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Events

Elevate North launches with inaugural event at Co-op Live in Manchester 

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Joe Charlton, Lauren Mucklow, Becci Thomson, Keeley Rogers and Mike Linford

  • 80 event professionals from across the North West attend launch meet up
  • Quarterly Elevate North gatherings to be hosted at Co-op Live
  • New ambassador team to connect and support event professionals across the region

Elevate, the world’s largest free personal development community for professionals at every level of the events industry, brought its mentoring community to Manchester last night (Wednesday 26th November) for the first ever Elevate North meet up at Co-op Live.

80 guests from agencies, venues and brands across the region came together in Co-op Live’s Hideaway event space for an evening of networking, learning and conversation.

The new Elevate North initiative is being led by a team of Elevate ambassadors based in Manchester and Liverpool: Becci Thomson from Co-op Live, Mike Linford from the Asembl Group, Joe Charlton from Planit, Keeley Rogers from Nexus and Lauren Mucklow from What She Said. Together they will curate a programme of quarterly meet ups designed to connect and support event professionals across the region.

Guests heard from keynote speaker Louisa O’Connor, founder and managing director of award-winning brand experience agency Seen Presents. In a talk exploring the power of brand experience and what best in class really looks like, Louisa, who hails from Halifax, shared practical insights on creativity, measurement and building experiences that genuinely move people.

Peter Kerwood, who helps lead Elevate in London with Max Fellows and Mel Noakes said:
“We are excited to launch Elevate North, a quarterly meet up in Manchester for our mentoring community and industry peers across the region. Manchester’s central location makes it the perfect place to come together. We have long planned to take Elevate outside London and we are delighted to get started.”

Becci Thomson, Chief Commercial Officer at Co-op Live and experienced Elevate mentor, added:
“I am proud that Co-op Live is hosting all Elevate North events here in Manchester. For ten years Elevate has been transforming lives and careers in the events industry and we are so excited to be part of its next chapter in the North. It is free, it is for anyone working in events at any level and it is all about changing the industry for the better.”

To find out more about Elevate North visit the Elevate website: https://www.elevateme.co/north

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IndieWire Announces Inaugural Craft Roundtables
TV & Streaming

IndieWire Announces Inaugural Craft Roundtables

by jummy84
written by jummy84

IndieWire is proud to announce our inaugural Craft Roundtables series to roll out throughout November and December as videos celebrating the finest in cinematic artistry in 2025.

All moderated by IndieWire features writer Jim Hemphill, the Craft Roundtables comprise four panel discussions filmed at Lumen West LA November 8 focusing on cinematography, casting, production design, and editing from movies that will be part of the awards conversation in the months ahead.

“These roundtables are a reminder that craft isn’t an abstraction,” said Dana Harris-Bridson, senior VP and Editor in Chief at IndieWire. “It’s the lived experience of some of the most inventive artists working today. When you put them together, the conversation becomes both masterclass and creative reset. We’re thrilled to launch this series, and even more excited to build on it as we spotlight the people shaping the future of filmmaking.”

Michael Bauman

To start, IndieWire will roll out the cinematography roundtable, which featured interviews with DPs Adolpho Veloso (“Train Dreams”), Malik Hassan Sayeed (“After the Hunt”), Michael Bauman (“One Battle After Another”), and William Rexer (“The Testament of Ann Lee”). You can now watch the initial interviews with Veloso, Sayeed, and Bauman.

Then we’ll be celebrating casting with the rollout of our conversation with casting directors Nina Gold (“Jay Kelly”), Margery Simkin (“Avatar: Fire & Ash”), and Jessica Ronane (“After the Hunt”).

For the production design roundtable, we’re welcoming production designers Cara Brower (“Hedda”), Sam Bader (“The Testament of Ann Lee”), Alexandra Schaller (“Train Dreams”), Scott Chambliss (“Kiss of the Spider Woman”), and Dylan Cole and Ben Proctor (“Avatar: Fire & Ash”).

And the editing roundtable will feature editors Kirk Baxter (“A House of Dynamite”), Alfonso Goncalves (“Hamnet”), Michael P. Shawver (“Sinners”), Andy Jurgensen (“One Battle After Another”), Pamela Martin (“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere”), Saar Klein (“Dead Man’s Wire”), and Luke Lynch (“BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions”).

Catch up on all the Craft Roundtables as they’re published here.

