Heartfelt connections took centre stage at beam’s Annual Forum 2025
beam welcomed over 120 attendees to its Annual Forum at Novotel London West last week in an unforgettable event focused on human connection and relationships at the heart of the events and hospitality industry.
The day opened with an inspiring keynote address from Jack Rankin MP for Windsor, who highlighted the economic and societal importance of the events sector. As a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Events, Rankin shared a compelling parliamentary perspective, affirming that the industry has committed advocates at the heart of government, and that its influence is recognised well beyond the event room.
This year’s Forum took a meaningful departure from the typical conference format. The content was emotionally resonant, with speakers inviting attendees to reflect more deeply on personal growth, shared purpose, and the human stories behind our work. One of the most impactful sessions came from Mariana Saraceni, who delivered ‘Finding Your Happiness – Why Human Connection Matters.’
Saraceni’s talk told a moving story of grief, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs – and explored how unlearning internal narratives and reclaiming our worth can spark genuine change. Delegates were encouraged to name their inner critic and tell it to “shut up,” a powerful tool for those suffering from impostor syndrome. Many personal and heartfelt stories were shared, bringing the room back to what makes us human and why that matters.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital overwhelm, leadership strategist and TEDx speaker coach Helen Packham delivered a standout session, ‘The Bold Voice Advantage – How Story, Presence & Vulnerability Build Unshakable Trust.’ With a refreshing honesty, she showed how brands and individuals can stand out by embracing authenticity, vulnerability, and bold messaging. Her insight into how some brands choose to move left when others move right offered a compelling lens through which to re-examine communication strategies and leadership presence.
Economist John Rowland provided a timely and accessible overview of the economic climate in ‘The Outlook Ahead – An Economist’s View.’ While not all news was positive, his analysis was invaluable in helping attendees understand how current and future market shifts may shape the events landscape.
One of the most engaging moments of the day was a Fireside Chat between World Cup-winning rugby legend Will Greenwood and Nick Gold, MD of Speakers’ Corner. Greenwood shared stories of leadership under pressure, team trust, and resilience, with lessons that translated seamlessly from sport to business. His advice to ask colleagues how they’re feeling on a scale of one to ten, and then asking what could improve that score, offered a practical and powerful method for team engagement, support, feedback and personal growth.
Breakout sessions brought further depth and actionable insights. A leadership and culture stream titled ‘How to Communicate Like an Effective Zookeeper’ emphasised the importance of presence, reminding leaders to set aside their phones and focus on what’s truly important over what’s simply urgent.
Another breakout, ‘Trust, Stories, and Standout Sales,’ explored how relationship-led strategies are helping businesses grow in a crowded digital marketplace. Speakers addressed the challenges of a new generation entering the sales world with limited face-to-face experience and how to better equip them for success.
Later in the afternoon, a panel on ‘The Social Impact of Events’ tackled the role of our industry in creating a lasting legacy and inspiring change. The discussion covered community engagement, social inclusion, sustainability, and empowering the next generation, all underpinned by the importance of measuring impact, listening actively, and telling powerful stories that resonate beyond the event itself.
Throughout the day, the Forum also highlighted beam’s chosen charity partner, The Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity. Attendees raised a remarkable £2950 to support seriously ill children and their families.
The Forum concluded with a vibrant Cuban street food experience in a celebration of culture, music, and connection. Guests enjoyed live performances, hosted tables, and conversation starters that continued the day’s theme of meaningful relationships and authentic engagement.
beam Chair Louisa Watson said, “This year’s Forum was about reconnecting with what really matters – each other. It was a powerful reminder that while business is important, its people drive lasting impact. We’re proud of the conversations that happened in that room, and the stories that were shared. That’s the real value of what we do.
“I’d also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our headline sponsors: Speakers Corner, for delivering the perfect Fireside Chat speaker in Will Greenwood; Universal Live, for their excellent production and AV support; and Off Limits, for providing a very fitting ‘Human Rollercoaster team-building experience. Their partnership and creativity helped make the Forum a standout success.
“A special thank you as well to the team at Novotel London West, whose attentive hosting and support – paired with an unbelievably thoughtful menu and outstanding food quality – created the perfect setting for such a meaningful day. They went above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome – and it showed.”
The event was supported by the Joi App via CatchTheMice, available here.
See below for the event’s full photo gallery, captured by the incredible Leo Wilkinson Photography.
