Natasha Onwuemezi

Curating content, leading panels and shaping industry dialogue at Europe’s largest publishing conference

Context

FutureBook is the biggest publishing conference in Europe, bringing together over 800 delegates across in-person and virtual formats to explore innovation, diversity, and strategy in the book industry. As co-programmer, I was responsible for shaping key sessions, hosting live discussions and presenting at the annual FutureBook Awards.

My role

I co-programmed a strand of the conference focused on new voices, inclusion, and strategic transformation within the industry. I worked closely with speakers, agents, publishers and industry leaders to deliver high-quality sessions that sparked conversation and delivered value to a cross-functional audience.

What I did

• Served as a judge for the FutureBook Awards, and presented the inaugural Discover Award and Team of the Year Award during the conference.
• Chaired a live panel on new voices in publishing with panellists including agent Natalie Jerome, Inpress director Sophie O’Neill, commissioning editor Joelle Owusu, and Bad Form editor-in-chief Amy Baxter.
• Conducted a live interview with bestselling author and cultural commentator Toni Tone.
• Programmed sessions on:
  • The evolving impact of literary prizes on publishing strategy
  • How events can be made more accessible across formats and audiences

Results

• Attracted over 800 delegates in person and online.
• Generated discussion and social media engagement across trade channels.
• Sessions were positively received for their clarity, relevance and energy.
• Contributed to FutureBook’s continued reputation as a forward-thinking, inclusive space for industry dialogue.

Takeaway

This project demonstrates:

• Skill in curating insight-driven content for high-profile, multi-stakeholder events.
• Experience chairing panels and moderating live discussions with diverse contributors.
• Ability to frame strategic questions around accessibility, representation and impact.
• Public-facing presentation skills and thought leadership credibility.