The Crystal Lecture 2026

Join us for the 31st Annual Crystal Lecture held in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton.

This year we are delighted that Nate Ethan Watson will deliver the lecture entitled “Building Inclusive Communities”.

In conversation with Adam Vasco, Director of Student Success at the university, and until recently Director of Diversity and Inclusion in Professional Practice in the Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing, Nat will explore the intersection of leadership, creativity, and personal growth, reflecting on how his time at the University of Wolverhampton laid the foundations for both his professional and artistic journey. Drawing on his lived experience, he will share how the lessons he learned in communication, collaboration, and self-development shaped his path toward founding TNB Connect—a platform built around connection, empowerment, and positive leadership.

Nate will discuss the motivations behind creating an organisation that champions inclusion and creativity, how he has navigated the challenges of building something from the ground up, and the insights gained along the way. He will also touch on his career in music, exploring how creativity has influenced his leadership style—teaching discipline, resilience, and the importance of authenticity.

This lecture will highlight a powerful message: that meaningful leadership is rooted not in titles or authority, but in empathy, self-awareness, and the courage to grow. Nate hopes to encourage students, emerging leaders, and experienced professionals alike to recognise the value of their own journeys, embrace continuous learning, and lead in ways that create space for others to thrive.

CMI Rosebowl Award The event also includes the presentation of the prestigious CMI Rosebowl Award, presented to the University’s MBA student whose postgraduate dissertation is judged to be the best of the year.

Click HERE to find out more about our expert speaker.

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