BTF 2024

Agenda

Please You can also register your interest for sessions HERE
Wifi (blacktechfest | P: colorintech)
ALL SUMMITS
IGNITE stage
Tech & DEI Stage
BUILD STAge
Futures SUMMIT
Gaming Lounge

ALL SESSIONS

To view the content on the IGNITE STAGE. TECH & DEI STAGE and
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE you need an Ignite, Build, All Access or VIP pass.

+ much more to come...  check back here as more is announced.
9:00
-
17:00
the expo hall
EXPO HALL
Discover the heart of innovation at the BTF 2024 Exhibition Hall. With a free Expo Hall ticket, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the latest advancements and network with leading tech companies.
Learn more
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10:00
-
10:30
Unapologetically Savvy! Owning the Global Tech Space, Against the Odds
IGNITE STAGE
"Unapologetically Savvy! Owning the Global Tech Space, Against the Odds" is a powerful fireside chat that brings to the forefront the stories of two trailblazing tech veterans that shattered barriers and redefined what it means to lead in a space.
Learn more
Fern Johnson
Former CTO Vice President, PepsiCo, Inc.
Yvette Schmitter
Partner, PwC
10:00
-
10:45
Game Changers
GAMING LOUNGE
From indie devs to a multimedia hub within the gaming industry.
Learn more
No items found.
10:00
-
10:45
Boost Your Productivity with AI
GOOGLE HUB
Learn about cutting-edge AI tools (and how they work) to save time at work and on tasks. 1. A brief overview of Generative AI 2. AI-powered tools you can use for your productivity 3. A recipe for creating effective prompts
Learn more
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10:10
-
10:40
Where are the black and underrepresented VCs/investors?
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
This session addresses the lack of diversity among VCs and investors, exploring the barriers faced by underrepresented groups and discussing strategies to create a more inclusive investment landscape.
Learn more
Remus Brett
Partner, LocalGlobe
Dama Sathianathan
Partner, Bethnal Green Ventures
Karl Lokko
Managing Partner, Black Seed Ventures
Edwin Appiah
General Partner, cornerstone vc
10:10
-
10:40
Product Strategy for Inclusive Growth
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from our panel of product professionals as they explore how to create products that drive inclusive growth
Learn more
Casey Jostine
Technical Product Manager, Microsoft
Millie Zah
Head of Product
Paul Fontaine
Head of Design Strategy, Entain Group
Jordan Williams
Senior Product Designer, Kraken
Rituja Ravikiran
Senior Enterprise Project Manager, Deliveroo
10:10
-
10:40
Apprenticeships: A Pathway to Success
FUTURES STAGE
See how apprenticeships offer a unique blend of practical experience and academic learning, leading to immediate skills and long-term career advantages.
Learn more
Kwesi Bimpong
Degree-Apprentice, Goldman Sachs
Natasha Muhamba
Software Engineer Apprentice, Goldman Sachs
10:30
-
11:05
In conversation with Baroness Jones, UK Tech Minister
IGNITE STAGE
Welcome by right honourable guest
Learn more
Ashleigh Ainsley
Cofounder, Colorintech + BTF
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
10:50
-
23:20
Getting a degree vs apprenticeships
FUTURES STAGE
Compare the benefits and challenges of degrees versus apprenticeships. Learn how each path impacts your career and discover which option best suits your goals.
Learn more
Oluwatosin Toba
Software Engineer / Quant, Investment Banking Firm
Elijah Olanipekun
Co-Founder, Black Apprentice Network
Gabriella Olumide
The Black Apprentice Network
10:50
-
11:20
Why VCs Say No: How to become investor ready
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Learn how to craft a compelling case that captures the attention of investors and secures funding for your startup.
Learn more
Kirsty Macdonald
Principal, JamJar
Margaret Sheyindemi
Start Up Growth Manager, Etc.
Tom Matsuda
Fintech Reporter, Sifted
Paul Naha-Biswas
CEO & Founder, Sixley in partnership with BT
10:50
-
11:20
Tomorrow's tech stack today
TECH & DEI STAGE
This session offers a deep dive into the key technologies, architectural decisions, and cross-functional collaborations that are driving JPMCs and the financial service industry’s tech stack today.
