Financial Times & People Like Us @ Cannes
Join Us in Cannes: A Night of Creative Leadership and Industry Change
The global creative industries are undergoing a period of transformation. While strides have been made in widening access to talent and expanding the range of stories being told, key leadership and decision-making roles remain concentrated, limiting the full creative potential of the sector. As the pace of cultural change accelerates, so does the expectation for brands and media platforms to reflect the world more accurately – and meaningfully.
Audiences are increasingly drawn to storytelling that resonates with real-life experiences, global perspectives, and authenticity. Creative leaders now face the dual challenge of staying relevant in a fragmented cultural landscape while navigating political sensitivities and economic uncertainty. Those who adapt are finding stronger audience engagement, talent retention, and long-term brand value.
The Financial Times, in partnership with People Like Us, will host a special evening at Cannes focused on creative leadership, industry change, and the future of storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the world’s most influential advertising festival, this invitation-only event will bring together brand leaders, creatives, and emerging talent for keynote interviews, dynamic showcases, and high-level networking — all designed to spark new ideas, partnerships, and pathways into the industry.
IN-PERSON PASS
Gain access to this exclusive in-person event, meet speakers and network with your peers at the Nikkei FT Anniversary Teahouse in Cannes.
APPLY TO BE A SPEAKER
Are you going to Cannes Lions? Speakers have three minutes to showcase work they’re proud of, connect with the industry, and show what People Like Us are made of.
Panel Discussion: Representation Shapes Reality – Why Inclusive Leadership Belongs at the Creative Table
How is the shifting DE&I landscape affecting organisations’ ability to uphold inclusion-centred values, and what approaches are emerging to ensure culturally relevant storytelling continues to thrive?
How are opportunities for content inclusion evolving, and what potential exists to elevate underrepresented voices and expand the range of stories being told across the creative industries?
How are organisations continuing to track impact and hold themselves accountable not just on team composition, but on the work and the business outcomes?
Relive the highlights from People Like Us x Financial Times @ London!
In March 2025 we hosted a special night with People Like Us. An incredible collection of stories from talented individuals who did themselves proud. Huge congratulations to our amazing speakers: Sal Naseem, Chloe Davies, Guerin Nimi, Chantel King, Ginnia Cheng, Che Wheatley, Mildred Talabi, Leah Mahon, Virgilia Lee Facey, Rishi Dastidar and Alyssa Jaffer.
Keep Updated with FT Live @ Cannes
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