Max SteventonThe Power of Events (POE) has expanded its UK Schools Engagement Programme with the launch of a London Hub.
Already operational in six regions, including the North West, East of England and Edinburgh, the Engagement Programme has involved more than 100,000 young people across more than 400 school visits since its launch last year.
The not-for-profit events industry body is inviting industry professionals in the London area to volunteer as little as an hour to the initiative. The first wave of school engagements will begin in September across the region, with POE aiming to reach more than 50,000 young people in the first year across London.
POE said it will host a London launch reception in September where event industry professionals will be given an opportunity to learn more about the programme.
Among the initiative’s sponsors are LS Events, Neg Earth Lights and AEG Europe-owned The O2 arena (pictured). The venue’s SVP & GM Steve Sayer said the POE initiative will play a vital role in helping students understand the dynamic world of events: “Our team at The O2 has a wealth of experience, and I know many will want to volunteer their time to share their expertise and help guide students as they explore their future career paths. By sharing our knowledge and passion, we hope to inspire the next generation of professionals to thrive within the London events scene.”
Deputy mayor of London for culture and the creative industries Justine Simons OBE said that POE’s London Hub launch was an important step, with events being a cornerstone of life in the capital and contributes billions of pounds to the local economy: “The London Hub is a wonderful way to help thousands of young people learn more about the opportunities available to them in this exciting industry. It’s important that we all play our part to nurture the next generation of leaders and creators as we continue to build a better and fairer London for everyone.”