Learn more
Som Ezemonye-Agwuegbo
Software Engineer, JP Morgan Chase
Karim El Maizi
Cyber Security, JP Morgan Chase
Ade Onigbanjo
Research Lead, JPMorgan Chase
Demi Segun-Akintayo
Senior Associate Front-end Engineer, JPMorgan Chase
Tamika Kalule
Lead Software Engineer, JPMorgan Chase
11:00
-
11:50
Life at Bloomberg: Data & Eng
FUTURES WORKSHOP
In the modern tech landscape, the lines between Data and Software Engineering can often seem blurred, yet understanding their distinct roles is crucial for innovation. This interactive talk will explore the fundamental differences between them
Learn more
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11:00
-
11:30
Diversity in Tech: The Role of Education and Industry in Driving Change Together
GAMING LOUNGE
Hear from the King's DEI lead and Ada College as they discuss the role of education and industry in driving change together
Learn more
Sarah Salimullah
Principal at Ada, National College for Digital Skills
Emmanuela Nkama
Yr 13 student at Ada, National College for Digital Skills
Katrina Para
Ada Alumna and Games Design student at Brunel University London
Vikki Leach
Senior Director, DEI & Sustainability - King
11:30
-
12:00
Making sure your marketing converts in 2025
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from marketing professionals as they discuss how to optimise your company's marketing efforts for maximum conversion. From understanding customer behaviour to leveraging emerging technologies like AI and automation.
Learn more
Dickson Abegunde
Director of Advertising, Partnerships & Sales Operations, Autotrader
Liseli Sitali
Director of Football & Music Partnerships, Expedia Group
Letitiah Obiri
Founder, Polkadot Digital
Hilary Umeh
Lead Senior Director, Business Development, Agency at The Trade Desk
11:30
-
12:00
Leading Through Disruption
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from senior technical leaders as they discuss how they're leading organisations through technological and market disruptions.
Learn more
Renee Hunt
Chief Technology Officer, Compare The Market
Clare Ashley
MD, Goldman Sachs
Prof. Simon Hepburn
Chief Executive Officer, The Security Institute
Hena Jalil
MD Business CIO, BT Group
11:30
-
12:00
How to get started as an angel investor and build a diverse portfolio
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Hear from our panellists as they discuss becoming an Angel Investor and Finding Promising Startups
Learn more
Jasmin Thomas
Venture Partner, Ada Ventures
Andy Ayim
Managing Director, Angel Investing School
Richard Cummins
Product, Angel & Advisor, Spotify
Dan Idhenga
Partner, London Venture Capital Network
11:30
-
12:00
Building a personalised application strategy
FUTURES STAGE
Building a personalised application strategy for each firm and find out best practices for CV's and cover letters.
Learn more
Samuel Ola
Co-Founder, Nestwork
Pobor Eruesegbefe
Co-Founder, Nestwork
12:00
-
20:00
FOOD HALL
FOOD MARKET
Fuel up for the day with a delicious meal from our food hall. Enjoy a variety of cuisines, grab-and-go options, and refreshing beverages from our bar to keep you energised throughout the conference.
Learn more
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12:00
-
12:45
Turret builder
FUTURES WORKSHOP
Participants will learn how to design and implement turrets to protect their tower from enemies in a 3D game. . The goal for the participants would be to try to make their towers last the longest out of the others.
Learn more
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12:00
-
12:45
Career Opportunities: Roles within the Gaming Industry
Career Opportunities: Roles within the Gaming Industry
Hear from Playground Games as they discuss the various roles within the gaming industry
Learn more
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12:00
-
12:45
Career Opportunities: Roles within the Gaming Industry
GAMING LOUNGE
Hear from the team at Playground Games as they discuss different roles in the gaming industry
Learn more
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12:10
-
12:30
How I started my career in tech
FUTURES STAGE
Hear personal stories from tech professionals about their unique journeys, challenges, and successes. Gain insights to help you kickstart your own career in the tech industry.
