In a fast-evolving events landscape shaped by shifting expectations, rising costs, and the urgent call for more meaningful experiences, it’s never been more important to hear from the industry’s rising stars. The Tomorrow’s Talent programme—now in its seventh year—champions emerging professionals making their mark early and boldly. We look at how this year’s winning talent redefines the future of events…
For 2025’s winners, the future of events isn’t just about logistics or scale. It’s about courage, creativity, community—and above all, connection. From tackling imposter syndrome and industry barriers to redefining what success looks like, this year’s alumni are rethinking not just how events are delivered, but why we deliver them in the first place.
Creating the future of events:
Confidence is the new currency
For Hannah Elston, a career-defining moment wasn’t landing a job or pulling off a complex brief—it was being invited to speak on stage at IMEX America. “That moment proved that I wasn’t just supporting conversations behind the scenes—I had something valuable to say,” she reflects. “It sparked a passion in me to help bridge the gap between junior professionals and senior leaders.”
That theme of visibility and self-belief is echoed by Joshua Marven, Event Manager at Blueprint Partners. “Being under 30 in this industry can be intimidating,” he says. “People often equate age with capability—but this award is proof that determination and drive can speak louder than years of experience.”
Bronwyn Gahagan, Senior Event Manager and PPA NextGen Award-winner, also speaks to this quiet shift in mindset. “By showing up consistently and letting my work speak for itself, I’ve built trust, opened doors, and challenged expectations—not just for myself, but for others on a similar path.” It’s a sentiment shared across this year’s cohort: success isn’t always loud—it’s often rooted in integrity, consistency, and simply showing up with purpose.
Redefining professional growth
For many of this year’s winners, growth isn’t defined by job titles—it’s measured by confidence, curiosity, and community.
Mia Breading, whose journey has been shaped by mentorship and moments of self-discovery, says: “Fear is my superpower. It can either hold you back or push you forward—I choose the latter.”
Bronwyn echoes the power of self-belief—especially when navigating a new landscape. “As an international professional moving to the UK, I had to navigate a completely new market—unfamiliar venues, suppliers, and no established network,” she shares. “I overcame this by staying curious, being proactive, and building strong relationships from the ground up.” Her story highlights a shift in how young professionals are approaching the industry—not waiting for permission to belong, but creating their own space through intention and resilience.
And perhaps most importantly, they’re learning to back themselves. “Sometimes,” Bronwyn adds, “it’s also about having the humility to ask questions.”
Rethinking leadership
The next generation of leaders is already here—and they’re bringing a refreshingly human approach.
“Never be afraid to ask for help,” says Joshua. “Your team wants to see you succeed.” That openness, he believes, is key to building stronger relationships and running better events.
Bronwyn puts it simply: “I’m inspired by people who lead with quiet integrity—those who push for meaningful change without needing the spotlight, who do what’s right even when it’s difficult, and who lift others as they rise.”
For these professionals, leadership isn’t about ego—it’s about empathy, collaboration, and long-term impact.
From checklist to connection
What comes through loud and clear is that these early career professionals aren’t just delivering events—they’re reshaping what events mean.
Events, they believe, should be about people first. “It’s all about community,” says Hannah. “I love watching people connect, learn, and form relationships that last.”
Mia agrees, adding that professional success isn’t about climbing ladders—it’s about cultivating environments where you can thrive. “The grass is greener where you water it,” she says. “It’s about investing in where you are, not constantly chasing the next big thing.”
Ensuring the future of events stays bright
In a sector being reshaped by AI, hybrid formats, and fast-changing expectations, the mindset of tomorrow’s leaders is our biggest asset. Their willingness to embrace discomfort, to lead with empathy, and to learn from one another is what will future-proof this industry—not just for the next five years, but for decades to come.
As Bronwyn puts it: “Don’t be afraid to try and fail—but do it with an open mind.”
The Tomorrow’s Talent is a programme run by The Meetings Show.
