Birmingham-based event management company Blackberry Events has seen an exceptional start to 2026, securing Collaboration of the Year at the inaugural Beam Awards, marking another milestone in the agency’s rapid growth and industry recognition.
Held on Friday 30 January, the ceremony was hosted by leading industry association Beam and brought together hundreds of professionals from across the meetings, events and hospitality sectors. The awards took place in the newly unveiled Masters Suite at The Belfry Golf and Spa Resort, providing a fitting backdrop for a night dedicated to celebrating excellence and innovation within the industry.
Guests were treated to a show-stopping Moulin Rouge–inspired experience, curated by creative specialists Eventologists and entertainment duo Mr and Mrs Grey, transforming the evening into an immersive spectacle that left a lasting impression on attendees.
Out of five award categories, Blackberry Events was recognised for Collaboration of the Year, alongside long-standing partners The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT). Judges praised the partnership for the continued success of the Inspiring Leadership Conference, highlighting the strength of collaboration behind one of the UK’s most established education leadership events.
Blackberry Events has worked with NAHT as event delivery partners for over 12 years, helping to grow the Inspiring Leadership Conference into the UK’s longest-running leadership event in education. Founding directors Steve and Jackie cultivated deep-rooted relationships within the education sector, laying the foundations for the conference’s continued success. This legacy has since been passed to Blackberry Events Director Georgie Butler, who is leading the event into its next chapter with the support of a growing team of event experts.
Under the agency’s new leadership, the conference has continued to evolve, with a clear focus on relevance, delegate experience, and long-term impact, ensuring it remains a modern and meaningful event for the education community.
“A master class in delivery, purpose and partnership, this collaboration stood out for it’s creativity, attention to delegate experience and lasting impact on the educational sector.”
Judges drawn from leading agencies and venues across the UK
With a bold strategy in place for 2026, Blackberry Events shows no signs of slowing down, and the industry can expect to see much more from the agency in the months ahead.
For more information or support with event delivery, visit blackberry-events.co.uk