Learn more
Brandon Milambo
Software Engineer, Autotrader
Pius Bozumbil
Founder & CEO, Trutalent
Viola Kanu
Partnerships Manager, Qualyfi
Ama Annan
Digital Solutions Consultant, ServiceNow
Kalvin Baad
Project Professional, BT Digital
12:10
-
12:40
Does every start-up need to be an AI startup?
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
This session examines the trend of AI startups and questions whether every new venture should incorporate AI. It explores the balance between innovation and practicality in today’s tech landscape.
Learn more
Laura McGinnis
Principal, Balderton Capital
Check Warner
Co-founder, Ada Ventures
Jonathan Bean
CEO, Materials Nexus
Seven Jacobs
Startup & VC Lead
12:10
-
12:40
Empowering Everyone; Accessibility by Design
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from our accessibility partners JP Morgan Chase.
Learn more
Anthony Reynolds
DEI Lead, JPMorgan Chase
Heidi Small
Office of Disability Inclusion International Lead, JP Morgan Chase
Samuel Etienne
Bloomberg Reporter, Bloomberg News
12:10
-
12:40
Building Better Interactions
TECH & DEI STAGE
How society interacts with technology is changing, with more touch points requiring user input. as barriers between physical and digital worlds collide how are brands, technologists and UX folks thinking about building better interactions
Learn more
Suranjan Som
Leader Data and AI and Financial Services, Avanade
Akintayo Opatayo
Senior Product Manager, Dojo
Jonathan Onyeka
Director of Product, BT Group
Catherine Park
Community Manager, Colorintech
12:30
-
13:15
AI & Risk (Invite Only Roundtable)
ROUNDTABLE AREA
Hear from our partners, BDO, as they discuss how to harness the potential of AI whilst considering associated digital risks. You will leave all the things you haven’t thought about as a growing business when it comes to AI governance.
Learn more
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12:50
-
13:20
Pass the Meerkat
FUTURES STAGE
Our favourite animated show turned podcast will be gracing the stage to talk through their journey as well as the gems they’ve picked up navigating social media platforms and their ultimate goal of a television show
Learn more
Peter Adebayo
Co-Founder, Pass The Meerkat
Manny Saadu
Co-Founder, Pass The Meerkat
Gbengz
Co-Founder, Pass The Meerkat
Deji Olaniyi-Maxwell
Co-Founder, Pass The Meerkat
Timothy Akinbogun
Co-Founder, Pass The Meerkat
12:50
-
13:20
In conversation with Zeze Millz
IGNITE STAGE
Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Zeze Millz
Learn more
Zeze Millz
Cultural Commentator, Presenter
Jourds
Presenter & Host
12:50
-
13:20
In conversation with Vanessa Kingori
TECH & DEI STAGE
Join Vanessa Kingori, Google's dynamic leader, as she shares her insights on navigating the ever-changing tech landscape. From her inspiring journey from Vogue to Google, to her strategies for leading change and fostering innovation.
Learn more
Vanessa Kingori OBE
Managing Director of Technology, Media, and Telecoms, Google UKI
Ramat Tejani
Strategic Partnerships Lead, EMEA Google People Operations
12:50
-
13:20
From £1 to £1B: How to start and scale consumer startups from a serial B2C entrepreneur
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Hear from Tom Foster-Carter, Founder of @wearecherrypick, Ex-COO of @monzo and @imaginecurve as he discusses building and scaling consumer tech apps. Followed by a special announcement from HSBC Innovation Banking
Learn more
Tom Foster-Carter
CEO Co-Founder, Cherrypick
Lauren Mathurin
Senior Vice President, HSBC Innovation Banking
13:00
-
15:30
BTF CV Clinic
FUTURES WORKSHOP
Our drop-in CV Clinic is an opportunity to receive personalised feedback. Our experienced career advisors will provide tailored advice to help you craft a CV that stands out. Pre-booking on ticket site recommended
Learn more
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13:30
-
14:30
Entrepreneurs pitch showcase
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Entrepreneurs will get a chance to exhibit their tech and gain unparalleled exposure at BTF. We'll be showcasing innovative solutions from up-and-coming entrepreneurs to investors, industry leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs.
