Why should you be part of The Future 100 Club?
The Future 100 Club celebrates the brilliant media minds of today and recognises the next generation of leaders.
Members are selected based on their demonstrated ability to disrupt, innovate, be courageous and display their excellence.
There are no age, industry tenure or job title restrictions for prospective entrants, apart from C-suite-level executives.
The initiative brings together professionals from all corners of media and champions connection, access and opportunity through networking events.
Additionally, members have the chance to speak at Adwanted events or to contribute to The Media Leader.
But perhaps the best people to speak of the club’s value are its members. The Media Leader reached out to ask them about their experience.
Maurisa Machuca, head of media, Genesis
“I applied to join The Future 100 Club because it stands out as one of the few inclusive platforms that recognises media talent based on merit and not age, experience or job title.
“It focuses instead on a shared commitment to disruption, inclusion, courage and excellence.
“As someone based in Northern Ireland and new to the broader UK media landscape at that time, Future 100 served as a valuable resource, allowing me to connect with like-minded people across the industry.
“It opened doors to learning opportunities and access to conferences I wouldn’t have had otherwise.
“I wholeheartedly encourage anyone in media who wants an extra edge in development and exposure to apply for this year’s Future 100 Club cohort.”
Charlotte Liddell, director of commercial, The GoodNet
“For me, being part of The Future 100 has opened some amazing doors.
“Not only has it been brilliant to be recognised amongst an inspiring set of peers, but the connections I’ve made have sparked insightful ideas around the future of media and innovation.
“It’s led to me speaking at industry events, writing thought pieces for The Media Leader and helped to build relationships with so many new faces across all walks of media.
“The Future 100 isn’t just an accolade; it’s a community. It celebrates the brilliant talent shaping our industry. And if you’re looking for recognition, meaningful connections and a space to share and grow your ideas, there’s honestly no better place to be.”
Dan Ward, deputy UK country manager, Seedtag
“I feel genuinely privileged to be part of the F100 club.
“It’s given me the opportunity to meet and connect with so many intelligent and inspiring people across the industry, and I’ve really enjoyed sharing thoughts and opinions on how we can collectively drive positive change.
“I’ve also been fortunate to attend the majority of events on this year’s calendar, travelling up and down the country — each one offering fresh perspectives and great conversations.
“Beyond the networking and insight, being part of the F100 has been a nice bit of personal PR too, both internally and externally, which has helped open new doors and opportunities.
“Overall, it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience and I’m grateful to be involved.”
Mercy Abel, marketer and early careers specialist
“I came across the Future 100 in 2023 when a person I respect in the industry, Dinah Williams, encouraged me to apply for it.
“When completing the entry (yes, nominating yourself is a big flex), I realised that it gave me four new affirmations that would be important to remember for my career as a young leader: I am disruptive, I am innovative, I am courageous, I am excellent.
“So when I was awarded the number one spot (thanks to my name) on The Future 100 Club 2023, I felt fully and completely validated.
“Since then, there has been ample opportunity to attend events and also be a part of features in thought-provoking pieces.
“So, whether you need a reminder of some affirmations, time and space to reflect on your career or wanting to elevate your profile — definitely consider applying this year!”
Chris Dunne, head of marketing, Thinkbox
“Being named in the inaugural Future 100 list was a huge turning point for me, opening up a wealth of opportunities and setting me on the path to the next level of my career.
“No other initiative recognises the outstanding individuals who are shaping the future of our industry, at scale and for free.
“That it asks candidates to demonstrate their achievements against core values of disruption, inclusion, courage and excellence opens up the field for talent from right across the media ecosystem and allows you to tell your story in your own way.
“There is literally no downside to entering — it’s a superb opportunity to join a growing community of future and current leaders, and to play your part in creating the media industry of tomorrow.
“As the great Gwen Stefani once said: what you waiting for?”
Emily Roberts, head of digital, Responsible Marketing Advisory
“I’ve loved being a part of Future 100. It’s given me the chance to attend inspiring workshops, join thought-provoking events and connect with some incredibly talented and passionate people.
“If you’re thinking about applying, I’d highly recommend it!”
Entries for The Future 100 Club are open and the deadline for submissions is 1 September.
The judging process takes place during 8-12 September, with the announcement of selected individuals for this years’ cohort taking place on 22 September.
More information can be found here.