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Zendaya Allegedly Refusing To Stand Next To "Euphoria" Co-Star Sydney Sweeney For 3rd Season Press Run, Wants NO Association w/ Her 'Racist Ad'
Celebrity News

Zendaya Allegedly Refusing To Stand Next To “Euphoria” Co-Star Sydney Sweeney For 3rd Season Press Run, Wants NO Association w/ Her ‘Racist Ad’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

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Zendaya Allegedly Refusing To Stand Next To “Euphoria” Co-Star Sydney Sweeney For 3rd Season Press Run, Wants NO Association w/ Her ‘Racist Ad’

Zendaya appears to be drawing a line in the sand when it comes to her relationship with #SydneySweeney.

According to insiders who spoke with the Daily Mail, the actress is “refusing” to share stage space with her #Euphoria co-star during the press tour for season 3. One source explained, “It’s a difficult position for #Zendaya to be in because if she even stands next to Sydney on the red carpet, it can be read as her excusing Sydney’s views on Trump and her refusal to apologise for the racist ad.”

The tension reportedly stems from Sweeney’s involvement in a controversial #AmericanEagle jeans ad, one critics labeled a promotion of eugenics, as well as her support for #DonaldTrump. Things allegedly worsened when Sweeney doubled down on the ad in a recent #GQ interview, saying, “When I have an issue I want to speak about, people will hear.”

Chile…at this rate, the red carpet might need assigned seating.


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Events

The Meetings Industry Association unveils 2025 miaList  

by jummy84
written by jummy84

The individuals and organisations who secured a place on the prestigious 2025 miaList were unveiled by The Meetings Industry Association’s (MIA) last night. 

Hosted at the new Masters Suite at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, the miaList once again shone a spotlight on the exceptional talent, innovation and dedication driving success across the business meetings and events sector. 

Alongside inspiring individuals and organisations recognised for their outstanding contributions, ICC Wales took the crown for Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates), while Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre took gold for Venue of the Year (Under 300 Delegates). Other accolades included the inaugural Executive Leader of the Year award, presented to Paul Casement of Brighter for his inspirational leadership and development of the Brighter brand and proposition in the last 12 months. 

From bold leadership and game-changing projects to rising stars and dynamic teams, the evening was a true celebration of the creativity, leadership and innovations that continue to drive the UK’s business meetings and events sector forward.  

The 10 individuals to secure a place this year were: 

  1. Chelsea Rolfe, University of Leeds Conferences and Events
  2. Christine Ferris, Legacy Hotels & Resorts
  3. Claudia Platt, Radisson Hotel Group
  4. Deborah Collins, The Belfry Hotel & Resort
  5. Kate Mullen, Whittlebury Park
  6. Lisa Morris, The Venues Collection
  7. Ros Wilson, Edgbaston Stadium
  8. Sammy Connell, NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union
  9. Sasha Lee, BMA House
  10. Tia Goadby, Leonardo Hotels

The full list of winners also include:

Rising Star Award 

Gold: Michaela Best, Melia Hotels International

Silver: Katie Gallagher, Crowne Plaza Hotel Newcastle

Bronze: Gabby Beetham, University of Leeds

Executive Leader of The Year

Gold: Paul Casement, Brighter

Silver: Andy Barnsdale, The Milner York

Bronze: Margaret Reeves, RefTech

Chef of the Year

Gold: Robert Pearce, Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate
Silver: Dean Cole, The Belfry Hotel & Resort

Bronze: Matthew Martins, Holiday Inn East Kilbridge (Kew Green Hotels) 

Venue of the Year (Over 300 delegates)

Gold: ICC Wales
Silver: Spaces at The Spine
Bronze: Silverstone

Venue of the Year (Under 300 delegates)

Gold: Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre
Silver: Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa
Bronze: Chester Zoo

Agency of the Year

Gold: C2Events

Silver: Inntel

Bronze: Access Bookings Ltd

Supplier of the Year 

Gold: Leopold Marketing

Silver: Eventurous 

Bronze: TranslateAble

Event of the Year

Gold: The One Global Unity Forum, Montenegro – Brighter
Silver: British Grand Prix – Whittlebury Park
Bronze: Unlocking Our Full Potential, Dunelm’s Annual Conference – Meet & Potato

Initiative of the Year

Gold: LGH Hotels Management Ltd
Silver: Edwards & Finn Consultancy Ltd
Bronze: The Power of Events