Learn more
No items found.
13:30
-
14:00
The strategic AI leader
TECH & DEI STAGE
This session explores how leaders are navigating AI advancements, focusing on strategies to integrate AI effectively while driving innovation and maintaining a competitive edge in an evolving tech landscape.
Learn more
Shekhar Patnaik
Principal Engineer, Gitlab
Ivy Grant
Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy & Operations, Twilio
Leila Seith Hassan
Chief Data Officer, Digitas
Yvette Schmitter
Partner, PwC
13:30
-
14:00
Fireside chat: An ask me anything session with leaders from Just Eat Takeaway.com
FUTURES STAGE
Hear from the D&I Director and VP of Information at Just Eat Takeaway.com on how they've built their careers, the importance of allyship, and what we can all do to drive more inclusion in tech.
Learn more
Terence Guiamo
Global Director Inclusion, Diversity, Belonging & Wellbeing, Just Eat Takeaway.com
Lisa Marena
VP, Information, Just Eat Takeaway.com
13:30
-
14:00
Checking The Receipts
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from The Receipts Podcast and the Podcast team at Spotify.
Learn more
The Receipts Podcast
Podcasters
14:00
-
14:45
Switching career paths: How to get into the Gaming Industry
GAMING LOUNGE
Switching career paths: How to get into the Gaming Industry Join us at MG as we explore how to segue into the gaming industry from a different field. We'll cover the essential steps for making the switch.
Learn more
No items found.
14:10
-
14:40
DEI & The Future Workplace
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from our CDO panel as they discuss the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.
Learn more
Carin Taylor
Chief Diversity Officer, Workday
Rukasana Bhaijee
Global Head of DEI, Financial Times
Sherida McMullan
Vice President of Diversity Inclusion & Belonging, Gitlab
14:10
-
14:40
Navigating the 2024 job market!
FUTURES STAGE
Hear from a panel of recruiters as they share tips on securing a job.
Learn more
Jade Loren Olanrewaju
Talent Acquisition Manager, Songtradr
Stephen Adeoye
Founder & CEO, Beyond Education
Arsema Fessehazion
Founder & CEO, Black Recruiters Network
Chrissy Oni
Senior Partner & Talent Acquisition, Assembly Global
14:10
-
14:40
In conversation with Irene Agbontaen
IGNITE STAGE
Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Irene Agbontaen, the visionary founder of TTYA. Irene has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry, championing inclusivity and redefining style standards.
Learn more
Irene Agbontaen
Founder, TTYA London
Jourds
Presenter & Host
14:30
-
15:00
It's just not what you say, but how you say it
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
In today’s competitive landscape, reputation is everything. Join a dynamic panel of founders as they share insights on how they've actively managed their reputations, both externally in the market and internally within their teams.
Learn more
Mark Bergen
Reporter, Bloomberg
Raffi Salama
CEO & Co-Founder, Passionfruit
Amber Hill
CEO & Founder, R Grid
Justin King
Director & Global Head of DEI, Milltown Partners
14:50
-
15:20
Applying AI
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from a cross functional panel discuss how AI is changing their job roles and industry
Learn more
Dami Anibaba
Talent Lead
Khadra Aden
Lead Technical Programme Manager, Depop
Petra Abbam
Principal Responsible AI Manager, BBC
14:50
-
15:20
100m followers - We did it
IGNITE STAGE
Join Elfried and Kit as they share their journey to amassing 100 million followers. This session delves into their strategies for success, insights on audience engagement, and the challenges they faced along the way.
Learn more
Elfried Samba
Co-Founder & CEO, Butterfly 3ffect
Kit Chilvers
Founder & CEO, Pubity
14:50
-
15:20
Pursuing a career in the Gaming Industry
FUTURES STAGE
Hear from our video game partners as they share some tips on how to secure a job in the gaming industry
Learn more
Carmen Caccavale
Director, Moderation Operations, EA Sports
Abdel Dabo
Director Business Development Company EA Sports
Uchenna Godwin-Malife
International PR Intern, EA Sports
Shay Palmer
Associate Artist, Game Development, EA Sports
15:00
-
16:00
Building Modern Solutions That Scale (Goldman Sachs Workshop)