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Events

JLA Launches Inaugural Festival of Speech with Political Heavyweights, Industry Insights, and Entrepreneurial Inspiration

by jummy84
written by jummy84

JLA, the UK’s leading speaker bureau, has officially launched its flagship live event, The Festival of Speech, bringing together thought leaders across politics, business, technology, and the arts for a powerful evening of conversation and reflection. Held at Kings Place in London on September 9th, the event showcased six influential speakers including Nicola Sturgeon, Sir James Cleverly, Jamie Laing, Rahaf Harfoush, and Richard Ayoade, hosted by broadcaster Louise Minchin.

A New Platform for Dialogue

Created in response to growing demand for deeper, more nuanced discussions, The Festival of Speech sets out to provide a forum for critical thinking and complex ideas, a space where insight takes precedence over soundbites.

“The Festival of Speech represents our commitment to creating a platform where the most important conversations of our time can unfold,” said Simon King, Head of Talent at JLA. “Our inaugural event demonstrated the power of bringing together diverse voices to examine complex issues with nuance and depth.”

James and nicolaJames and nicola

Politicians in Conversation: Sturgeon & Cleverly

Opening the evening, former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon and former Foreign Secretary Sir James Cleverly shared the stage for a candid conversation about the evolving state of UK politics, media scrutiny, and the demands of leadership in a divided age.

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From Reality TV to Resilience: Jamie Laing’s Entrepreneurial Journey

Media personality turned entrepreneur Jamie Laing inspired attendees with a raw, humorous, and insightful talk on building his gourmet confectionery brand, Candy Kittens.

Jla launches inaugural festival of speech with political heavyweights, industry insights, and entrepreneurial inspirationJla launches inaugural festival of speech with political heavyweights, industry insights, and entrepreneurial inspiration

Future Thinking with Harfoush & Ayoade

Digital anthropologist Rahaf Harfoush examined the cultural and psychological impact of artificial intelligence, while actor, author, and director Richard Ayoade offered a reflective take on creativity, collaboration, and originality in a media-saturated age.

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Broadcaster Louise Minchin expertly guided the evening, weaving the themes of leadership, innovation, and authenticity across all the discussions.

Why It Matters to the Events Industry

JLA’s Festival of Speech presents a compelling new live content format for event professionals seeking to create more meaning-driven, insight-led programmes. The event’s blend of political commentary, business storytelling, and future-gazing tech talk exemplifies the type of cross-sector programming modern audiences increasingly expect.

As attention spans shrink and demands for authenticity rise, the Festival of Speech offers a blueprint for how to craft events that engage on a deeper level, merging thought leadership with real-world relevance.

For event organisers, promoters, and agencies seeking inspiring keynote content or new formats to elevate conferences, exhibitions, or corporate events, the success of The Festival of Speech signals the value of curating live experiences that go beyond the expected.

Sponsored content

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Julia Fox! Jodie Turner-Smith! Grace Jones Hula Hooping! Inside the Inaugural AmfAR London Gala
Fashion

Julia Fox! Jodie Turner-Smith! Grace Jones Hula Hooping! Inside the Inaugural AmfAR London Gala

by jummy84
written by jummy84

The step and repeat was a colorful sight. Turner-Smith wore a bazooka bra-ed, bright orange jumpsuit with a swirling cobalt blue cloak fresh from the Jean Paul Gaultier spring 2026 runway. “If I’m introducing the queen, then I must dress in homage to the queen,” Turner-Smith said, referencing Grace Jones. “I am so excited!” Then Sabrina Elba appeared in a slinky black gown, so Turner-Smith broke off mid-sentence to squeal and exchange air kisses. Michael Fassbender made a quick moment for the photographers, sunglasses kept firmly on, while Julia Fox appeared like a vision, and posed in a bulbous, bridal white dress by Marc Jacobs, her makeup like a marionette doll.

From there, 300 guests filtered into the next grand, low-lit room and enjoyed a cocktail reception with champagne and dirty martinis on rotation, and dinky canapés of squid arancini, artichoke bites, and tartlets.

“The truth is we’ve had amfAR supporters based in London asking us to bring an amfAR gala here for many years, but why now?” Kyle Clifford, the incoming amfAR CEO, told Vogue. “As amfAR begins to expand the focus of the research we’re funding, looking into solutions for other diseases, viruses, and conditions, in addition to HIV, now is the perfect time to expand our outreach as well. amfAR is seeking global solutions to global problems, and we want to make sure we’re speaking with people from all over the world. Collaboration is the key to success.”

