At EventWell, every host brings a unique story, lived experience, and perspective that shapes the way we create safe, calm, and inclusive spaces for others. Voices That Shape Us is a celebration of those voices, the calm in the crowd, the compassion behind the support, and the lived understanding that makes our SensoryCalm™ spaces what they are.
Each week, we’re introducing you to one of our incredible EventWell Hosts, the people whose empathy, experience, and presence help shape the wellbeing of every event we’re part of.
This week, we’re starting with the amazing Hannah Smith.
A valued member of our Host Team since 2021, Hannah has been with EventWell since the very beginning, helping us shape what calm, care, and inclusion look like at events. With her grounding presence, empathy, and understanding, she’s supported hundreds of attendees to feel safe, seen, and able to recharge. Hannah embodies the heart of what it means to be an EventWell Host, calm under pressure, compassionate in her approach, and deeply committed to creating environments where everyone can thrive.
1. Who or what has shaped the way you show up as an EventWell Host?
My approach has been shaped by my own lived experience and the people I’ve met within our SensoryCalm spaces over the years. Seeing how different environments can either support or overwhelm someone has made me deeply aware of the importance of providing a safe presence. I’ve learnt that calmness is contagious; when I regulate myself, it helps others regulate too.
2. What does it mean to you to be a “calm, caring, professional” presence for others at events?
To me, it means being grounded and creating a space where people can simply be without judgement or pressure. It’s about holding space for others with empathy and reliability.
3. Can you share a moment from hosting that reminded you why this work matters?
At the Vitality 10k, an autistic woman came to the event alone. She wasn’t an experienced runner and told me she was there to challenge herself by simply showing up. When she arrived, she was overwhelmed and froze – unsure how to unpack her bag or put on her jumper. I supported her through those small steps, and we celebrated the fact that she had made it there. I don’t know if she went on to run the race, but it didn’t matter; she’d already achieved something huge by being present. That moment reminded me how transformative support and recognition can be.
4. How has being part of EventWell shaped your own understanding of inclusion or neurodiversity?
EventWell has shown me what true inclusion looks like – not as a tick-box exercise, but through genuine action. It’s not just about making adjustments or providing a sensory room; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging where people feel safe to show up as themselves. Working with EventWell has deepened my appreciation of neurodiversity as something to celebrate, not accommodate. I’ve learnt so much from the neurodivergent people I’ve met and worked with at EventWell, and I’ve also gained a better understanding of myself.
5. If your voice could shape one change in the events industry, what would it be?
I’d like to see staff wellbeing and burnout prevention become standard considerations. A healthy team should be the foundation of sustainable events and demonstrate how we care for each other, as well as attendees.
6. What does ‘empowerment’ mean to you personally, and how do you bring that into your role?
Empowerment means helping people reconnect with their sense of autonomy. Sometimes that starts with the smallest actions – a quiet moment, a kind word, or simply reminding someone that showing up is enough. In my role, I try to empower others by creating a space where they can celebrate their own wins, no matter how small they may appear to others.
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