James Kennaby Speaker | Technology & Enterprise & Creative & Careers & New Speakers & Music & Media

James Kennaby

Branding specialist; music producer; educator; podcast host; event creator. A dynamic and experienced media expert offering engaging and interactive talks and workshops that cover the diversity of his creative career.

James Kennaby has crafted a diverse career that spans music production, social media and branding, podcasting and event creation. Having developed his career to include working across Europe and breaking into the US, his passion for creative careers is unrivalled.

James’s earlier career saw him develop dynamic youth programmes supporting young people with media and music. His impact within Bristol’s youth work network, including developing Bristol’s first cross organisational network of 6 youth organisations, led to him being invited to the Houses of Parliament on behalf of Youth Music.

His dynamic, and bespoke approach has helped to develop brands for local companies, organisations and individuals alike, with a practical and detail oriented approach to promotion and social media strategy.

Within the national music scene, James is known for developing long-lasting and deep rooted community connections. With his career spanning from the managing editor of a national music magazine, to hosting and producing a podcast within the top 20% of specialist podcasts worldwide, his constant strive for quality outcomes is well recognised within his fields of work.

As a music producer, media graduate and qualified educator, James has worked with thousands of young people across the UK, using industry standard software and techniques to engage and inspire. He is known for building confidence and raising aspirations, going the extra mile to support wherever possible through talks and workshops.

James’ inspiring and interactive talks demonstrate a passion and knowledge for careers within the creative sector, and help to bring to life aspirations that students may previously have considered a pipe-dream. He has a rare ability to engage every student, reading the room, and adapting sessions and talks to ensure everyone is engaged, involved and leaves feeling motivated with tangible results.

Testimonials from Teachers

"I would like to endorse James Kennaby for his knowledge and teaching skills. He is an engaging speaker, and was an excellent host for our event. The energy and positivity that he brought was superhuman. No doubt he would do the same in any classroom situation."

– Justin Williams, Associate Professor, University of Bristol

“James Kennaby is a talented musician and producer and an exceptional educator who engages students with passion and empathy. He can translate his expertise into accessible and exciting learning experiences, integrating all levels of learners into his sessions with agility.”

– Kat Branch, Head of Centre For Music, UWE Bristol

“James was an absolute hit with our students on our Creative Careers Discovery day. His talk was both interactive and engaging, and pitched perfectly to our Year8s. He is clearly very knowledgeable and passionate in his specialism. He was a genuine, positive and friendly person who connected well with both staff and students and helped to motivate and raise aspirations with his energy and story, meeting our requirements perfectly. We’d highly recommend him.”

– Carolyn Yeganeh, Careers Coordinator, Redland Green School, Bristol