Record Participation Marks Milestone Year
Elevate, described as the world's largest peer-led mentoring and personal development programme for the events industry, has launched its 2026 programme with record-breaking participation numbers. The free programme matched 954 participants representing 367 different businesses for its 11th year of operation.
The annual kick-off event took place on 22 April at White Rabbit Studios in Shoreditch, London, welcoming over 300 guests to mark the start of Elevate's biggest cohort to date. Since its founding in 2015, the programme has supported more than 3,000 individuals across the events sector.
Global Expansion and Industry Experience
The 2026 programme demonstrates significant international reach, with applicants from 18 countries including new hubs established in Australia and the USA. Elevate's mentors collectively bring more than 5,404 years of industry experience to support the expanding participant base.
The evening also highlighted Elevate NewGen, the programme's youth-focused initiative that supports emerging underrepresented talent through mentoring, industry connections, skills development and real-world experience.
Partnership Network and Leadership Vision
Elevate introduced its 2026 programme partners during the event, led by headline partners Amplify, Seed and Wonder. Global partners include Cvent, Identity, First, Illusion, Inconf, Powwow, PSP and The Production Department, with additional support from Asembl Group, CastleBell, Curious Nation, Jimmy Garcia Catering, Event Decision, Hel's, We Are Collider, Seen Presents, 2LK, TRO, Live Union and The Training Department.
"When we launched Elevate in 2015, we could never have imagined the community it would become. We are incredibly grateful to every mentor who gives their time so generously and to our partners for their continued belief in what we do," said Max Fellows.
Melissa Noakes added: "A huge thank you to everyone who joined us at White Rabbit Studios for our 2026 kick-off and to all those who continue to make Elevate so impactful. We can't wait to see the mentoring journeys that unfold this year."
Peter Kerwood commented: "Every year, Elevate reminds us just how much talent, generosity and goodwill exists across our industry. This year's kick-off brought that to life in the most powerful way, with a room full of people ready to connect, support each other."
Based on reporting by Event Industry News. Read the original article.