Photo: Getty Images

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Events

Diversity Alliance founder Gabby Austen-Browne wins inaugural Editor’s Choice trophy at this year’s M&IT Awards, which united 750 event professionals on Friday

by jummy84
written by jummy84

It was a glittering night at The M&IT Awards 2025 on Friday, with 750 event professionals in attendance at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London to celebrate the great and good of the industry.

Gabby Austen-Browne wins first M&IT Editor’s Choice award

The inaugural M&IT Editor’s Choice award saw Diversity Alliance founder Gabby Austen-Browne honoured for her work to transform the events industry into one that’s more diverse, inclusive and accessible. Presenting the award, M&IT editor Paul Harvey said: “Her work changes lives. Her voice matters. And her legacy – of courage, of resilience and of refusing to accept the status quo – is already being felt by a generation of future event professionals.”

After winning, Austen-Browne said: “It’s an absolute delight to win the Editor’s Choice Award, it’s a big shock, but it’s such an amazing feeling to feel like I’m being recognised for my work and it’s really an honour to be recognised by my peers as well.”

This year’s Personality – Chris Parnham

Chris Parnham, CSO of veSpace International, took home the coveted Personality of the Year award earning a standing ovation. (veSpace also scooped gold in the Best Intermediary Agency Large (40+ employees) category). Presenting the award, ICCA president and Excel London executive director James Rees praised Parnham as a “true driving force” in the meetings and events industry for more than 30 years, who has transformed businesses, inspired teams and shown resilience in the face of enormous challenges.

Rees said: “He stepped up when the industry needed him most, taking on the role of chair at Meeting Needs after the tragic loss of Chris Peacock. Under his leadership, the charity was restructured, strengthened and repositioned as a foundation, securing its mission and future growth.He is admired not just for what he has achieved, but for how he has done it – with authenticity, generosity and a genuine commitment to the people around him. A mentor, a thought leader and a unifying force, he exemplifies the very qualities this award is designed to celebrate.”

After winner, Parnham said: “Wow. Okay, I’m still a bit stunned after that, but it was really nice to hear all those wonderful things about my very long career. I basically take other people’s glory, which I’ve done for the last 25 years, whether it’s the people I work with or the wonderful people at Meeting Needs, hopefully I’ve done good things by them and hopefully inspired some people along the way to also do good things. Look out for your friends and colleagues. Karma comes around. So, be good, be nice.”

The ‘Oscars of the industry’

The ‘Oscars of the industry’ – whose headline sponsor is IHG Hotels & Resorts – kicked off with a rip-roaring set from the Greatest Show following by M&IT editor Paul Harvey, headline sponsor IHG Hotels & Resorts and Meeting Needs current chair Lene Corgan addressing assembled guests.

The first award of the night saw the Victory Service Club’s Daisy Basilio take home the Chris Peacock Rising Star of The Year Award, named in honour of Conference Care founder Chris Peacock, who died from bowel cancer in 2023. Leonardo Hotel & Conference Venue Hinckley Island retained its gold award for Best UK Conference Centre for the second year running, while other victors included a 19th consecutive Best UK Convention Bureau win for Glasgow Convention Bureau, and further wins for KDM Events, Vista Events DMC Greece and Quadrant Events. Celtic Manor Resort was named Best UK Hotel.

“The M&IT Awards are such a highlight in the meetings and events calendar because the winners don’t just showcase the very best of our industry – they’re chosen by the industry itself,” said Harvey, editor of M&IT.

“Huge congratulations to all of Friday night’s winners – every award was richly deserved. And to our fantastic finalists and anyone who left feeling a touch of award envy, remember there’s always next year, and you’ve got to be in it to win it. Entries for 2026 are expected to open in the New Year, so keep an eye on the M&IT newsletter for the announcement.”

During the ceremony, Events R Talented winner Holly Ritchie had the crowd in the palm of her hands with a stunning rendition of You Got the Love. And eventprofs danced the night away into the early hours, enjoyed networking and catching up with colleagues and peers.

Organised by Northstar Travel Group, the glittering and glamorous M&IT Awards are in their 38th year. Taking place at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, this year’s event was a who’s who of the UK events industry bringing together 750 industry professionals to recognise the phenomenal people, businesses, creativity and resilience that drives the industry forward year after year.

