Fast Forward 15 University Challenge Announces Finalists
21 May 2026
The finalists have been revealed for the second Fast Forward 15 University Challenge — an inspiring initiative designed to support and champion the next generation entering the events industry.
Created as part of the acclaimed Fast Forward 15 mentoring programme, the challenge invited students studying Event Management degrees at universities across the UK to develop and pitch an original charity event concept in support of Meetings Needs and its charity initiative, Be More Dandelion.
Ten university teams took part in this year’s competition, representing institutions including the Leeds Beckett University, University of Greenwich, Sheffield Hallam University, Oxford Brookes, Essex University, University of Derby and the University of Surrey. The challenge is proudly supported by the Association of Events Management Education (AEME) and ABPCO – The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers.
Each team was paired with two industry mentors from across the events sector, providing invaluable guidance, insight and encouragement throughout the process.
Entries were reviewed by an expert judging panel featuring Lene Corgan, Sammy Connell, Paul Harvey, Michelle Rees, Jemma Peers, Cat Kevern, Fiona Bool and Nicola Alexander.
After a highly competitive judging process, three finalist teams have now been selected:
- The Betrayers Ball – Sheffield Hallam University
Inspired by The Traitors, the team includes Leah Smith, Libby Sharpe and Scarlett Rowley.
- Rise & Bloom – Oxford Brookes University
A vibrant celebration of Asian festival culture, created by Thi Ngoc Le Bui, Janet Evangeline Albert Manoharan, Gokhila Balaji and Yashraj Singh Kachawa.
- The Last Dinner Party – Sheffield Hallam University
An immersive themed dining experience at Mosborough Hall, developed by Lydia Shaw, Laura Wade, Maggie Mitchell and Amy McGrath.
The three finalist teams will be invited to attend the Fast Forward 15 Graduation Ceremony on 3 July at BMA House in central London, where the overall winning team will be announced.
Fast Forward 15 would also like to extend its sincere thanks to all of the Mentors from across the events industry who generously volunteered their time and expertise to support this important initiative and help nurture future talent within the sector.
“This year’s University Challenge was filled with some incredible events – very creative ideas and the teams worked extremely hard and appreciated the guidance of their Mentors. The judging was very tough indeed but I’m now excited for our 3 Finalists and looking forward to announcing the winner at the Graduation on 3rd July”. Fay Sharpe OBE, Found of Fast Forward 15.
For more information contact: Zoe@fastforward15.co.uk
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