ROUNDTABLE
Engineers often have to deal with uncertainty and the unknown. Hear from our Engineers on how we design resilient systems that scale and deal with failure by design. Gain insights into to the latest innovative solutions at Goldman Sachs
Learn more
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15:00
-
15:45
From Players to Creators: How do we feel about the development of the gaming ecosystem?
GAMING LOUNGE
Hear from the Sports Interactive team as they discuss game development
Learn more
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15:10
-
15:40
To be announced
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Hear from our partners as they discuss how they're empowering the next generation of black businesses.
Learn more
No items found.
15:10
-
15:40
Triumphs and strategies: Black founders leading the way
Build
Learn more
Toyosi Ogedengbe
Principal, Ascension Ventures
Mohamed Gaafar
Co-Founder & CEO, GRYD Energy
Barbara Anthony Okafor
Sales & Partnerships Lead, Niyo
Erika Brodnock
CEO, Kinhub
15:30
-
16:10
The Role of Testing in Software Engineering
TECH & DEI STAGE
Join me as I share real-world examples of failures, insights on testing techniques, and practical steps you can take to build more reliable applications.
Learn more
Ope Fajemirokun
Software Engineer Team Lead, Bloomberg
15:30
-
16:00
Gaming in 3D
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from Black gaming professionals working across 3 important segments of the industry. Independent Development, Content Creation, and Triple A Development.
Learn more
Theresa Johnson
Developer, Off Chain Games
Spencer Beckford
Founder, Innoloop
Theo Thomas
Creator, N8 Media LTD
Will Gwasera
Director, Dallience Studios
15:50
-
16:20
Bridging the Gap: AI, Ethics, and the Urgency of Diversity in Tech
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
In this session, we will explore why diversity in technology, especially within AI and ethical frameworks, is not just a social imperative but a business necessity.
Learn more
Gifty Okonkwo
Senior Legal Counsel, Xero
Yetunde Dada
Senior Director of Product Management, QuantumBlack, AI by McKinsey
Roselyn Cason-Marcus
Global Director of Senior Hiring and Affinity, McKinsey and Company
16:10
-
16:50
Shaping the future of work: Insights from Google Leaders
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from leaders from our headline sponsors as they discuss the future of work
Learn more
Alex Okosi
Managing Director, Google SSA
Obum Ekeke
Head of Education, Google DeepMind
Kelsey Robb
EMEA Community Advisor, Google
Ola Fadipe
Sr. Director, People Experience, Google
16:20
-
16:50
Mastering Sales Strategy: Proven Techniques for Building High-Performance Sales Teams
TECH & DEI STAGE
Explore best practices for sales enablement, pipeline management, and closing deals. Gain insights from experienced sales leaders on how to create a winning culture and achieve your sales goals.
Learn more
Nills Justine
Senior Director of Inside Sales, Indeed
Alanzo Blackstock
Senior Director, Global Channels and Partnerships, UK & Ireland, ServiceNow
Mina Al-khudairy
Life Science & Industrial UKI Sector Lead, Avanade
Julian Ansah
Strategic Partner Manager UK&I, AvePoint
16:30
-
17:00
Why is Racism back in fashion? (And what to do about it)
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
In collaboration with TNW | This session explores the resurgence of racism in contemporary society, discussing its implications and offering actionable solutions.
Learn more
Yeni Joseph
Head of Ecosystems & Public Policy, The Next Web
Deji Olayinka
Trade Union Rep, UTAW
Kim L. Smouter
Executive Director, European Network Against Racism
17:00
-
17:30
The Power of Storytelling: Rapman
IGNITE STAGE
Join us for a fireside chat with Rapman, the visionary behind the critically acclaimed web series Supacell.
Learn more
Rapman
Creator of Netflix Series - Supacell
Jourds
Presenter & Host
17:30
-
21:30
The BHM Party brought to you by UBER
Room Y
End the night at the official BTF after party featuring DJ Neptizzle, Mercedes Benson, and more this Black History Month
Learn more
DJ Neptizzle
DJ, Afrobeats Ambassador
Mercedes Benson
International DJ
Remi Burgz
Broadcaster & Host
DJ Nairaa
DJ
DJ Emz
DJ

