Disguise event demands greater diversity in the creative industry

Disguise, in collaboration with Bluman Associates and the European chapter of frame:work announces “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 the 9th 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 lineup includes diverse industry voices including Disguise Founder Ash Nehru, Production Futures CEO Hannah Eakins, Petok Productions Founder Pembe Tokluhan, The Fifth Estate Ltd 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 that 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. 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, setting the tone for the day’s focus on diversity and inclusion. Attendees will then hear success stories from diverse industry professionals and then 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. 

Through engagement, education, and networking, this event will inspire positive change and help foster a more diverse and inclusive industry. 

Who Should Attend? 

• Individuals passionate about promoting diversity across the entertainment industry. 

• Those seeking to build or advance a career in live events, theatre, film production, or TV broadcast. 

• Creatives and technicians eager to learn from industry leaders and connect with peers.