Co.next Talks – Our first, and the start of a legacy
Co.next Talks marked a milestone moment for us – our first-ever event of this kind, created to champion bold ideas, emerging voices and honest conversations within Norfolk’s business community. From the moment the doors opened at The Playhouse Theatre, the energy was undeniable.
Working alongside our Co.next sponsors and Partners, Mills & Reeve, we set out to create something different: not just another business event, but a space built on authenticity, courage and connection. What followed was, in the words of our community, “an unforgettable morning of epic buzz, inspiring stories and real takeaways.”
A Line-Up That Delivered – and Then Some
Each speaker brought something unique to the stage, and together they created what one attendee described as “elite-level content from every single one.”
Bobby Harrison shared his Hustle Framework, offering an honest account of resilience, purpose and building momentum from challenge – a talk many described as “grounded, real and instantly applicable.”
Jules Rickman-Jenkins invited the audience to rethink how we work with AI – not as a replacement, but as a tool to “amplify what we’re already good at.” Attendees called it “thought-provoking and empowering.”
Railey Molinario reminded us that in an increasingly disconnected world, mastering human connection may be one of the most powerful career skills of all – a message that resonated deeply across the room.
Mary-Jo Hill spoke about collaboration in its truest sense – showing how real progress happens when we design environments where people can genuinely participate and be heard.
Tracie Nemeth delivered a talk many described as “moving, brave and unforgettable.” Anchored in values and personal growth, her story left some audience members “in tears” and others inspired to reflect more deeply on their own journeys.
Jaz Brook challenged businesses to stop seeing young people as tomorrow’s leaders and start recognising them as today’s strategic partners – a message praised as “bold, timely and necessary.”
Sam Bettis reminded us that AI begins with the brief – and that responsibility, bias and intention sit firmly with us. Attendees described his talk as “sharp, practical and refreshingly honest.”
Louie Blake closed by encouraging the audience to sit with uncertainty and imagine what might be possible without constraints – a powerful reminder that moonshots start with belief.
More Than an Event – A Community Moment
Across the feedback, one theme came up again and again: generosity. Generosity of insight. Of time. Of honesty. Attendees spoke of “a superbly kind and engaged audience,” “a feeling of belonging,” and “connections that will last far beyond the room.”
Many told us they were already “using the takeaways,” “thinking differently,” and “re-energised about what’s possible.” Others simply said: “This raised the bar.”
The Beginning of Something Bigger
Co.next Talks was never intended to be a one-off. This event marks the beginning of a long-term legacy – a platform where emerging leaders are seen, heard and supported, and where real conversations drive real change.
We’re incredibly proud of what we created together with our speakers, our audience, and our partners at Mills & Reeve, who believed in the vision from the very start.
This was our first. And it’s only the beginning.
