New partnership aims to address socio-economic inequality in the UK events industrY
Survey focuses on representation, progression, and workplace experiences
Results will drive measurable change in recruitment, retention and progression
Elevate NewGen, a 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 reimagines a decade of mentoring success 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:
“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