About this Event
Community building has changed dramatically over the last decade from organic meetups and grassroots networks to online platforms, AI-powered communities, and brand-sponsored spaces. But as communities scale, evolve, and sometimes disappear overnight, one question remains: what does it really take to build a meaningful community that lasts?
To mark International Women’s Day 2026, join us for an evening of honest conversation,
practical insights, and shared learning on the realities of modern community building with a focus on the unique pressures faced by women and community leaders.
This event brings together experienced community builders for a panel discussion followed by interactive breakout sessions where attendees can dive deeper into key themes shaping the future of community.
Panelists
Alicia Richardson is a leading voice in employer marketing and a passionate advocate for diversity,equity, and inclusion. As the founder of Create Connect and the dynamic force behind Black Create Connect, she has built a community of over 30,000 across social channels.
Vanessa Sanyauke is an award-winning sustainability and impact executive, entrepreneur and contentcreator on a mission to help people and companies level up, lead boldly and build communities connected
to their brands.
Nicole Crentsil is a Ghanaian-British cultural strategist, angel investor and award-winning CEO of Black Girl Fest Studios - the UK’s leading creative company dedicated to celebrating and advancing Black women and girls through culture, leadership and innovation.
Expect conversations around:
● How community building has evolved since 2016
● The impact of technology, social media, and AI
● The sustainability problem: can communities last forever?
● Burnout, people-pleasing, and the emotional cost of leadership
● Purpose and identity: finding your “why” before you build
● The tension between staying authentic and “selling out”
● What happens when platforms shut down and what legacy remains?
Event Format
5:30PM – Arrival & Networking
6:00PM – Introductions + Panel Discussion
6:55PM – Audience Q&A
7:15PM – Breakout Discussions (30 mins)
Attendees will rotate or choose one breakout corner led by panelists:
● Sustainable Communities (led by Abadesi)
● Finding Your “Why” (led by Alicia)
● The Personal Cost of Community Building (led by Nicole)
● “Being Lucrative and Authentic" (led by Vanessa)
7:45PM – Closing & Final Networking
Date & Time
Thursday 19 March 2026
5:30PM – 8:00PM
Location
The Hub, Shoreditch
(10 minutes from Old Street Station, 4th floor coworking space)
Tickets
️ Free admission
Who This Event Is For
This event is ideal for:
● Community builders & founders
● Creators, organisers, and facilitators
● Women in business, tech, media, and culture
● Anyone building networks, collectives, or membership spaces
● People curious about the future of connection in a digital world
Why Attend?
You’ll leave with:
● Real talk on what it actually takes to run a community
● Practical tools for building with intention and sustainability
● A clearer understanding of your purpose (“why”)
● How to be lucrative without losing authenticity
● New connections with people shaping the future of community in London
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Geovation Hub, Sutton Yard, London, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
