Rise AV To Make ISE 2026 Debut

Rise AV and Rise Broadcast, the global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving gender diversity in technical industries, will make their first appearance at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026 on Stand EA315 in the East Entrance Hall.

Founded to empower women through professional development, representation, and community, the organisations' presence at ISE 2026 marks a major milestone. In addition to hosting daily drop-in sessions and community events, Rise AV is introducing a suite of practical safety and wellbeing initiatives designed to support women attending the show and address personal safety concerns that remain a challenge at global trade events.

Rachael Hamilton, Managing Director of Rise AV, said: "I can't remember how many times I've struggled to find a cab in Barcelona or Amsterdam and ended up walking home in the early hours of the morning, or been on a show floor and been ignored, made to feel worthless, or treated objectively. Sadly, I am not alone. This is a very real experience for many women at trade shows, and it simply isn't acceptable. We're not just talking about it — we’re putting real initiatives in place."

Safety and Wellbeing Initiatives at ISE 2026
With support from industry partners, Rise AV will roll out several initiatives to enhance attendee safety:
• Safe Car Initiative – Funded by Almo Pro AV, licensed, chauffeured taxis will operate from 22:00 to 04:00 with clearly designated pick-up points across the city. Vehicles will be branded with Rise AV and Almo Pro AV, and women can call a dedicated phone line to request transport: +34 697493558.
• Emergency Kits – Provided by Shure, complimentary kits with essentials such as sanitary products, pain relief, and hair ties will be available at the Rise AV stand (EA315).
• Safety Hotline & Safe Space – A hotline (+44 7478011217) and designated safe space at the Rise AV stand will provide support and a quiet area for attendees needing assistance.

Drop-in Sessions and Mentoring Opportunities
Rise AV will host daily sessions at its stand to showcase professional development programmes, mentoring opportunities, and broader community initiatives. Key sessions include:
• Tuesday 3 February, 15:00–16:00 – Learn About Rise AV’s Professional Development Programmes with Rachael Hamilton, Carla Maroussas, and Amber Holbrook (Ross Video, Rise AV Mentee Alumni)
• Wednesday 4 February, 14:00–15:00 – How to Attract More Women to Your Business with Carla Maroussas and Denise Hughes, Managing Director, Woop Jobs
• Thursday 5 February – Mentoring sessions with industry professionals and alumni
• Friday 6 February, 11:00–12:00 – How You Can Be Involved With Rise AV

Community Events
Global Headline Partner QSC will host the Rise AV Community Happy Hour on Tuesday, 3 February at 16:00 on their stand (2M300), as well as guided stand tours for community members.
Reflecting on the organisation’s growth, Hamilton added: "In just one year, Rise AV has grown from a bold idea into a programme making a real, measurable difference across the AV industry, globally. Through the Rise AV and Elevate programmes, we've supported women at critical points in their careers, built powerful mentoring relationships, and seen first-hand how this translates into confidence, progression and retention.

"The success of our mentoring programme has been incredibly strong that we’ve expanded into APAC this year, and applications for both the UK and APAC mentoring programmes are now open, closing on 31 January.

"We've also launched a Global Partner Programme for AV businesses, alongside regional sponsorship opportunities, with every pound going directly into empowering women in AV. For organisations looking to take a deeper, more strategic role, our Global Partner Programme offers the opportunity to help shape initiatives across mentoring, leadership development, events, and advocacy.

"And this is just the beginning. 2026 is a huge year for Rise AV, including the launch of the inaugural Rise AV Awards in May, celebrating the women, people, and organisations driving real change. Entries will be opening soon, and we’re incredibly excited about what's to come."

Rise AV’s debut at ISE 2026 underscores its commitment to supporting women in AV through safety, mentorship, and career development, while promoting inclusivity across the global industry.

www.rise-av.com