Founder
With over 30 years of experience in the events and hospitality industry, Fay Sharpe is a trailblazing entrepreneur and thought leader. She co-founded Zibrant, which grew to become one of the UK’s leading event agencies and is now part of BCD Meetings & Events.
In 2015, Fay launched Fast Forward 15, a ground-breaking women’s mentoring initiative that has been widely recognised across the industry. With mentees from corporate organisations, agencies, government, and regulatory bodies, the programme has become a benchmark for excellence in empowerment and leadership development.
Fay’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades. In 2018, she was honoured with both the Mentor of the Year award and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of West London for her outstanding services to the sector. In 2022, she was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Honours List for her work in promoting equality and supporting charitable causes.
Her industry recognitions include:
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M&IT Personality of the Year (2011 & 2018)
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Shine Awards – Mentor of the Year
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Event Industry Hot 50 – Event Legend
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UKCEM Industry Leader Award (2016)
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Executive PA – Boss of the Year
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Lloyds TSB CBI’s First Women Award in Tourism and Leisure
Beyond business, Fay is a passionate philanthropist. She served as Chair of Trustees for the Muscle Help Foundation for seven years and has raised over £150,000 for charitable causes. From cycling 500km, climbing the Three Peaks twice, to sleeping rough in support of homelessness charities, her commitment to making a difference is unwavering.
A proud mother of two and a dynamic role model, Fay brings a “can-do” spirit to everything she does. Whether it’s mentoring future leaders, leading transformative initiatives, or challenging the status quo.