Get ready to challenge your perceptions of beauty at this year’s ZAG Conference. Taking place on June 5th, 2025, this dynamic, free to attend event dares to ask: What does beauty really mean, and does it hold value for society? Is it a force for good, fostering connection and inspiration, or does it deepen division and perpetuate exclusion? 

This year’s theme, ‘Why beauty matters,’ brings together four powerful voices, each with a unique and personal relationship with beauty. Through stories that challenge, provoke, and inspire, these speakers will help you decide whether beauty truly enhances our lives or simply reinforces narrow ideals. 

The conference will feature an inspiring lineup of speakers, each bringing a unique perspective on the theme of beauty. With a career that spans over four decades, Daryl Fielding is a transformative leader in the world of marketing and advertising. The former European Marketing Director at Dove, responsible for its iconic ‘Campaign for Real Beauty’, will discuss how rethinking beauty standards can drive cultural change and brand bravery. 

Joining her is Michael Timmons, charity leader at Playlist for Life, who will share how the beauty of music can unlock rich, emotional memories for dementia sufferers. Dr. Elaine Cook, Director of Education, will explore how beautiful, inspirational spaces can transform our ability to learn, succeed, and be happy. Finally, Ben Wilson, a street artist who uses discarded chewing gum as his canvas, will share how he adds moments of unexpected beauty to the ugliness we create, challenging perceptions of urban art. 

Michael Hart, Creative Director for The Union, said: “We created ZAG because, honestly, most conferences just didn’t feel that inspiring – too long, too safe, and lacking in stories that truly stick. So, we flipped the format. ZAG is short, sharp, and packed with real stories from people who’ve challenged the status quo to solve societal issues. You’ll hear how they did it, why they did it, and what they learned, so you leave fired up to do the same.  

“This year, our speakers will offer fresh perspectives on how beauty influences our lives – sometimes uplifting, sometimes dividing – and invite the audience to see beauty from a different angle. We hope to inspire deeper reflection on what beauty means in today’s world.” 

Brought to you by The Union, ZAG is a free event with limited tickets available. If you’re curious, open-minded, and in need of a little inspiration, this event is for you.  

Learn more and register your interest: https://www.union.co.uk/zag-conference-2025/ 

EVENT LISTING DETAIL:  

What: ZAG Conference 2025: Why Beauty Matters  

When: Thursday 5th June 2025, 4pm – 8pm Where: Union House, 18 Inverleith Terrace, Edinburgh, EH3 5NS  

How much: Free to attend, but tickets are limited and register in advance: https://www.union.co.uk/zag-conference-2025/