House of Lords, London 11 December 2025.
EVCOM proudly hosted the 2025 EVCOM Fellowship Awards at the House of Lords yesterday afternoon, honouring four outstanding leaders who have shaped, and continue to shape, the landscape of live and visual communications.
The ceremony brought together senior industry figures, clients, partners and supporters including The Edge, DRPG, NRG Studios, Moving Image, and key sponsors IMPACT XM and Cvent. Together, they celebrated the creativity, leadership and lifelong contribution of this year’s Fellows.
In one of the UK’s most iconic settings, the Fellowship Awards underscored the cultural influence and societal importance of the communications industry. Opening the ceremony, EVCOM Executive Director Kai Duggal reminded attendees:
“The stories we tell, the messages we shape, the experiences we create — they carry weight, influence culture and help organisations engage and move people. This ceremony reminds us of the importance of our craft, and of the brilliant individuals who move our industry forward year after year.”
2025 Fellows
This year’s honourees were introduced by distinguished figures from across the industry:
Sir Alan Parker, introducing Sonal Patel (Brunswick Creative) — Film Fellow
Andrew Smith, EVCOM Chair, introducing Des Good (Grosvenor Films) — Lifetime Achievement Award
Dale Parmenter, CEO of DRPG, introducing Rick Stainton (The Power of Events) — Live Events Fellow
JJ, Founder of Performing Artistes, introducing the Communications Fellow, Mariella Frostrup — Broadcaster, Presenter and Women’s Rights CampaignerTogether, the Fellows represent the breadth of talent defining excellence in live events, film, brand experience and communications. Their careers exemplify the innovation, craftsmanship and generosity at the heart of the Fellowship tradition.
Mariella Frostrup Named Communications Fellow
Renowned broadcaster, writer and campaigner Mariella Frostrup received the 2025 Communications Fellowship for her sustained impact on cultural dialogue, public engagement and advocacy.
A powerful voice for equal rights — and particularly women’s health — Mariella spoke passionately about the importance of storytelling and communication that builds understanding, connection and perspective. Reflecting on her work around the menopause, she shared her amusement at once being described as “uncomfortably honest,” a label she embraced with pride.
EVCOM Executive Director Kai Duggal noted that “for this reason alone, she deserves this honour — her work epitomises what EVCOM represents: communication with impact, designed to move people and change lives.”
In their acceptance speeches, Sonal, Rick and Des, joined by family, friends and colleagues, reflected on the relationships, mentors and defining career moments that propelled them to the achievements recognised at this year’s Awards.
A Celebration of Career Achievement and Community
Once again, the House of Lords provided a remarkable backdrop for the Awards, reinforcing the role of communications professionals in shaping public narratives and cultural understanding.
Attendees also commented on the vibrant energy in the room, a shift driven by the dynamic combination of this year’s Fellows and the expanded presence of clients, collaborators and partners. The event offered a powerful blend of networking, inspiration and shared purpose.
EVCOM Chair Andrew Smith said: “This was one of the best Fellowship Awards I have ever attended. It was an honour to recognise our fantastic Fellows — especially Des Good, who has been a guiding light in the industry for me.”
Looking Ahead: A Year of Momentum for EVCOM
With expanded programmes, growing engagement and a renewed strategic focus, 2025 has been a year of significant momentum for EVCOM. The Fellowship Awards served as a fitting finale — a moment to pause, celebrate and recognise those whose work continues to elevate the sector.
EVCOM Executive Director Kai Duggal added: “This has been the culminating highlight of a fantastic year for EVCOM. Together with Andrew and the whole team, I’m excited to see what heights we can take EVCOM to in 2026.”