Destination Team of the Year

Gold: Experience Oxfordshire Venues

Silver: Meet in Wales

Sales & Marketing Team of the Year

Gold: Marriott MCR – A Collective

Silver: Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter

Bronze: Searcys at 116 Pall Mall

Event & Operations Team of the Year

Gold: Whittlebury Park
Silver: Cavendish Venues
Bronze: Central Hall Westminster

ESG Award
Gold: BMA House
Silver: De Vere Hotels
Bronze: Edgbaston Stadium

DEI Award
Gold: NASUWT Events 2025

Silver: Warwick Conferences

Bronze: KERB

MIA chief executive, Shonali Devereaux, said: “This has been my first miaList Awards ceremony as Chief Executive, and it has been an absolute privilege to celebrate how much passion, dedication and talent there is in our sector. These awards really are the Pride of the Industry.

“Each of this year’s winners embodies the spirt of excellence and resilience that keeps our industry moving forward and it is this drive and commitment that will keep our sector on track and thriving. This is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.

“I would like to extend my thanks to our judges, sponsors and partners for their invaluable support in bringing our annual awards to life. Like our industry, the miaList continues to evolve, and I am already looking forward to celebrating more incredible achievements in 2026.” 

miaList nominees were assessed by an expert panel of industry professionals including QEII Centre’s Mark Green, The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s Katie Niland, Jason Gutteridge from Venue Directory, Leopold Marketing’s Leo Lloyd, Charlo Briggs from Universal Live, Sammy Connell from NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union, Jack Marczewski from Northstar Travel Group, PPHE Hotel Group’s Amy Russell, business events and tourism expert Jenny Jensen, Inntel’s Douglas O’Neill, Meet Cambridge’s Andrew Bell, TBA Group’s Richard Bridge, Lynn Hardaker from Cairn Hotel Group and Melanie Cash from Melanie Cash Training & Consultancy.

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Events

The Meetings Industry Association launches essential guidance on creating accessible events 

by jummy84
written by jummy84

The Meeting Industry Association (MIA) has launched new guidance on Accessible Events to help professionals across the UK business meetings and events sector create truly inclusive and accessible experiences for all.

Developed in collaboration with Gabrielle Austen-Browne, Founder of Diversity Alliance – a leading diversity, equity and inclusion consultancy – the guide provides comprehensive, practical advice to support members in meeting their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and embedding accessibility best practice into everyday operations.

Launched on Purple Tuesday 2025, a global initiative to improve accessibility and the customer experience for disabled people, the guide explores how to remove barriers for delegates, speakers and employees with disabilities, offering actionable steps to ensure that everyone can participate fully in meetings and events. It highlights both the moral and business case for accessibility, demonstrating that inclusive design benefits every attendee, enhances reputation and drives greater engagement across the sector.

The Equality Act 2010 is the UK’s foundational anti-discrimination law, protecting individuals from unfair treatment across nine characteristics, including disability. It places a duty on service providers including hotels, venues and event organisers, to make reasonable adjustments for those with physical or mental impairments.

By launching this new resource, the MIA continues its commitment to supporting members with practical tools and guidance to improve standards, promote inclusivity and strengthen the UK’s reputation as a world-leading destination for meetings and events.

MIA chief executive, Shonali Devereaux, said: “Accessibility is so much more than a legal requirement. As an industry built on connection, inclusivity should sit at the heart of everything we do to ensure that everyone can fully participate in and enjoy the many wonderful experiences our sector works hard to create. This guide has been designed to help our members navigate their legal responsibilities under the Equality Act and take proactive steps to remove barriers and raise awareness, empathy and understanding across our community.”

Gabrielle Austen-Brown, Founder of Diversity Alliance, said: “Every day, event professionals create experiences that can change minds, facilitate connections and drive real social impact. Yet when we fail to consider accessibility from the outset, we impoverish the entire experience, not just for disabled attendees, but for everyone.

‘Access for All’ provides the practical framework our industry needs to bridge the gap between good intentions and meaningful action. When we embed accessibility from the start rather than retrofit it as an afterthought, we don’t just include more people, we create better events for everyone.”

The full Practical Guide to Accessible Events can be accessed here.

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Events

Cost pressures are forcing price rises and reduced workforces, the Meetings Industry Association reveals

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Almost two-thirds (64%) of organisations have increased their prices this year to combat rising costs, according to the Meetings Industry Association (MIA). 

Surveying 109 event venues, suppliers, agents and destinations, the association’s latest Insight report reveals that almost 9 in 10 (89%) organisations have seen their costs increase this year by an average of 12%. By comparison, organisations have only increased their prices by an average 7%.

