Elevate NewGen, the talent development initiative
from the team behind Elevate Mentoring, has partnered with Diversity Alliance
to launch a landmark survey exploring diversity in the UK events sector.
The
survey focuses on race and socio-economic background, aiming to fill a critical
data gap around lived experience in the workplace. Designed for 18 to 25-year-olds from
underrepresented backgrounds, the initiative aims to support those at the very start of their careers.
The survey can be
completed by individuals or adopted by organisations looking to better
understand their workforce. Its findings will provide a foundation for more
inclusive recruitment, progression and retention strategies across the
industry.
Gabby Austen Browne, founder of Diversity
Alliance, explained why the partnership matters.
She said: “Growing up in a single-parent family on a council estate, being the first in
my family to attend university, and entering the events industry as a woman of
colour, I’ve experienced barriers that many pretend don’t exist. It hasn’t been
easy, but it’s fuelled my passion to create the change I wish I’d seen. I’ve
partnered with Elevate NewGen because I believe in their commitment to building
pathways for underrepresented talent and goal to applicable insight to tackle
the systemic challenges limiting diversity across our industry.”
Since its original launch by Max Fellows and Mel
Noakes, the Elevate Mentoring programme has supported more than 2,000 people
into the industry. NewGen takes this further by reaching those who often lack
the networks, visibility or guidance to get started.
Evie Manuel, who helps lead Elevate NewGen,
said: “Elevate NewGen is more than just a mentoring programme. It’s about real
access, visibility and opportunity for young people who are often overlooked.
Too many talented individuals are ready to contribute to our industry but don’t
know where to start. This survey is a vital step in understanding those
barriers and helping to drive the structural change we all say we want to see.”
The initiative has been backed by key industry
bodies, including the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers
(ABPCO) and creative agency We Are Collider.
Heather Lishman, association director at ABPCO,
said: “We’re proud to support this important initiative. As an association
committed to professional excellence and inclusive practice, we recognise the
need for robust data to truly understand where barriers exist. This survey is a
vital step towards creating a more representative and welcoming industry for
all.”
Anton Jerges, founder and CEO of We Are
Collider, one of the primary sponsors of the initiative, added: “Representation
cannot be improved without understanding the realities people face. This survey
gives our industry a chance to look honestly at itself and take action where it
matters. We’re backing this because meaningful change requires more than
intention, it requires insight.”
Fully anonymous, the survey will help shape
industry benchmarks and guide frameworks for a more inclusive and equitable
events sector.
To take part or learn more, visit https://www.elevateme.co/survey
