Authors Networking Event 2025 – London Highlights

London’s literary scene has always been electric, but every now and then an event reminds you just how passionate this community truly is. The Authors Networking Event 2025 – BB Gala, held on 11 October at My Buzzspace Shoreditch in London, was one of those occasions; a meeting ground for writers, editors, filmmakers, and book lovers who share the same language of creativity. Organised in partnership with Book Bistro, M&D Business Consultancy LTD, and listed on Eventbrite, this gathering was a place where future authors could stand alongside established names and where conversations flowed from fiction to film, from self-publishing to screenplay. And, in true book-lover fashion, there were even free books and signed copies offered to guests, a thoughtful surprise that made the day feel even more special.

The goal of the evening was clear: to connect, exchange ideas, and strengthen creative networks. The Authors Networking Event of this year brought human connection back into focus. Writers discussed upcoming projects, while editors shared insights on current publishing trends. There were real stories told in a space where everyone, regardless of genre or background, shared the same passion for words.

Meet the Speakers of the Authors Networking Event 2025 – BB Gala

*Soulla Christodoulou at the 2025 Authors Networking Event – BB Gala

One of the evening’s highlights was hearing from Soulla Christodoulou, a Greek-Cypriot novelist and writing coach known for her contemporary romance “The Village House”, “Broken Pieces of Tomorrow”, “The Summer Will Come”, and “The Magic of Miramare”, which are based on themes of love, identity, and belonging. Soulla’s background in education and her Cypriot heritage give her writing a distinctive authenticity. During her panel discussion, she spoke about the emotional honesty of writing and how each character she creates is a reflection of lived experiences, both hers and her readers’.

She also discussed the balance between the art and business of writing, noting that publishing success often comes when passion meets professionalism.

Another one of the evening’s highlights was hearing from Jaiveer Asthana, an emerging name who has already carved an impressive path as a novelist, screenwriter, and creative consultant. Best known for “Pull or Play YOU Choose”, Jaiveer has written a few children’s books available on Amazon and is currently working on two new novels. His latest project is an old-school fighting film which follows the story of Rowan, a talented boxer from the Traveller community, who battles discrimination on his path to becoming a champion.

The panel also featured Tracey Stewart, a celebrated author, book coach, ghostwriter, and the visionary founder of Freshly Press and W.R.I.T.E. Society. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to uplift authors through education, mentorship, and community. Tracey’s work has long been rooted in empowering others to tell their stories authentically. She spoke passionately about her journey, from self-publishing her first book to mentoring writers who have since gone on to secure publishing deals.

Together, Jaiveer Asthana, Tracey Stewart, and Soulla Christodoulou offered a panoramic view of the creative world. Their insights focused on editing, mentorship, filmmaking, and emotional storytelling, giving attendees a deep understanding of what it means to build a career in writing today.

The Authors Networking Event 2025 panel proved that there’s no single “right way” to be a writer – only the courage to tell your story your way. Throughout the evening, conversations branched out into topics like the evolution of digital publishing, the rise of short-form fiction on social media, and the growing synergy between books and film.

A Look Inside the Venue

No review would be complete without addressing the venue — and unfortunately, this part deserves honesty. The Authors Networking Event took place at My Buzzspace Shoreditch, a location that, at least online, appears modern, polished, and vibrant.

However, the reality differed significantly from what many attendees expected based on the venue’s official website photos. Instead of a bright, welcoming coworking space, the event was held in the basement, where lighting was dim, the walls showed clear signs of wear, and the overall hygiene left much to be desired. Several guests quietly mentioned that the space didn’t reflect the professional caliber of the event itself. Damaged furniture, unclean tables, and poor ventilation made it difficult to fully enjoy the otherwise excellent discussions.

For an event built around creativity and collaboration, one that brought together talented authors, mentors, and filmmakers, the setting simply didn’t do it justice. A networking event for writers isn’t just about the program or the panel; it’s about the atmosphere. The venue sets the tone and influences how comfortable people feel sharing ideas, meeting new contacts, and immersing themselves in conversation.

For events like the Authors Networking Event 2025 BB Gala, where professionals come to discuss artistry, literature, and film, presentation is key. The guests deserved a space that matched their passion, a venue that felt as inspiring as the words spoken that evening.

*The self-service buffet offered at the Authors Networking Event

Every event leaves a trail of insights for future planning. For organizers, one of the key lessons here is the importance of selecting a venue that aligns with the event’s purpose.

The Authors Networking Event demonstrated that people are willing to overlook flaws when genuine passion and value are present. However, providing a visually appealing, clean, and comfortable space should be a non-negotiable aspect of any professional gathering.

Despite the venue’s flaws, the Authors Networking Event 2025 BB Gala remains an inspiring memory of connection and creativity. The evening reminded everyone present why writing (in all its forms) continues to matter. With panelists like Jaiveer Asthana, Tracey Stewart, and Soulla Christodoulou leading the conversation, the event successfully captured the spirit of creative collaboration.