IGNITE SESSIONS

+ much more to come...  check back here as more is announced.
10:00
-
10:30
Unapologetically Savvy! Owning the Global Tech Space, Against the Odds
IGNITE STAGE
"Unapologetically Savvy! Owning the Global Tech Space, Against the Odds" is a powerful fireside chat that brings to the forefront the stories of two trailblazing tech veterans that shattered barriers and redefined what it means to lead in a space.
10:30
-
11:05
In conversation with Baroness Jones, UK Tech Minister
IGNITE STAGE
Welcome by right honourable guest
11:30
-
12:00
Leading Through Disruption
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from senior technical leaders as they discuss how they're leading organisations through technological and market disruptions.
12:10
-
12:40
Empowering Everyone; Accessibility by Design
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from our accessibility partners JP Morgan Chase.
12:50
-
13:20
In conversation with Zeze Millz
IGNITE STAGE
Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Zeze Millz
13:30
-
14:00
Checking The Receipts
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from The Receipts Podcast and the Podcast team at Spotify.
14:10
-
14:40
In conversation with Irene Agbontaen
IGNITE STAGE
Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Irene Agbontaen, the visionary founder of TTYA. Irene has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry, championing inclusivity and redefining style standards.
14:50
-
15:20
100m followers - We did it
IGNITE STAGE
Join Elfried and Kit as they share their journey to amassing 100 million followers. This session delves into their strategies for success, insights on audience engagement, and the challenges they faced along the way.
15:30
-
16:00
Gaming in 3D
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from Black gaming professionals working across 3 important segments of the industry. Independent Development, Content Creation, and Triple A Development.
16:10
-
16:50
Shaping the future of work: Insights from Google Leaders
IGNITE STAGE
Hear from leaders from our headline sponsors as they discuss the future of work
17:00
-
17:30
The Power of Storytelling: Rapman
IGNITE STAGE
Join us for a fireside chat with Rapman, the visionary behind the critically acclaimed web series Supacell.

