Published by
Neil ThompsonThe deadline for applications to the 2025 Tomorrow’s Talent programme has been extended to Friday, 31 January 2025. This initiative, hosted by The Meetings Show, is designed to recognise and support emerging talent in the meetings and events industry.
Tomorrow’s Talent is open to UK-based event planners and buyers who are either aged 30 or under or have up to three years’ experience in the sector. The programme offers entrants the chance to be identified as one of the brightest new stars of the industry, gaining invaluable professional opportunities and exposure.
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of industry experts, who will select 10 standout individuals to become Tomorrow’s Talent winners. These winners will receive a range of benefits throughout the year, helping to enhance their careers and raise their profiles within the industry. Since its launch in 2019, the initiative has made a significant impact on the careers of its winners, elevating their profiles and opening doors to new roles and promotional opportunities.
Eleanor Harding, who won in 2021 said, “Winning Tomorrow’s Talent was a huge confidence boost for me, and it’s something that’s always mentioned in job interviews. It has opened many doors in my career, and I’m excited to see the next wave of talented professionals being recognised.”
To help with applications, judges have offered their top tips.
“When reviewing applications, I focus on finding candidates who are truly passionate about their work and the industry. It’s essential that they demonstrate not just proficiency in their roles but a genuine dedication to the people and projects they engage with.” Gracia Kabongo, 2019 winner.
“The trick is not to oversell yourself – we judges know if you’re trying to pull a fast one. Honesty is the best policy, let the facts speak for themselves. We do love a bit of enthusiasm though, so don’t forget to make your entries positive and full of energy!” Paul Harvey, editor M&IT
The 2025 Tomorrow’s Talent winners will enjoy a variety of exclusive prizes and rewards including an invite to the M&IT Awards, receive personal profiling opportunities through M&IT and The Meetings Show, and gain VIP access to The Meetings Show 2025. Additionally, the winners will have the opportunity to participate in a talent-focused educational session as part of the show’s education programme; join The Meetings Show Advisory Board and receive a free place on The Sustainable Events Course. One winner will also be selected to receive mentorship from a Women in Exhibitions (WiE) professional, in collaboration with The Meetings Show.
“The Women in Exhibitions Mentoring Programme helped me gain clarity, boost my confidence, and feel prepared for the next chapter in my career. The Sustainable Events Course was another transformative experience and offered insights into how I can contribute towards global net zero goals. Since my win I am now involved in organising international events with a large number of delegates.”
Iulia Zorzoana, 2024 winner of WiE mentorship
As an additional prize for 2025, all 10 winners will have the opportunity to participate in ‘Becoming an Emcee’ training, offered by atex, which curates The Meetings Show’s acclaimed Education Programme. Participants on the training will work with atex CEO Samme Allen to learn how to handle intros, outros, and tough situations, enhance their body language, and develop key speaking techniques for public events. The training aims to elevate both personal confidence and career growth, giving winners the tools they need to excel as emcees and communicators at industry events.
Jack Marczewski, portfolio event director for The Meetings Show, TEAMS Europe, and Business Travel Show Europe, said: “We’ve seen a fantastic number of applications for Tomorrow’s Talent 2025, and we’re excited to extend the deadline to the end of January. This programme is a great opportunity to celebrate the best up-and-coming talent in our industry. Winning Tomorrow’s Talent can have a profound effect on a career, helping to elevate your profile, connect you with key industry figures, and open doors to new opportunities. I encourage anyone who meets the criteria to apply today.”
Applications for Tomorrow’s Talent 2025 close on 31 January 2025. Event planners can either nominate themselves or be nominated by a colleague, with submissions being made in writing or via video. All nominations must meet the agreed criteria.
To apply or nominate, visit: https://www.themeetingsshow.com/tomorrows-talent
