The highly anticipated aha Forum, returning on Wednesday, 5th November 2025, is set to create a monumental shift in how accessibility and inclusion are approached within the hospitality industry. Held at Scale Space in White City, London, this event brings together industry pioneers, change-makers, and hospitality leaders from around the world to shape a more inclusive future for the sector.
This event, in partnership with Thomas Franks, promises to be a day of insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and actionable strategies aimed at enhancing accessibility in hospitality businesses. Delegates will be exposed to valuable experiences, tools, and inspiration on how embedding accessibility can transform company culture, drive brand differentiation, and ultimately fuel growth.
Keynote speaker Shelley Cowan, a renowned TEDx speaker and Associate Partner at BB Merchant Services, will share her personal experiences, focusing on both the barriers to accessibility and the positive outcomes of fostering an inclusive environment. As businesses look to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape, the forum will delve into how inclusion can be a powerful driver of commercial success.
Delegates will also hear from experts in various fields, exploring actionable insights on improving inclusivity in hospitality settings. These include panellists from organizations such as VisitEngland, Hilton, and BM Caterers, who will share their experiences and the tangible benefits of implementing accessible practices in their businesses.
The forum will include multiple roundtable discussions, offering delegates an opportunity to engage directly with thought leaders on specific aspects of accessibility. Topics range from inclusive employment to creating accessible hotel environments. Leaders in these sessions will share their practical takeaways on how accessibility can be seamlessly integrated into business models to yield both social and financial returns.
Among the roundtable leaders is Stephen Maley, an expert on accessibility as a financial opportunity, and Charlotte Evans, who will lead a conversation about the accessible hotel experience. These discussions will highlight real-world examples and provide delegates with the knowledge to incorporate inclusive practices into their organizations.
Along with insightful sessions, the forum offers a prime opportunity for attendees to network with peers and industry experts. The event will feature a lunch break for informal discussions, followed by a networking reception with canapés, champagne, and live music by Emmanuel Kelly. This social segment will allow professionals to connect in a relaxed atmosphere, fostering further collaboration and conversation around accessibility in hospitality.
To close the day, guests will enjoy a performance by Emmanuel Kelly, a celebrated artist who has made waves with his music career, including performing at high-profile events such as the FIFA Club World Cup Final Halftime Show. Kelly’s performance promises to be a powerful reminder of the event’s central theme: creating a future where accessibility is celebrated.
Tickets for the aha Forum are priced at £295 + VAT, which includes a full day of engaging sessions, networking opportunities, lunch, and access to the closing reception. Attendees can secure their place by completing the registration form available on the forum’s official website.
The aha Forum represents more than just an event it is a platform for industry professionals to collaborate, share knowledge, and take meaningful steps towards an accessible and inclusive future for the hospitality sector. Whether you are a senior leader, hospitality professional, or advocate for accessibility, this event offers a unique opportunity to drive real change and make a lasting impact on the industry. Be part of this transformative movement and secure your ticket today.