Tech & dei SESSIONS

The Tech & DEI Stage can be found in Room X
10:10
-
10:40
Product Strategy for Inclusive Growth
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from our panel of product professionals as they explore how to create products that drive inclusive growth
10:50
-
11:20
Tomorrow's tech stack today
TECH & DEI STAGE
This session offers a deep dive into the key technologies, architectural decisions, and cross-functional collaborations that are driving JPMCs and the financial service industry’s tech stack today.
11:30
-
12:00
Making sure your marketing converts in 2025
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from marketing professionals as they discuss how to optimise your company's marketing efforts for maximum conversion. From understanding customer behaviour to leveraging emerging technologies like AI and automation.
12:10
-
12:40
Building Better Interactions
TECH & DEI STAGE
How society interacts with technology is changing, with more touch points requiring user input. as barriers between physical and digital worlds collide how are brands, technologists and UX folks thinking about building better interactions
12:50
-
13:20
In conversation with Vanessa Kingori
TECH & DEI STAGE
Join Vanessa Kingori, Google's dynamic leader, as she shares her insights on navigating the ever-changing tech landscape. From her inspiring journey from Vogue to Google, to her strategies for leading change and fostering innovation.
13:30
-
14:00
The strategic AI leader
TECH & DEI STAGE
This session explores how leaders are navigating AI advancements, focusing on strategies to integrate AI effectively while driving innovation and maintaining a competitive edge in an evolving tech landscape.
14:10
-
14:40
DEI & The Future Workplace
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from our CDO panel as they discuss the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.
14:50
-
15:20
Applying AI
TECH & DEI STAGE
Hear from a cross functional panel discuss how AI is changing their job roles and industry
15:30
-
16:10
The Role of Testing in Software Engineering
TECH & DEI STAGE
Join me as I share real-world examples of failures, insights on testing techniques, and practical steps you can take to build more reliable applications.
16:20
-
16:50
Mastering Sales Strategy: Proven Techniques for Building High-Performance Sales Teams
TECH & DEI STAGE
Explore best practices for sales enablement, pipeline management, and closing deals. Gain insights from experienced sales leaders on how to create a winning culture and achieve your sales goals.

BUILD SESSIONS

The Build Stage can be found in Room X
10:10
-
10:40
Where are the black and underrepresented VCs/investors?
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
This session addresses the lack of diversity among VCs and investors, exploring the barriers faced by underrepresented groups and discussing strategies to create a more inclusive investment landscape.
10:50
-
11:20
Why VCs Say No: How to become investor ready
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Learn how to craft a compelling case that captures the attention of investors and secures funding for your startup.
11:30
-
12:00
How to get started as an angel investor and build a diverse portfolio
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Hear from our panellists as they discuss becoming an Angel Investor and Finding Promising Startups
12:10
-
12:40
Does every start-up need to be an AI startup?
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
This session examines the trend of AI startups and questions whether every new venture should incorporate AI. It explores the balance between innovation and practicality in today’s tech landscape.
12:50
-
13:20
From £1 to £1B: How to start and scale consumer startups from a serial B2C entrepreneur
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Hear from Tom Foster-Carter, Founder of @wearecherrypick, Ex-COO of @monzo and @imaginecurve as he discusses building and scaling consumer tech apps. Followed by a special announcement from HSBC Innovation Banking
13:30
-
14:30
Entrepreneurs pitch showcase
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Entrepreneurs will get a chance to exhibit their tech and gain unparalleled exposure at BTF. We'll be showcasing innovative solutions from up-and-coming entrepreneurs to investors, industry leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs.
14:50
-
15:20
100m followers - We did it
IGNITE STAGE
Join Elfried and Kit as they share their journey to amassing 100 million followers. This session delves into their strategies for success, insights on audience engagement, and the challenges they faced along the way.
15:10
-
15:40
To be announced
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
Hear from our partners as they discuss how they're empowering the next generation of black businesses.
15:10
-
15:40
Triumphs and strategies: Black founders leading the way
Build
15:50
-
16:20
Bridging the Gap: AI, Ethics, and the Urgency of Diversity in Tech
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
In this session, we will explore why diversity in technology, especially within AI and ethical frameworks, is not just a social imperative but a business necessity.
16:30
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17:00
Why is Racism back in fashion? (And what to do about it)
BUILD & CULTURE STAGE
In collaboration with TNW | This session explores the resurgence of racism in contemporary society, discussing its implications and offering actionable solutions.