In response to combating price increases, almost a third (32%) have had to delay investing further in their business, while over a quarter (26%) have been forced to reduce their workforce, putting more pressure on employees to maintain standards with fewer people. This is particularly notable in light of findings from the MIA’s People survey earlier this year, which revealed that 92% of employees experiencing stress or burnout identified high workloads as the primary cause.

As organisations battle cost increases, almost half (46%) state they are down on their revenue forecasts for 2025, with only two-thirds (66%) confident that they’ll meet their 2025 revenue target.

Providing a snapshot of current demand across the sector, the findings reveal the average lead time for bookings at 12 weeks, with almost two-thirds (65%) of respondents reporting slightly shorter lead times compared to a year ago. At the same time, 4 in 10 (40%) state that client budgets have decreased, highlighting ongoing financial pressures across the UK. 

Elsewhere, the report also reveals how sustainability has slipped down the priority list in 2025, with just 22% saying credentials are frequently requested in RFPs. Though, 62% measure and report on their environmental performance, only 37% do so regularly. Almost half (49%) cited carbon measurement and reporting as the most challenging sustainability measure to implement, highlighting a clear gap between ambition and implementation.

MIA chief executive, Shonali Devereaux, said: “With booking trends, client expectations and economic pressures evolving rapidly, understanding how the sector is performing is proving invaluable in keeping organisations informed, assured and agile.

“While many organisations remain confident in meeting their revenue targets, rising costs continue to shift the goalposts for profitability and the sustainability of our industry. In response, almost two-thirds have increased their prices and over a quarter have had to reduce their workforce. This isn’t just a financial concern but demonstrates the wider economic ripple effect on areas such as employment and investment when our industry is under strain.  

“Alongside our People survey from earlier this year, our Insights highlight that the sector is at a critical juncture. Rising costs and economic pressures are placing significant strain on businesses, and something has to give. As an industry, we now have an opportunity to decide how we respond, balancing the priorities of People, Profit and Planet, embracing innovation, being digitally curious, operating with openness and authenticity, and adopting strategies that strengthen resilience.”

“These insights come at a particularly significant time, as we await the measures set out in the upcoming Autumn Budget and continue our two-way discussions with the Department for Business and Trade to lobby sector-specific initiatives.”

The full MIA Insights report can be downloaded here: https://mia-uk.org/Insight-Surveys

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Events

Association of Independent Festivals and British Arts Festivals Association announce alliance

by jummy84
written by jummy84

John Rostron credit Jody Hartley

The Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) has forged an alliance with the British Arts Festivals Association (BAFA) that will see the two trade bodies work together across events, data analysis, representation, training, resources and more.

AIF and BAFA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding based on shared objectives to the benefit of both memberships – with AIF serving the independent music festival sector and BAFA representing multi-arts cultural events.

Through the MOU, both AIF and BAFA have committed to:

1. Host twice-yearly online member meetings that bring festival members of both organisations together to learn, share and connect.

2. Work together to deliver in-person events in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

3. Publish joint reports on the state of the festival sector.

4. Support each other in increasing representation at sector meetings and increasing information flow between industry and public sector bodies.

5. Establish shared data points for surveying and reporting to members on trends that will help improve decision making and event sustainability.

6. Produce shared resources and deliver shared training for members.

7. Offer cross-party access to BAFA Conference and AIF Congress.

8. Work together to grow and support the music and arts festival sector in the UK.

AIF CEO John Rostron said: “AIF’s membership is based on collaboration and cooperation between those working in the independent festival market, and this alliance with the wider multi-arts festival sector is an extension of that philosophy. There is already some significant crossover between our memberships. By working more intentionally together, we will all benefit from a greater diversity of insight, experience and expertise.”

BAFA Director Fiona Goh said: ”BAFA exists to provide insight, inspiration and connection for the arts festivals community through the networking, training, advocacy and support that we offer. Our members create extraordinary work across the UK, and partnership supercharges that work, transforming what’s possible. We’re looking forward to BAFA and AIF working together more strategically in the future to the benefit of the whole festival sector.”

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Event Industry News
Events

The Meetings Industry Association updates essential Martyn’s Law guidance for business events sector

by jummy84
written by jummy84

To support venues ongoing preparations to comply with Martyn’s Law, the Meeting Industry Association (MIA) has updated its practical guidance to help the business meetings and events industry navigate the evolving requirements of the forthcoming legislation.

