Elevate, the UK free mentorship programme that since its conception has supported and inspired hundreds of people within the events industry, hosted a packed event in London 28 February to mark the launch of its 2023 programme.
One hundred and thirty guests from across the events industry gathered at The Hoxton, Holborn to celebrate the programme’s seventh year. With 285 applicants from eight countries signed up for 2023, Elevate continues to go from strength to strength.
As well as giving both mentors and mentees the chance to share their experiences, the evening also allowed Elevate to introduce both its partners for 2023 (Owl Live and We Are Collider together with Venue Partner The Hoxton and Training Partner Special Sauce) and its supporters. The latter comprise ABPCO (Association of British Professional Conference Organisers); Castlebell; event:decision; Times x 10 and TRO. All share Elevate’s mission to change lives, careers and the events industry itself for the better.
The programme was launched back in 2017 by Melissa Noakes, head of sponsorship and events at Santander UK, and Max Fellows, founder of allpoints, with the aim of filling a huge gap in the events industry for training and personal development.
Seven years later, Elevate, which has grown into a six-month programme, has helped almost 1,500 people, from graduates to senior professionals, advance their careers.
“When Mel and I launched Elevate seven years ago, we had no idea just how big it would become. We are so grateful to everyone – our mentors and mentees, our partners and supporters – for their continued faith,” said Fellowes
Noakes added that this year’s programme is focusing on social mobility – working with young people aged 16-25, in particular those from lower socio-economic backgrounds such as those leaving the care or youth justice systems. By nurturing such underrepresented talent, we can in turn help ensure the events industry as a whole becomes more diverse.”
Nicola Neal, head of people & operations at brand experience agency Owl Live: “The passion and dedication behind the Elevate machine is simply amazing, and having the opportunity to be part of its evolution really is brilliant. I can’t wait to see what we do next.”
Elevate is a pioneering, six-month programme providing mentoring and building community within the events industry. Now in its 7th year the programme has worked with over 1,450 people and counting. Together we’re changing lives, careers and our industry for the better.
