Conference News is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the CN 30underThirty Class of 2026.
Now in its ninth year, the CN 30underThirty initiative continues to recognise and celebrate the most talented young professionals making their mark in the events industry.
The Class of 2026 will be announced in early February, with the awards presentation taking place on day one of International Confex, taking place at Excel London on 25 February 2026.
Nominations are open from Wednesday, 12 November 2025 and will close on Friday, 16 January 2026.
How to apply
You can nominate yourself or someone else who you believe deserves recognition. To be eligible, nominees must work within the events industry and be 30 years old or younger as of 12 November 2025.
The CN 30underThirty is open exclusively to event organisers, including those working within corporate, agency, association, media, and not-for-profit organisations.
Apply to be part of the CN 30underThirty Class of 2026 here.
Championing the next generation
Commenting on the initiative, Jack Newey, chief commercial officer at Mash Media, said:
“The CN 30underThirty has become a cornerstone for celebrating the brightest rising talent shaping the future of our industry. Each year, we’re inspired by the creativity, ambition and impact these individuals bring to their work.
This programme doesn’t just recognise their achievements, it helps them build networks, gain visibility and play an active role in driving the events industry forward.”
Meet the judges
All CN 30underThirty applications will be reviewed by an independent panel of industry experts to establish who will join the Class of 2026.
Find out more about the judges and what they’ll be looking for here.