Working in partnership with leading security experts GSA Global and ASG Rescue, the trade association has published an updated roadmap designed to ensure venues remain ahead of their anticipated obligations as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill continues to take shape.

The updated guide outlines nine initial steps towards compliance, providing venues with a structured approach to strengthening their safety and security procedures. It also includes revised information on the current legal frameworks, the implications of the proposed legislation for venues of different sizes, and practical tools such as training checklists, risk assessment templates, and communication protocols.

MIA chief executive, Shonali Devereaux, said: “The safety and security of everyone who engages with our venues must remain a top priority for our sector. As Martyn’s Law moves closer to becoming reality, we are committed to ensuring our members are well informed and equipped to act. This updated guidance provides a timely and practical framework for venues to assess their readiness, understand their likely responsibilities, and take meaningful steps towards compliance. As the legislation evolves and discussions progress, the MIA will remain at the forefront, keeping members informed and supported with continued guidance.”

Alun Jones, operations director at ASG Rescue, said: “Martyn’s Law is a vital step towards making public spaces safer by requiring venues and organisers to take deliverable, practical steps to prepare for potential and evolving threats. ASG Rescue developed this Road Map on behalf of the MIA because we fully support the principles behind the legislation. At its core, Martyn’s Law is about having clear, effective plans and procedures in place, that are not overly complex or unnecessarily costly, but ones that can genuinely save lives in an emergency. By promoting awareness, training, and reasonable security measures, it helps build a culture of preparedness that protects both staff and the public without placing unnecessary pressure on resources.”

To download the guidance, visit https://mia-uk.org/Martyns-Law.

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The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) announces Alison Willis as new chair
Events

The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) announces Alison Willis as new chair

by jummy84
written by jummy84

The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Alison Willis, chief executive officer of Easyfairs, as its new chair. The decision was made at the recent AEO Board meeting, with Andrew Williams, executive vice president at Informa, named vice chair. Rachel Swann, chief operating officer of the energy division at dmg events and outgoing chair, will take on the role of past chair until September 2026.

The AEO also extends its sincere thanks to Matthew Butler, group managing director of CloserStill Media, who stands down from the Executive Committee as outgoing past chair. His ongoing support and dedication to the AEO over the years has been invaluable and greatly appreciated.

Willis’s priority for the coming year will be to continue building on the AEO’s momentum around member engagement, with a particular focus on delivering a refreshed value proposition that truly reflects what members want and need. She will work closely with the Board and the wider membership to ensure that AEO’s offering stays relevant, impactful, and future-focused.

Willis said:
“I’m truly honoured to take on the role of AEO chair at such an exciting time for our sector. There’s so much energy and ambition among our members, and my priority is to harness that – working together to make the AEO experience even more rewarding, relevant, and inspiring. Over the coming year, I’ll be connecting directly with members to co-create a value proposition that supports their ambitions and reflects the best of our industry. Together with Andrew, Rachel, Anna, and the Board, I can’t wait to build on our successes and help shape a bright future for event organisers across the UK.”

Swann said:
“It’s been a privilege to serve as AEO chair and work alongside so many dedicated colleagues. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made – especially around member engagement and advocacy. As I pass the baton, I’m confident that Alison’s passion and focus will keep the AEO moving forward, and I look forward to supporting her and Andrew in this new chapter.”

Anna Golden, chief executive of AEO, added:
“Rachel has steered the AEO through a period of real change, and her commitment has set a high bar. As we welcome Alison and Andrew into their new roles, my focus will be on deepening our member relationships and delivering on the promise of a refreshed value proposition – one that’s shaped by what our community truly wants and needs.”

Board rotation and new appointments
As part of its regular Board rotation, the AEO thanks the following outgoing Board members for their service and contribution:

  • Carina Bauer – chief executive officer, IMEX Group
  • Ruth Carter – chief executive officer, CIBSE
  • Sophie Walker – chief operating officer, Immediate Live

Golden expressed her thanks, saying:
“A huge thank you to Carina, Kerry, Alison, and Sophie for their invaluable contributions to the AEO. Their commitment and insight have played a key role in the association’s continued growth.”

The new Board members joining AEO are:

  • Simon Albert – managing director, Messe Frankfurt UK
  • Emma Barrett – managing director, Broadway Events
  • Tim Willoughby – managing director, Mark Allen Group

The new Board members were formally appointed at the AGM in Manchester on 3rd September 2025  and will help steer the future direction of the association.

The refreshed Board is set to play a central role in guiding the AEO and ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of its members and the wider events industry.

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