Vanessa Cotton Scholarship Applications are Now Open

BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E) has partnered with the Meetings Professionals International’s (MPI), UK & Ireland Chapter on the Vanessa Cotton Scholarship for the third year. This collaboration will offer UK-based students  a unique opportunity to take part in an 18-month remote internship, beginning in September 2026, providing unparalleled, career-shaping experience across BCD M&E’s global operations.

Originally established in 2011, the Vanessa Cotton Scholarship was created by MPI UK & Ireland in honour of Vanessa Cotton, a highly respected UK events industry leader and champion of young professionals. After her passing in 2010 following a battle with cancer, the scholarship was launched to continue her legacy and was reintroduced in 2024.

“As we celebrate the third year of this transformative partnership, BCD M&E’s visionary leadership, creative excellence, and commitment to developing talent have made this initiative exceptional,” said Olivia Breene, President of MPI UK & Ireland. “BCD M&E are true industry pioneers, innovative architects, trusted strategic partners, and fearless creators who consistently push boundaries. Their involvement has elevated the Vanessa Cotton Scholarship from an inspiring concept to a powerful pathway for developing the next generation of industry leaders. Together, we’ve set a new standard for industry mentorship and collaboration in our sector.”

The Vanessa Cotton Scholarship supports emerging talent by providing hands‑on training, mentorship and exposure to a broad range of industry professionals. In the role of Graduate Event Coordinator, the recipient will gain in‑depth experience across strategic meetings management, venue sourcing, accommodation and delegate services, working directly with BCD M&E teams. The scholarship is open each year to final‑year students completing an event management or meetings‑industry‑related degree or diploma in the UK or Ireland.

Levi Devine, the recipient of the 2025 Vanessa Cotton Scholarship, said, “Being selected as the Vanessa Cotton recipient has been an incredible honour! I’m genuinely grateful for the experience this opportunity has given me. From my very first day at BCD M&E, I felt welcomed and truly part of the team. I was trusted with responsibility whilst being given the space and confidence to learn, grow and understand the meetings and events industry alongside experienced professionals.”

MPI’s Future Leader initiative and BCD M&E’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion are central to this partnership, ensuring accessibility remains a key driver in developing future industry talent. The program champions the next generation of event professionals, ambitious thinkers, creative problem‑solvers and emerging leaders. It offers an exceptional opportunity for students to learn from and work alongside BCD’s talented, forward‑thinking team.