One Month In: Observations, Opportunities and What Comes Next
20th June, 2025
By Kai Duggal, Executive Director, EVCOM
Just over one month in, and already it’s been a busy start. Two fantastic events — EVCOM’s own Film Producers gathering with the BFI, and our sponsorship of two awards at Communicate’s Corporate Reporting Awards — have offered the perfect opportunity to meet many of you, reconnect with familiar faces, and have some genuinely energising conversations about where this industry is heading. The depth of talent, creativity, and resilience across our membership is immediately clear. And frankly — it’s exciting.
It’s also a reminder of how valuable these face-to-face connections are — something we didn’t have the luxury of during those seemingly long-forgotten Covid years. As we continue to rebuild those connections, my message to members is simple: make the most of it. This is your network. If you’ve got projects you want us to shout about, or you want to connect with peers, partners, or new opportunities — let us know. We’re here to promote you, your work, and this extraordinary sector.
Next up, of course — The Clarion Awards (8th July — don’t forget to book). The work being celebrated this year highlights exactly why this sector matters: purposeful, creative, effective content that delivers real-world impact.
And while we’re on the subject of celebrating great work — don’t forget that the entry window for the EVCOM London Live & Film Awards is open. If you want your work to be seen, recognised, and showcased among the best in the industry, now’s the time to get your entries in.
At the same time, we’re all navigating a landscape that continues to shift — fast. Technology is changing the way we produce, deliver, and experience content. AI, personalisation, VR, automation — the buzzwords are familiar. But rather than fearing what’s next, I hear the same underlying question again and again: how do we take control of this change?
Cutting through the noise
As content channels fragment and AI-generated material floods the market, quality will matter more than ever. Audiences can spot generic content a mile off. Storytelling, authenticity, strong narrative craft — these remain the core ingredients that make work memorable and effective. The tools may evolve; the fundamentals don’t.
Tech as an enabler, not a replacement
Yes, immersive formats, real-time translation, AI-driven personalisation — they’re all powerful. But they should elevate the experience, not overwhelm it. The strongest work will blend innovation with human creativity and emotional intelligence. Because in the end, that’s what connects.
But my main instinct is – use the tech to your advantage.
We’re not short of challenges. But as I’ve already seen in my first month — this sector is full of people who know how to adapt, innovate, and push forward. The opportunity is there — not just to keep up with change, but to help define it. And as EVCOM, part of our role is to help shape those conversations, support you through the change, and celebrate the work that sets the standard.
Next month, I’ll be sharing a few thoughts on one of the biggest long-term opportunities for us all: sustainability — another area where we have a real chance to lead.
For now — thank you to everyone who’s made me feel so welcome already. I look forward to many more conversations ahead. And yes — if you haven’t booked for the Clarions yet, consider this your nudge.