MWC25’s Theme in Focus: Exploring the Meaning of Converge, Connect, Create
Mobile World Congress (MWC) is the central meeting place for people all over the world to come together to connect, share ideas and drive change in the connectivity industry. At Lumine, MWC is something everyone looks forward to. It serves as a hub of knowledge-sharing and an opportunity to celebrate the innovation coming from the communications and media space. To foster collaboration like never before, Lumine will bring together 18 of our businesses in an open-to-all space labeled the “Lumine Pavilion,” which will feature demos showcasing the innovation from these companies.
In addition to the Lumine Pavilion, members of the team from around the world will be attending MWC to meet and network with other business innovators. Lumine understands that technology doesn’t evolve in isolation, it thrives when industries, innovators and decision-makers come together. This year’s MWC theme, “Converge. Connect. Create.,” reflects how industries are coming together to shape the next wave of digital transformation.
As businesses adapt to new technologies and evolving consumer expectations, MWC 2025 will showcase the innovations driving this shift and the collaborations making it possible. Convergence is redefining what’s possible as AI, 5G, cloud, and quantum computing increasingly overlap, unlocking new business models and efficiencies. Connectivity is no longer just about speed—it’s about building seamless, secure, and scalable networks that can support billions of devices while meeting the demands of emerging technologies. And at the core of it all is creation—where bold ideas, from AI-driven automation to sustainable telecom solutions, move from concept to reality. This year’s theme highlights not just where the industry is today, but where it’s headed next.
Ahead of the event, our M&A team members share their insights on this year’s theme and how they’re witnessing developments driving the communications and media landscape.
Arjan Stroomberg, Head of Mergers & Acquisitions | Ontario, Canada
Reflecting on: CONVERGENCE
As I look towards MWC, it’s going to be exciting to witness our Lumine Pavilion, as it’s a physical representation of our growth over the past decade, expanding to over 30 companies within our ecosystem. Our portfolio now has a network of both communications and media companies that continually grow our customer base and allows these businesses to build off one another and learn from one another’s emerging technologies. Their ability to leverage each other’s work allows for long-term growth across the platform.
At Lumine we’ve always been excited to explore emerging technologies shaping the communications landscape and it’s particularly interesting to see how convergence is being defined by MWC; as the influence of new tech on the telecom space and how businesses are leveraging generative AI, 5G, and cloud technologies to enhance operational efficiency. Another way to look convergence in the communications space, is the evolution we’ve seen from having separate mobile and fixed networks to a converged network approach, with solutions for end users that are seamless and provide a superior end user experience as well as providing more opportunity to offer and deliver new use cases for both consumer and enterprise customers supported by AI and Cloud.
We are always looking to add companies into our ecosystem that are developing and implementing technology that enable our service provider customers to grow their end-user base. For example, Axyom Core, one of our 2024 acquisitions and a company trusted by six of the world’s top ten communication service providers, is doing amazing work in the expansion and delivery of 5G networks, with cloud native 5G network functions (CNFs). Their mission is to transform connectivity with 5G core and access solutions, enabling the seamless communication and innovation across the world. That, to me, is convergence in action.
Another great example comes from Motive, a carve-out from Nokia, which offers device management, service management and automation software. Their work is simplifying processes and creating efficiencies in device management for millions of device users globally. We see these examples across our portfolio where our portfolio companies are exploring innovation to drive customer efficiency, end user growth and optimize user experience.
We’re excited to welcome these companies to the Lumine Pavilion this year, alongside several other Lumine businesses. This opportunity showcases how we help businesses strengthen and grow by providing access to proven strategies, innovative solutions, and a team committed to driving meaningful results.
As we look forward to the next year and expanding our portfolio in both Communications and Media, we are also focused on businesses applying this idea of convergence, pushing boundaries, and seeking innovative solutions to everyday functions.
Elliot Yunger, VP of Corporate Development | Ontario, Canada
Reflecting On: CONNECTION
MWC is four days of amazing energy, networking and learning – an environment where innovation thrives. Our team embodies connection in action, seamlessly connecting the right assets, people, and technologies to transform ideas into even greater solutions. At MWC 2025, connectivity is a driving force shaping industries and investments. This year’s Connected Industries Hall (Hall 4) will showcase how businesses across fintech, manufacturing, smart mobility, and entertainment are leveraging mobile technology to enhance operations and customer experiences. While these industries may not be traditional telcos, their increasing reliance on mobile networks, data, and automation presents interesting areas for investment.
These key industry trends highlight how mobile technology is driving transformation across sectors:
- Manufacturing & Production: Digital transformation in manufacturing is projected to grow from $263.9 billion in 2020 to $767.8 billion by 2026, driven by supply chain automation, cost efficiencies, and workplace safety improvements.
- Smart Mobility: The global transportation industry, valued at $7.31 trillion in 2022, is embracing connected vehicle technologies, impacting logistics, shared mobility, and aviation.
- Sports & Entertainment: From immersive fan experiences to AI-powered analytics, mobile technology continues to redefine how audiences engage with sports and live events.
