UK - Disguise, in collaboration with Bluman Associates and the European chapter of frame:work has announced Be Seen. Be Heard, a half-day event dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the creative video and live events industries. The event will take place on 9 October at Bluman Associates, London.
Be Seen. Be Heard aims to be a catalyst for change, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to be offered the opportunity to be part of and thrive in the creative community.
The speaker line-up includes diverse industry voices including Disguise founder Ash Nehru, Production Futures CEO Hannah Eakins, Petok Productions founder Pembe Tokluhan, The Fifth Estate creative director Sarah Rushton-Read, FRAY Studio creative technologist Kira O'Brien, Bluman Associates owner Pod Bluman, frame:work director Sarah Cox, Disguise head of live events Emily Malone and Creative Technology’s head of film and entertainment Connie Glover.
“The creative video and live events industries have been inclusive in accepting neurodiversity and non-typical individuals, yet there is so much work to do. Whenever I attend any industry event, there is just not enough diversity as there should be. Be Seen. Be Heard is designed to build on this foundation, working towards a future workforce that reflects the full diversity of society,” says Bluman Associates owner and co-host Pod Bluman.
By bringing together professionals and emerging talents across live events, theatre, film production, and broadcast, this event will help amplify diverse voices and create opportunities for those often underrepresented in the industry, say the organisers. Attendees will participate in interactive sessions, gain insights from keynote speakers, and expand their networks with like-minded individuals.
“Our mission is to create an inclusive environment within the creative video community by celebrating success stories, sharing valuable insights, and providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to thrive,” comments Disguise head of live events Emily Malone. “We are committed to fostering a culture where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated and where every individual can succeed.”
The half-day event will kick off at 14:00 with a welcome. Attendees will then hear success stories from diverse industry professionals and have the opportunity to take part in panel discussion on Reimagining our industry for the Next Generation with Sarah Rushton-Read (The Fifth Estate) and Hannah Eakins (Production Futures).
The event will conclude with an interactive session where everyone is welcome to contribute and make a commitment to change the industry for the better.
