job, that’s how I did it for over 30 years.
And most importantly, lead with heart. Because the most extraordinary experiences don’t come from perfection, they come from authenticity, kindness, and connection.
Conclusion
Cindy Van Pollaert’s story is more than a career narrative — it’s a philosophy that happiness, respect, and authenticity can transform any organization from the inside out. Through her work at 555 Global Live Experience and her personal project Min Al Qalb (“From the Heart”), she continues to bridge cultures and inspire individuals to find meaning in connection. Her message resonates far beyond the event world: when we lead with heart, every experience – on stage or behind the scenes – becomes unforgettable.