Make Influence Meaningful: Parliament Brings Together Cultural Leaders, Media Icons and Changemakers for a Landmark Assembly

pThe Chairwoman of the Parliamentary Society for Arts, Rebeca Riofrio, brought together cultural leaders, media icons, and Changemakers for a Landmark Assembly

Pictures by Kam Murali

There are many events held within the historic walls of the House of Commons. Some are remembered for policy. Others for politics. A few become memorable because of the people who gather within them.

The Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion & Sports Assembly 2026 was one such occasion.

Hosted by Alex Davies-Jones MP and chaired by Rebeca Riofrio, founder and chairwoman of the Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion & Sports, the Assembly brought together an exceptional group of leaders from the worlds of media, fashion, entertainment, business, philanthropy, advocacy and the arts for an evening dedicated to one central theme: how influence can be used responsibly to create a better society.

The calibre of individuals gathered at Westminster was extraordinary. Collectively, the speakers, honourees and distinguished guests represented a combined social media following exceeding 20 million people worldwide, alongside decades of influence across international media, entertainment, fashion, television, entrepreneurship and public life. Yet despite the prominence of those in attendance, the evening was not about celebrity. It was about responsibility. It was about how those with a voice can use it to protect, inspire and contribute positively to future generations.

Opening the Assembly, Alex Davies-Jones MP welcomed guests and reinforced the importance of creating safer and more accountable environments across the creative industries. Her work championing victims and addressing violence against women and girls provided a fitting foundation for the conversations that followed.

Rebeca Riofrio then addressed the audience, reflecting on the journey of the Parliamentary Society since its founding in 2019. She spoke of the growing need for meaningful conversations around safeguarding, online abuse, bullying, mental health, inclusion and responsibility, particularly within industries that shape public opinion and cultural values.

Throughout the evening, guests heard from a remarkable group of speakers whose personal experiences and professional achievements offered valuable insight into the realities of modern influence.

Leanne Elliott Young, entrepreneur, innovator and co-founder of the IoDF Platform, spoke passionately about leadership, technology and creating opportunities for future generations. Her remarks highlighted the importance of ethical innovation and ensuring that progress serves people rather than simply advancing technology.

Holly Scarfone brought honesty and authenticity to the discussion, sharing reflections on visibility, resilience and the pressures faced by young women navigating public life in the digital age. Her contribution resonated strongly with many in attendance, particularly younger professionals seeking to build careers while maintaining their personal identity.

Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, one of the United Kingdom's most recognised television personalities, spoke candidly about public scrutiny, self-development and the responsibilities that accompany influence. Her reflections demonstrated both vulnerability and strength, reminding the audience that success often comes with challenges unseen by the public.

Bryan Gómez offered thoughtful observations on creativity, perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's values while building a career in highly competitive industries.

As the evening progressed, attention turned to recognising individuals whose achievements have left a significant mark on society.

One of the most celebrated moments of the Assembly came with the presentation of the Medal of Honour for Lifetime Achievement in Fashion Journalism and Cultural Influence to Suzy Menkes OBE.

For decades, Menkes has been one of fashion's most respected and influential voices. Her journalism has documented generations of designers, cultural movements and global transformations within the industry. Her acceptance speech reflected the wisdom and elegance that have defined her extraordinary career, reminding the audience that curiosity and integrity remain the foundations of great journalism.

Andrea Thompson was awarded the Medal of Honour for Excellence in Global Communication.

Throughout a distinguished international career, Thompson has helped shape communications strategies for organisations and leaders operating on a global stage. Her work has consistently demonstrated that communication, when carried out with honesty and clarity, can become a powerful force for connection and understanding.

Denise Parkinson, Vice President of Sales at Variety, received the Medal of Honour for Global Leadership in Entertainment Media.

Representing one of the world's most influential entertainment publications, Parkinson has played a significant role in fostering relationships across the international film, television and media sectors. Her recognition reflected both professional excellence and a commitment to strengthening the global entertainment community.

Entrepreneur David Ben-David, founder of the internationally recognised lifestyle brand Sprayground, received the Medal of Honour for Cultural Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment.

In one of the evening's most heartfelt moments, Ben-David paid tribute to the family members and colleagues who helped him build his business from an ambitious idea into a global brand. His remarks highlighted the values of perseverance, loyalty and gratitude.

Rhea Maria Elliott was presented with the Medal of Honour for Welfare Advocacy.

Her work supporting vulnerable individuals and championing mental health awareness has touched countless lives. The recognition reflected not only her professional commitment but also her compassion and determination to improve the wellbeing of others.

Natalia Kapchuk received the Medal of Honour for Environmental Stewardship Through the Arts.

Through her advocacy, philanthropy and environmental initiatives, Kapchuk has demonstrated how culture and creativity can be powerful tools for promoting sustainability and responsible leadership. Her work continues to inspire international audiences to engage more actively with environmental issues.

Dr Patricia Caiza was honoured with the Medal of Honour for International Trade and Community Support.

A respected leader within the international business community, Dr Caiza has consistently championed collaboration, opportunity and support for emerging entrepreneurs while helping strengthen relationships between nations and communities.

Karina Dubina received the Medal of Honour for Refugee Enterprise and Inclusion.

Her work supporting displaced individuals, particularly women affected by conflict, has become an inspiring example of resilience, leadership and determination. Through enterprise and advocacy, she continues to create opportunities for those rebuilding their lives under difficult circumstances.

The Assembly also recognised individuals whose influence extends beyond conventional professional achievements.

Kyle De'Volle received a Cultural Influence Medal in recognition of his advocacy, visibility and contribution to equality and representation. Through fashion, television and public engagement, he has become a respected voice promoting diversity and inclusion.

Aiden London was awarded a Cultural Influence Medal for his ability to bring people together through humour, storytelling and authentic digital engagement. His work demonstrates the positive potential of modern social media influence when used responsibly.

Alexei Bezrukov received a Cultural Influence Medal for his continued support of theatre, music, culture and the performing arts. His dedication to promoting artistic excellence has benefited numerous cultural initiatives and creative communities.

The evening also paid tribute to individuals whose work often takes place behind the scenes.

Official photographer Kam Murali received the Medal of Excellence for Services to the Parliamentary Society in recognition of his dedication to documenting important cultural moments and preserving the stories of those being celebrated.

As discussions continued, guests participated in an open-floor session that encouraged honest dialogue and practical solutions. Leaders from different sectors shared experiences and explored how influence could be used more responsibly to address some of the challenges affecting modern society.

What emerged throughout the evening was a powerful sense of common purpose.

Fashion leaders sat beside media executives. Entrepreneurs exchanged ideas with philanthropists. Public figures listened carefully to emerging voices. The conversation moved beyond titles, industries and accolades, focusing instead on shared values and collective responsibility.

The Assembly served as a reminder that influence is not measured solely by followers, headlines or public recognition.

It is measured by impact.

It is measured by the willingness to use one's platform to support others.

It is measured by the courage to speak about difficult issues and the determination to create meaningful change.

As guests departed Westminster beneath the evening sky, they left carrying more than medals, certificates and photographs.

They left with a renewed sense of purpose.

For a few hours inside Parliament, some of the most influential voices across media, fashion, entertainment, business and the arts came together not to celebrate themselves, but to explore how they might better serve others.

And in doing so, they embodied the very message at the heart of the Parliamentary Society Assembly 2026:

Make Influence Meaningful.