The event industry´s not-for-profit mentoring scheme for female professionals, Fast Forward 15, has launched a project competition bringing together charity fund-raising and creative event management by students.

The competition is called University Challenge and bridges the gap between education and industry where teams are challenged to host a charity event to raise funds for charities supported by industry foundation Meeting Needs.

Teams of students enrolled in event management courses, as part of AEME (Association for Events Management Education) were invited last month. After they deliver their event, they will submit a post-event report in April, which will be judged by the FF15 panel and the winner will be announced on 24th April. The campaign was launched to the industry at International Confex (pictured) and teams will receive training from Cvent and seed funding to help bring their ideas to life.

The winning team will receive £1,000, exclusive mentoring sessions with Fast Forward 15 creator Fay Sharpe and industry leaders, plus invitations to prestigious industry events and the Fast Forward 15 Graduation Ceremony on the 9th May. The competing teams have chosen three charities supported by Meeting Needs:

  • SEED provides support, advice, groups and workshops to those personally affected by eating disorders and their families and caregivers.
  • Amplify Action supports local partners in Malawi and Ghana.
  • Ella’s works with women who have survived trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Meeting Needs chair Chris Parnham said: “We are delighted Fay and the team at Fast Forward 15 have chosen to partner with Meeting Needs charities on this initiative – one that brings together the next generation of event organisers with people in need in a clever format that encourages excellence and creativity as well as charity.”

Fay Sharp said: “Meeting Needs plays a vital role in our industry by supporting numerous wonderful charities. We are thrilled to have them as a partner in our new initiative and look forward to its continued success. The students taking part gain valuable experience in creating an actual event alongside mentorship from industry leaders, all while raising funds for a great cause.”

  • To found out how you can work with Meeting Needs, contact Margaret Mann at mmann@meetingneeds.org.uk