Futures SESSIONS

+ much more to come...  check back here as more is announced.
10:10
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10:40
Apprenticeships: A Pathway to Success
FUTURES STAGE
See how apprenticeships offer a unique blend of practical experience and academic learning, leading to immediate skills and long-term career advantages.
10:50
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23:20
Getting a degree vs apprenticeships
FUTURES STAGE
Compare the benefits and challenges of degrees versus apprenticeships. Learn how each path impacts your career and discover which option best suits your goals.
11:00
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11:50
Life at Bloomberg: Data & Eng
FUTURES WORKSHOP
In the modern tech landscape, the lines between Data and Software Engineering can often seem blurred, yet understanding their distinct roles is crucial for innovation. This interactive talk will explore the fundamental differences between them
11:30
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12:00
Building a personalised application strategy
FUTURES STAGE
Building a personalised application strategy for each firm and find out best practices for CV's and cover letters.
12:00
-
12:45
Turret builder
FUTURES WORKSHOP
Participants will learn how to design and implement turrets to protect their tower from enemies in a 3D game. . The goal for the participants would be to try to make their towers last the longest out of the others.
12:10
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12:30
How I started my career in tech
FUTURES STAGE
Hear personal stories from tech professionals about their unique journeys, challenges, and successes. Gain insights to help you kickstart your own career in the tech industry.
12:50
-
13:20
Pass the Meerkat
FUTURES STAGE
Our favourite animated show turned podcast will be gracing the stage to talk through their journey as well as the gems they’ve picked up navigating social media platforms and their ultimate goal of a television show
13:00
-
15:30
BTF CV Clinic
FUTURES WORKSHOP
Our drop-in CV Clinic is an opportunity to receive personalised feedback. Our experienced career advisors will provide tailored advice to help you craft a CV that stands out. Pre-booking on ticket site recommended
13:30
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14:00
Fireside chat: An ask me anything session with leaders from Just Eat Takeaway.com
FUTURES STAGE
Hear from the D&I Director and VP of Information at Just Eat Takeaway.com on how they've built their careers, the importance of allyship, and what we can all do to drive more inclusion in tech.
14:10
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14:40
Navigating the 2024 job market!
FUTURES STAGE
Hear from a panel of recruiters as they share tips on securing a job.
14:50
-
15:20
Pursuing a career in the Gaming Industry
FUTURES STAGE
Hear from our video game partners as they share some tips on how to secure a job in the gaming industry

gaming lounge SESSIONS

+ much more to come...  check back here as more is announced.
10:00
-
10:45
Game Changers
GAMING LOUNGE
From indie devs to a multimedia hub within the gaming industry.
11:00
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11:30
Diversity in Tech: The Role of Education and Industry in Driving Change Together
GAMING LOUNGE
Hear from the King's DEI lead and Ada College as they discuss the role of education and industry in driving change together
12:00
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12:45
Career Opportunities: Roles within the Gaming Industry
GAMING LOUNGE
Hear from the team at Playground Games as they discuss different roles in the gaming industry
14:00
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14:45
Switching career paths: How to get into the Gaming Industry
GAMING LOUNGE
Switching career paths: How to get into the Gaming Industry Join us at MG as we explore how to segue into the gaming industry from a different field. We'll cover the essential steps for making the switch.
15:00
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15:45
From Players to Creators: How do we feel about the development of the gaming ecosystem?
GAMING LOUNGE
Hear from the Sports Interactive team as they discuss game development

BACK FOR 2024, BIGGER THAN EVER

AN EXPO, CONFERENCE AND FESTIVAL ALL IN ONE. BTF® is Europe's largest technology and culture festival celebrating innovation and inclusion in the UK tech industry and beyond. Join us to explore how technology transcends software and hardware, and innovates to impact culture.

BUILD

The summit for entrepreneurs
Click to view agenda

futures

The summit for early careers
Click to view agenda

IGNITE

The summit for professionals
Click to view agenda