Global Media and Entertainment Talent Manifesto expands skills and diversity initiatives with World Skills Café event in Amsterdam and Ignite mentoring programme for people of colour
The Global Media and Entertainment Talent Manifesto announces that the World Skills Café will return at IBC2025 with an expanded skills and diversity programme, alongside the launch of a new initiative, Ignite – a mentoring programme designed to support people of colour entering or progressing within the media and entertainment (M&E) technology sector.
Taking place on Thursday 11 September from 2pm to 5pm at the RAI Amsterdam, with networking drinks to follow, the World Skills Café is the M&E technology industry’s global flagship event for addressing the critical skills, diversity, and education challenges impacting the sector. Building on the success of its inaugural year, the 2025 edition will feature interactive workshops, keynotes, and expert-led panels designed to drive action across the sector. Attendees will include representatives from broadcasters, streaming platforms, outside broadcast (OB) providers, studios, technology vendors, recruitment specialists, and education institutions.
“There is a real need for the media and entertainment technology sector to unite in addressing talent and diversity challenges. The 2025 World Skills Café will build on key foundations delivered last year and accelerate collaboration and practical advances across recruitment and skills development,” said Carrie Wootten, Co-Founder of the Global Media and Entertainment Talent Manifesto.“Ignite reflects our commitment to empowering underrepresented talent at every career stage. We must act collectively and decisively to build a sustainable, inclusive future workforce.”
The World Skills Café will again create a ‘live’ Talent Manifesto during the event, outlining commitments made by individuals and organisations to deliver positive change in skills development and diversity. These commitments will be revisited at IBC2026 to review progress and share learnings with the wider industry.
“Talent development, diversity, and inclusion are vital themes running throughout IBC2025. The World Skills Café is an important part of a broader focus across the show on addressing the industry’s people and purpose challenges,” said Jo Mayer, Director of Marketing at IBC, “From headline stages to dedicated sessions and workshops across the event, IBC2025 will provide a platform to spotlight and advance the future of our industry’s workforce.”
Registration to attend the World Skills Café is now open here. The World Skills Café at IBC2025 is supported by sponsors including: Vizrt | Deluxe | IABM | DTG | TMT Insights | Amazon Web Services | Tysers (Insurance Partner) | OneFootball | Platform Communications
In addition to the World Skills Café, the Global Media and Entertainment Talent Manifesto has launched Ignite, a new international mentoring initiative designed specifically for people of colour working in or entering the media and entertainment technology sectors. Ignite aims to provide tailored mentoring partnerships that foster career development, build professional networks, and accelerate leadership pathways. Mentees of all levels, including younger professionals and students, are encouraged to apply – along with industry professionals across production, broadcast, engineering and creative roles interested in becoming a mentor.
Jasmin John, Founder of Black Women in Post Production (BWIPP), said: “Mentoring is a catalyst for unlocking potential. Ignite offers a vital platform for developing talent, confidence and career progression. We’re thrilled to provide talented individuals with practical support that will help open up new opportunities across the industry.”
Sam Fray, Founder of Black People in Sports Broadcasting, added: “Mentorship is a powerful driver for career progression, equipping professionals from underserved communities with both the skills and confidence to overcome industry barriers. The Ignite programme is laser-focused on creating pathways to opportunity, enhancing professional capabilities, and forging meaningful connections between emerging talent and established industry leaders who can champion their growth journey”
Partners of the inaugural Ignite programme include: Vizrt | Deluxe | The Farm
Applications for the Ignite mentoring programme are now open here and close on 30 May 2025.