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Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 is an international research conference hosted by De Montfort University in Leicester, United Kingdom. Taking place on 19–20 November 2026, the event brings together academics, practitioners, artists, community organisations and policymakers to explore innovative and collaborative research approaches that create meaningful social impact. The conference focuses on creative inquiry methods, participatory research practices and interdisciplinary collaboration across education, health, arts, social sciences and community development. Conference Overview Research is increasingly moving beyond traditional academic boundaries. This conference demonstrates how collaborative approaches involving researchers and communities can generate practical solutions for real-world challenges. Participants will learn how creative methodologies such as visual arts, storytelling, digital media, performance and participatory action research can improve research outcomes while engaging diverse audiences. Across two days, delegates will experience keynote presentations from internationally recognised scholars, panel discussions, practical workshops and interactive sessions designed to encourage knowledge sharing and partnership development. Why Attend? The conference provides opportunities to: Discover innovative research methodologies. Learn from internationally recognised experts. Share successful case studies. Explore interdisciplinary collaboration. Build partnerships with universities and organisations. Develop practical research skills. Exchange ideas with international delegates. Understand community-engaged research. Gain professional development opportunities. Expand academic and professional networks. Key Themes Topics covered throughout the conference include: Participatory Action Research Creative Research Methods Community Engagement Digital Innovation in Research Arts-Based Methodologies Social Justice Research Inclusive Research Design Public Engagement Knowledge Exchange Policy Impact Each session demonstrates how collaborative research contributes to sustainable social and economic development. Conference Programme The programme features a combination of academic excellence and practical learning, including: Opening keynote address Expert panel discussions Research paper presentations Interactive workshops Poster exhibitions Networking lunches Community partnership sessions Collaborative research showcases Closing reflections and future directions These sessions encourage delegates to exchange ideas while developing new partnerships for future research projects. Featured Speakers Leading researchers and practitioners from UK and international universities will discuss emerging trends in participatory inquiry. Topics include community-led innovation, digital storytelling, inclusive education, environmental research, public health engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. Delegates will gain practical insights that can be applied across higher education, government, healthcare, charities and private industry. Professional Development Participants can strengthen their expertise through practical workshops that demonstrate how to: Design participatory research projects. Engage stakeholders effectively. Collect qualitative data creatively. Improve research impact. Communicate findings to wider audiences. Build long-term research collaborations. These sessions are valuable for both experienced researchers and those beginning their academic careers. Networking Opportunities Dedicated networking sessions provide opportunities to meet: International academics Research funders Community organisations Industry representatives Government agencies Doctoral researchers Policy professionals These interactions often lead to collaborative publications, funded research projects and long-term professional partnerships. Venue The Georgian Rooms at De Montfort University provide an excellent setting for academic conferences. Located on the university's Leicester campus, the venue offers modern conference facilities, comfortable meeting spaces and easy access to city-centre transport links. Delegates can also explore Leicester's cultural attractions, museums, restaurants and historic landmarks during their visit. Benefits for Delegates Attendees will leave with: New research knowledge Practical methodologies International contacts Collaboration opportunities Greater research impact Professional inspiration Access to emerging research trends Enhanced career development The conference aims to encourage innovative thinking while promoting collaboration across disciplines and sectors. Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers and professionals interested in collaborative and socially engaged research. Through keynote presentations, interactive workshops and valuable networking opportunities, delegates will gain practical knowledge that supports impactful research and innovation. Hosted by De Montfort University, this event continues the university's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research and strengthening partnerships that address global challenges.

Unveiling the Mischief for the Festive Season The Elves Behavin' Badly Festive Trade Showcase is an exclusive B2B product exhibition held at our headquarters in Basildon, Essex. Designed specifically for retail buyers, seasonal merchandisers, and event organizers, this annual event brings the playful, cheeky world of Elfie and Elvie to life. Attendees will get a first look at our official Christmas product lineup, interactive props, and novelties designed to captivate high-street shoppers and online consumers alike during the holiday shopping rush. Exploring Novelty Innovations and Product Range During this full-day trade exhibition, visitors will explore an expansive gallery of new accessories, dress-up costumes, and novelty items added to the official Elves Behavin' Badly collection. Our product development team will host detailed walkthroughs showcasing new plush doll variations, prank kits, props, and holiday décor items. Retailers will learn how to leverage our high-margin, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) to maximize seasonal sales and build compelling impulse-purchase displays in high-footfall retail zones. Strategic Visual Merchandising and Retail POS Solutions Creating an engaging floor display is crucial for driving seasonal retail conversion. This event features interactive visual merchandising workshops where attendees can examine complete Point-of-Sale (POS) display units, branded floor spinners, and custom window display concept kits. Experienced retail strategists will demonstrate how to construct eye-catching, mischief-themed product zones that boost impulse buys and encourage cross-category purchases across apparel, stationery, and novelty accessories. Navigating Brand Licensing and Character Appearances Protecting brand integrity while expanding commercial reach is essential for sustainable retail growth. In dedicated licensing seminars, our brand management team will present guidelines on official trademark usage, anti-counterfeiting measures, and co-branding opportunities. Additionally, event managers will discover how to book official licensed Elfie and Elvie costume character appearances for shopping centre activations, festive parades, and promotional family events. Networking and Direct B2B Supply Chain Ordering The showcase provides a direct collaborative space for wholesale buyers to meet directly with our account managers, logistics partners, and inventory specialists. Participants will receive early-bird stock booking options, flexible delivery scheduling, and tailored volume pricing structures ahead of peak Christmas demand. Connect with fellow retail professionals, exchange seasonal consumer trends, and secure your holiday inventory straight from the source.

The Global Business and Finance Admissions Day is a high-level networking and information event designed for the next generation of corporate leaders. Manchester, as a northern powerhouse of finance and commerce, is home to thousands of ambitious individuals seeking to break into the global markets of London, New York, or Singapore. This event, organized by Canam Consultants Ltd, serves as a catalyst for those looking to pursue high-value degrees like the MBA, Master’s in Finance, or Data Analytics for Business. The event is structured to mirror a professional networking environment. It kicks off with a keynote address on "The Future of Global Trade and Finance," providing attendees with a macro-view of the skills that will be in demand over the next decade. Following the keynote, students can visit "Institution Tables" to speak with representatives from Triple-Accredited (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB) business schools. These interactions go beyond the brochure; attendees can ask about specific electives, industry partnerships, and the success rates of the school’s career services department. A standout feature of this event is the "Corporate Connect" panel. We have invited alumni from top international business schools who are now working in Manchester’s thriving financial district to share their journeys. They will discuss how their international degree helped them navigate the competitive hiring landscape and what soft skills they found most valuable in the boardroom. This provides a realistic perspective on the Return on Investment (ROI) of a global business degree. Furthermore, Canam’s expert counselors will host a "Test Prep Strategy" session. For business and finance degrees, scores in competitive exams like the GMAT or GRE are often critical. Our experts will break down the latest exam patterns, time-management techniques, and how to use a strong score to negotiate for better scholarships. We also offer a "Profile Diversification" workshop, advising students on how to leverage their work experience and extracurricular achievements to stand out in a pool of high-achieving applicants. By the end of the evening, attendees will have a sharpened focus, a stronger network, and a clear path toward their goals in the global business world.