As industries like the ones above become more reliant on mobile technology, new opportunities emerge to invest, partner, and innovate in ways that align with our broader strategy.
Connor Ennis, Senior Director, Corporate Development, Americas | Florida, USA
Reflecting on: CONNECTION
As we get ready for MWC, I’m reflecting on the enormous strides made in our industry with respect to connection. Across North America, telecom enterprises are rapidly adopting emerging technologies to enhance customer experiences and drive innovation, which ultimately enhances connections.
This year, MWC is planning on focusing on the ROI that comes from 5G networks and leveraging their capabilities. I’m eager to see how companies are planning to take these technologies into the next phase of 5G rollouts. MWC plans to launch an Inside 5G series, unlocking this theme with the idea of reflecting on the advancements one year later and connecting it to the business promises.
In the U.S. and Canada, private 5G networks are gaining traction, offering enterprises greater security and operational efficiency. Meanwhile, in Latin America, 5G adoption is accelerating, creating new economic opportunities while also underscoring the importance of policies that ensure accessibility. By 2030, nearly 50% of total mobile connections in Latin America will be on 5G.
MWC25 will spotlight the real return on investment (ROI) from 5G networks—whether through new revenue-generating services, cost efficiencies, strategic partnerships, or regulatory advancements. It will be interesting to see how these developments continue to transform the communications and media landscape.
Darren Smith, Director, Corporate Development, EMEA | Amsterdam, Netherlands
Reflecting On: CREATE
As we look ahead to MWC25, I am inspired by those that create. Across Europe, the future of connectivity isn’t just about speed—it’s about sustainability. Right now, Europe is awaiting a new proposal for sustainability reporting later this month, underscoring how sustainability is shaping the future of telecom. The European Union’s evolving regulations aren’t just about compliance; they’re pushing companies to rethink business models, integrate new technologies, and drive innovation, aligning well with MWC’s focus on creation. Take Dutch telecom providers like KPN, for example. They are pioneering carbon-neutral networks, using AI to optimize energy consumption and blockchain to enhance efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The shift toward sustainable 5G infrastructure and circular economy practices in telecom manufacturing isn’t just a regulatory necessity—it’s becoming a competitive advantage.
At MWC25, the “Our Digital DNA” track will explore how businesses are balancing high-performance networks with greener solutions. What role will AI play in reducing telecom’s carbon footprint? How can sustainability become a growth driver rather than a regulatory burden? These are the conversations that will shape the next phase of telecom innovation. I’m looking forward to seeing how these ideas translate into action at MWC25.
Ciaran Fenner, Senior Corporate Development Associate | Barcelona, Spain
Reflecting On: CONNECTIVITY & CREATE
IoT adoption across Europe continues to accelerate, with the International Data Corporation predicting a rise to 49 million connected devices by 2026. It’s no wonder that MWC is highlighting “Connect” as one of their themes this year. From smartphones linked to smart home systems to industrial applications optimizing efficiency, the integration of IoT is transforming how we interact with technology and with each other. This ever-expanding network of connected devices is creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.
One of the most exciting aspects of attending MWC is seeing these innovations come to life in real time through demonstrations, talks and in connecting with developers. We’re witnessing Spanish telecom providers and media companies at the forefront of this shift, leveraging AI to enable real-time translations, create custom virtual assistants, and enhance internal processes.
As digital ecosystems evolve, the ability to create at scale while maintaining authenticity will be a key differentiator for companies. I think that companies that successfully merge AI and connectivity will drive the next wave of innovation. I look forward to learning more at MWC25 and to understand how industry leaders will explore these possibilities and push the boundaries of what’s next.
Jude Murray, Senior Business Development Associate | Cape Town, South Africa
Reflecting On: CONVERGENCE
Attending MWC for the first time is both exciting and eye-opening—there’s nothing quite like being in the middle of the action where the future of technology is being shaped in real time. Coming from South Africa, where digital inclusion is one of the most pressing challenges and opportunities, I’m eager to see how global innovations in AI, 5G, and connectivity can be applied to bridge gaps and create meaningful change.
Sub Saharan 5G market is experiencing rapid growth, with mobile network operators steadily expanding their coverage. A recent report by a market research firm Africa Analysis highlights the country’s progress, noting a significant rise in 5G adoption, subscriber growth, and competitive advancements within the sector.
This growth phase underscores the increasing demand for fast, reliable, and scalable connectivity to support businesses, consumers, and emerging technologies. With this adoption accelerating, I’m excited to learn how these companies will support broader industry innovations. The momentum I’m witnessing in Africa’s 5G rollout signals an exciting era of African technology provider’s entering the global telecom market and opportunity for international players to partner for growth on the continent, making it a space to watch and I look forward to all there is to still learn at MWC25.
Let’s explore how we can help you navigate the future. We look forward to seeing you at MWC! To learn more about Lumine and discover opportunities that become possible together for your business, book a private meeting with our team at MWC.
Looking forward to seeing you at MWC25
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