Paul Cooper was born in South London and grew up in Cardiff, Wales. He was educated at the University of Warwick and the UEA, and after graduating he left for Sri Lanka to work as an English teacher.

Paul has worked as an archivist, editor and journalist, and has a PhD in the cultural and literary significance of ruins. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, The BBC, The Atlantic, National Geographic, New Scientist and Discover Magazine.

His first novel, River of Ink, was published in January 2016, and his second novel, All Our Broken Idols was released in May 2020. His upcoming work of nonfiction, Fall of Civilizations: Stories of Greatness and Decline will be released in April 2024.

He writes, produces and hosts the Fall of Civilizations podcast, which has charted in the top ten British podcasts, and gained upwards of 100 million listens since it launched in 2019.

Ali brings a unique perspective to content; having excelled as a creator, brand strategist, and agency professional over his career. His journey from history researcher to influential content strategist has proven invaluable in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Senior Social Media Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, he developed their digital presence through cutting-edge vertical video and influencer strategies that responded to rapidly changing social media trends.

Campaign Manager behind the British Army's mental health campaigns, Ali worked directly with military leadership to revolutionise their approach to mental health, pioneering their expansion onto emerging social platforms and innovative video content.

Ali has built his personal brand as creator of AliThomasGB, amassing millions of views across TikTok and Instagram with engaging content unpacking British history and culture.

Ali represents a rare breed of content professional with proven success across three critical perspectives: as a creator building authentic audience connections, as an in-house strategist driving organisational objectives, and in agency delivering for clients. His cross-disciplinary expertise offers invaluable insights on navigating content creation's challenges and opportunities in today's digital environment.

Rupert Knowles brings over 30 years of experience in technology transformation, specialising in guiding media and publishing companies through digital disruption.

As CEO of NXT Consulting, he advises clients across the UK and Europe on how to get the most from their tech investments—now with a sharp focus on AI strategy and implementation.He also serves as an AI Coach with AI Academy, helping professionals and creators build practical AI skills.

In his talk, Rupert will explore how AI is reshaping the content creator and influencer landscape. His core message: in a world of automation and synthetic content, trust and authenticity will define value. He’ll share why creators should lean into what makes them human—and how to use AI without losing their voice.

Caroline Ward is a storyteller with a lifelong love for creativity. From starting in the film industry at the age of four - appearing in a range of TV and film productions - Caroline has spent her life immersed in the art of storytelling.

In recent years she took a leading role in the critically acclaimed horror film Host and published her first book 'Whatever Trevor', a heartwarming children’s book about living with alopecia. Alongside her work as an actress and author, Caroline leads the Social Media and Content team at GeoBrand, where she brings brand stories to life through engaging, purpose-driven creative content.

With a unique blend of on-screen experience and digital expertise, Caroline knows how to connect with audiences – whether it’s through a camera lens, a page, or a screen.

M.C. for the evening

Ellie Hale is Partnerships Director at Reflect Digital - A human first performance marketing agency which combines human behaviour insights, creativity and technology to get outstanding results for their clients. She concentrates on building strategic partnerships with other agencies and is building a first class partnership program with special events, knowledge sharing sessions and livestreams for the agencies they work with.

She is also founder of AgencyLand - A supportive, hands on community for agenciesdevoted to having a positive impact on our industry. AgencyLand has just launched the first AgencyLand Grant for underrepresented founders which gives the chosen agency founder £1500, lifetime membership to the community and expert mentoring sessions throughout the first 12 months of launching their agency. Get in touch with her for more information about how to apply.