The Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) has announced that Sarah Frixon, project manager at GES, and Shanay Pahal, marketing manager at 4D Design, have both joined its Future Focus Board.

The ESSA Future Focus Board is composed of young industry professionals, and given autonomy in its decision making and spending. Its initial remit was to devise strategies, campaigns and initiatives to promote careers in the event industry, and raise awareness of the enormous variety of roles available. It is currently conducting its first piece of industry research into employment conditions and perceptions.

Andrew Harrison, ESSA director, welcomed Frixon and Pahal, saying, "Sarah and Shanay are both forward thinkers with clear ideas of how to improve the perception of the industry amongst younger people. Their contributions will form an important part of our efforts going forward."

Frixon explained why she wanted to be a part of the Future Focus Board, saying, "The Board is a great opportunity for those of us with a passion for exhibitions, and the people who work in them, to help shape the direction of the industry and ensure that it is always moving forwards. I can't wait to get stuck in."

Pahal added "The events and exhibitions industry and people within it has so much to offer young people looking to genuinely develop and thrive in an exciting and rewarding career. So to be part of the ESSA Future Board, which is actively working towards creating awareness of this, is a great honour."