Event Matters
Welcome to the Event Matters Podcast, a new podcast from Kershaw Partners about the realities of running, growing and scaling event businesses today.
Hosted by David Watt, each episode keeps things open, honest and practical so you walk away with ideas you can use the same week.
Expect straight-talking updates on the market, candid conversations with expert leaders from across venues, agencies, caterers and suppliers and the wider industry, plus valuable insights and advice you can implement within your own business.
Event Matters
How To Build A Community, Not Just A Business with Simran Whitham
In this episode of Event Matters, David Watt is joined by Simran Whitham, founder of FORMAT Group - now one of the world’s largest games industry nightlife festivals and a thriving creative events movement.
Simran shares his remarkable journey from hosting a one-off games event as a 19-year-old student in Manchester to leading award-winning festivals, TEDx conferences, and global brand experiences. At the heart of his story is a deep belief that events are powerful community conduits - spaces where people connect, collaborate, and find belonging.
Expect an inspiring and honest conversation that explores:
- The importance of community in an increasingly disconnected world
- How Manchester’s creative culture shaped Simran’s entrepreneurial spirit
- The lessons learned from chaos, crisis, and last-minute saves
- Building a company culture based on kindness, transparency, and trust
- Using AI and technology to streamline - without losing the human touch
- Why Format isn’t just an events company, but a movement
Simran’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and purpose - proof that greatness really can grow from the smallest beginnings. Listen now to hear how he’s redefining what events can mean for people, communities, and the industry as a whole.
Host: David Watt, Partner - Kershaw Partners
Guest: Simran Whitham, Founder - Format Group