The Gold Award winners list in full:

  • The Chris Peacock Rising Star of the Year presented by M&IT

Daisy Basilio, Victory Services Club

  • Best UK Representation Company sponsored by Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism

destinations UNLIMITED

  • Best Destination Management Company sponsored by Corinthia Hotels

Vista Events DMC Greece 

  • Best Overseas Convention Bureau sponsored by LJS Representation

Visit Monaco Convention Bureau 

  • Best UK Convention Bureau sponsored by Avanti West Coast

Glasgow Convention Bureau 

  • Best Event Provider sponsored by ASM Global

KDM Events 

  • Best Intermediary Agency Small (up to 20 employees) sponsored by Center Parcs Conferences & Events

ZiaBia Events Consultancy 

  • Best Intermediary Agency Mid-size (21-40 employees) sponsored by The Barbican Centre

Eventurous

  • Best Intermediary Agency Large (40+ employees) sponsored by IHG Hotels & Resorts

veSpace International

  • Best Technology Provider sponsored by Grimaldi Forum Monaco

Quadrant Events 

  • Best Overseas Conference Centre sponsored by Association Meetings International

Grimaldi Forum Monaco

  • Best Overseas Hotel sponsored by The Meetings Show Asia Pacific

Sandals Saint Vincent & The Grenadines

  • Best Hotel Brand sponsored by The Meetings Show

Hilton 

  • Best UK Unusual Venue sponsored by Soaring Worldwide

MTC Events

  • Best UK Conference Centre sponsored by The Business of Events

Leonardo Hotel & Conference Venue Hinckley Island 

  • Best UK Hotel sponsored by Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol

Celtic Manor Resort

  • M&IT Editor’s Award presented by Meetings & Incentive Travel

Gabby Austen-Browne, founder, Diversity Alliance

  • Personality of the Year sponsored by Excel London

Chris Parnham, CSO, veSpace International

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Gunna Launches New Run Club, Set To Host Inaugural Charity Run
Celebrity News

Gunna Launches New Run Club, Set To Host Inaugural Charity Run

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Gunna Launches New Run Club, Set To Host Inaugural Charity Run

Gunna is stepping into fitness with his own Wunna Run Club and its first ever 5K this September in New York City.
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The WUNNA RUN 5K will take place on September 3 at Prospect Park in Brooklyn. The event is free to enter, but runners are encouraged to donate to a charity of their choice in support of Gunna’s nonprofit, Gunna’s Great Giveaway.
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This marks the official launch of his run club and adds to his growing focus on health and wellness. Gunna has already been sharing his fitness journey and investing in wellness brands, and now he’s bringing fans along for the ride.

Would you lace up and run Gunna’s first 5K?


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De Vere raises £100k for charity partners at inaugural Gala Dinner
Events

De Vere raises £100k for charity partners at inaugural Gala Dinner

by jummy84
written by jummy84

De Vere, a collection of historic mansion house estates and distinctive contemporary hotels and event destinations, has raised over £100,000 for its charity partners at its first Charity Gala Dinner, held in July at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden.

The midsummer-themed balled welcomed 400 guests to the venue’s iconic Grand Hall, where attendees enjoyed sumptuous food, expertly curated wines and memorable entertainment. Funds were raised in support of three charities, the British Heart Foundation, a movement committed to lifesaving research on heart health, Hospitality Action, an organisation dedicated to supporting hospitality workers in need, and the Willow Foundation, a charity that organises bespoke experiences for young adults dealing with life-threatening and life-limiting diseases.

The auction featured a range of exclusive experiences and items available for guests to bid on. The top prize of the night was a sculpture by world-renowned artist Ed Elliott, which was successfully auctioned for £6,000. Ed Elliott has partnered with De Vere to create an exclusive solo exhibition at De Vere Tortworth Court, which is now currently on show at De Vere Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor.

Laurie Nicol and Alan Corlett, Co-CEOs at De Vere, commented: “We are incredibly proud of the success of our inaugural Charity Gala Dinner. Raising over£100,000 for these outstanding charities is a remarkable achievement, and we are so thankful to our guests, team and partners who made the night possible. The evening was more than just a gala, it was a celebration of purpose, generosity, and community, reflecting our shared belief that business should be a force for good for our guests, our people, and our planet.”

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