Tech Meets Community in Bournemouth: Re:connect 2025 Draws Hundreds to Vitality Stadium
Early Bird Tickets for 2026 Now Available
On July 4th, 2025, the Vitality Stadium became a hub of energy, ideas, and innovation as the re:connect Conference returned for its second year — bringing together over 150 of the brightest minds in technology, leadership, and innovation right here on the South Coast.
Now firmly established in the UK’s tech calendar, re:connect has set itself apart as a community-led tech conference designed to make high-calibre industry insights genuinely accessible. With low ticket prices, a focus on local and national talent, and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and veterans alike, organisers have set to reshape how tech events are delivered.
This year’s speaker line-up featured voices from across the tech landscape and sessions spanning AI ethics, data science, cybersecurity, software architecture, and tech leadership. Talks explored not only emerging trends, but also the real-world impact of technology on teams, organisations, and society.
The conference was opened by internationally renowned author and speaker Kevlin Henney, who opened the conference with a powerful keynote, ‘A Case for Technical Excellence.’ With characteristic wit and clarity, Kevlin challenged the audience to rethink how craftsmanship, quality, and curiosity shape long-term success in software and beyond. His talk set the tone for a day of rigorous thought and practical insight.
Other highlights of the 2025 event included:
- 33% of attendees were women, reflecting re:connect’s ongoing commitment to representation and inclusion in tech spaces.
- 20% of tickets were allocated to students and educational institutions, giving young people and early-career professionals front-row access to ideas that will shape their futures.
- Dozens of talks, lightning sessions, and workshops made the event an interactive, high-value experience for professionals at all levels.
The event was proudly supported by a coalition of forward-thinking organisations, including Prima, Flagstone, Equal IT, and Dorset Chamber — each playing a vital role in making the event possible and reinforcing its commitment to community, equity, and innovation.
Held at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium, the venue reflected the spirit of the event: bold, energising, and rooted in community.
“re:connect is proof that world-class conversations don’t need to be exclusive or expensive,” said Seemin Suleri, Founder and Director of re:connect . “We built this to bring people together — from students to CTOs — to ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and connect with purpose. The South Coast has something special to offer, and re:connect is just the beginning.”
Following another sold-out year, re:connect will return in July 2026 with plans to grow the programme and reach even further. Early bird tickets are now available at www.reconnectconference.co.uk.