Tomorrow's Talent 2025: Hannah Elston

Hannah Elston, Community & Events Marketing Executive at Event Leaders Exchange (ELX), has carved out an exciting career in the events industry through her passion for bringing people together. With an unconventional entry into the industry, Hannah’s journey is a testament to the power of connection, adaptability, and determination. From a career pivot during the pandemic to taking the stage at IMEX America, she is fast becoming a leading voice for the next generation of event professionals. Here, she shares her experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future.

Tell us a bit about your journey in the industry so far. How did you get started?

Honestly, I fell into this industry in a completely unconventional way! At 18, I left education and jumped straight into full-time work at London Gatwick Airport, then the pandemic hit, and everything changed.

With no formal qualifications and no idea what I wanted to do, I did admin work at a medical communications agency. That led me into event marketing, and I quickly realised I loved it. A couple of years later, my partner happened to be sitting opposite someone who was looking for a new marketer at ELX. He sent me the job description, and I fell in love with the role instantly. I poured everything into my application, and two years on, I’m still grateful for where that leap of faith has taken me.

What has been a defining moment in your career to date?

Speaking at IMEX America 2024. Being invited to present was a huge confidence boost, it made me realise I have something valuable to contribute to this industry. I co-presented a session on ‘The Power of Mentoring’ with Taylor Smith, and it sparked a shared passion to help bridge the knowledge gap between senior leaders and young professionals. That moment wasn’t just about public speaking, it was the start of something much bigger.

What do you love the most about working in events?

It’s all about creating community. I love seeing people connect, learn from each other, and form relationships that last a lifetime. At ELX, I witness first-hand the impact these connections have, and knowing I play a role in making that happen is what drives me every day.

What does and what will being a Tomorrow’s Talent winner mean to you?

It means everything to be recognised alongside such brilliant minds in the industry. It’s a privilege to have my hard work acknowledged, and I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way. This recognition makes me even more determined to give back to the industry and help others find their path, just as I did.

What has been the most valuable piece of advice you've received in your career, and how has it shaped your approach to your work?

Through the Fast Forward 15 mentorship program, my mentor, Lee Dennison, gave me advice that completely shifted my mindset. He told me, “You were invited to the table. You didn’t just pull up a chair—you were asked to be there for a reason. Own it.” That has stuck with me and helped me overcome imposter syndrome.

If you could swap jobs with anyone in the event industry for a day, who would it be and why?

David Kliman, without a doubt. He’s incredibly well-connected, runs amazing events, and has an enviable amount of Air Miles. I’d definitely be booking myself the trip of a lifetime that day!

If you could design the perfect event playlist, what songs would be on it?

Some members of the ELX Community introduced me to the Spotify Yacht Rock playlist, and now that’s my go-to for events. The conversation started when I turned up the music for background noise at a workshop, and I Kissed a Girl by Katy Perry started playing… safe to say I got some looks!