The Realise Award recognises emerging and/ or aspiring event professionals between the ages of 18 – 25 years old. We recognise that the events industry can be hard to break into for young people, especially those from a diverse background. We hope this competition can serve as a way in, a chance to get demonstrable experience and access to the expertise of current event professionals.
Engagement of the next generation of event organisers is an essential part of EVCOM’s work towards a more diverse and inclusive sector. It is important that we understand and hear the voices of the next generation, so that EVCOM can be an association that supports young people in their future careers.
Our mentees – Anna Green (Broadsword), James Simpkins (2Heads), Steve Eakins (Live Union) and Liz Zutshi (TTA) – who also acted as our judges, were really impressed by all the entries, by the passion and the perspectives expressed by the entrants. In creating this shortlist they have looked for creativity and imagination and logistical flair, an understanding of what makes a successful event, a fresh perspective on what the events industry could be and a passion for the industry.
The shortlist is as follows:
Ella Corbin
Georgia Bakers-Timson
Jenna Waggitt
Maryam Sadat Seyedsalehi
Nandi Elewa-Gidado
Nazir Ashraf
We will announce our two winners at the EVCOM Clarion Awards ceremony on 3rd July, each of whom will win six months of mentorship with two of our mentees each. The four remaining shortlistees will all receive a mentorship session with one of our mentees, where they can ask their questions about the industry and get guidance on their career. Tickets for the EVCOM Clarion Awards are available here.