Sam Turner is scarcely back from São Paulo, Brazil, with his WorldSkills Bronze Medal in Architectural Stonemasonry than preparations begin for the 2017 competition being held in Abu Dhabi.

The United Arab Emirates delegation at WorldSkills São Paulo 2015 hosted a reception on 14 August to celebrate the WorldSkills competition coming to the Emirates in two years' time. And on 10 August, in a spirited and close vote of the WorldSkills members during the General Assembly, the city of Kazan, Russia, was selected to host WorldSkills 2019.

David Hoey, CEO of WorldSkills International, gives his concluding comments on the 43^rd WorldSkills Competition in São Paulo:

The São Paulo WorldSkills came to an exuberant and joyful conclusion 16 August in a closing ceremony with an audience of nearly 9,000. This competition welcomed more than 1,230 young professionals from 62 countries and regions to compete in 50 different skills. The competitors came to Brazil as the best of their country or region in their skill. They all return home from the competition as WorldSkills Champions.

More than 250,000 people – including global leaders in industry, education, and government – visited the largest WorldSkills competition in history. Many more from around the world joined through digital and social media for information, on-site news coverage, and live-streamed events.

There are many organizations and countless individuals for whom 'thank you' is in order. Experts, delegates and members, sponsors and partners, volunteers in the hundreds (if not thousands) from Brazil and around the world, talented staff, trainers and supporters… all dedicated to making WorldSkills São Paulo 2015 the success it has been.

The WorldSkills movement began in 1950 with two members. At WorldSkills São Paulo 2015 we welcomed representatives from 62 of our now 75 Member countries and regions. All of us have a role to play. Each of us needs to share our knowledge, best practice, and commitment. Together we have the power to transform our world with the power of skills.

Many thanks to everyone. I look forward to the next two years on the journey to WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017.

The United Arab Emirates delegation at WorldSkills São Paulo 2015 hosted a reception on 14 August to celebrate the WorldSkills Competition coming to the Emirates in 2017. More about WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017 and how to get involved is coming in the next few weeks; stay tuned!

On 10 August, in a spirited and close vote of the WorldSkills Members during the General Assembly, the city of Kazan, Russia, has been selected to host the WorldSkills Competition in 2019. The Competition will bring together Competitors, Experts, and industry, education, and government leaders from around the world.