Fuel up for the day, collect your badge and materials, and enjoy a relaxed networking breakfast. This is a great opportunity to connect with peers and meet members of the Awardco team before the programme begins. Menu English breakfast tea, coffee, selection of herbal infusions, fruit juices, fruit and vegetable smoothies. Yoghurt, fruit and granola pots, Alpro soya yoghurts, cheese and tomato croissants, mini Danish pastries and a seasonal fruit selection.

Hear from Awardco CEO Steve Sonnenberg as he opens RCGNZ London. He’ll outline the vision for the day and explore how recognition is reshaping the way organisations work, lead, and connect their people.

From the world’s biggest stage to moments that demanded courage beyond competition, Olympic champions Aly Raisman and Beth Tweddle share their journeys of excellence, resilience, and leadership in high-pressure environments. Together, Aly and Beth will reflect on what it truly means to be recognised—not just for medals won, but for perseverance, integrity, impact, and so much more. Through personal stories and global perspective, Aly and Beth explore how recognition can empower individuals, strengthen cultures, and create environments where people feel valued and supported. This powerful opening keynote sets the tone for the day, challenging leaders to rethink how they recognise effort, humanity, and greatness in their organisations.

Take a short refresh break with coffee, light bites, and networking. The Thames Room will be open for anyone who’d like to connect with Awardco product leaders or members of our Centre of Excellence for informal conversations, quick questions, or a closer look at how recognition programmes are being brought to life.

What truly motivates employees to perform at their best? Organisational psychologist Sarah Marrs, alongside fellow Awardco Centre of Excellence (COE) member Christi Gilhoi, will share new research exploring this critical question. As organisations navigate hybrid working and the growing role of technology, HR leaders are being called to adopt a more human-centred approach—one that supports autonomy, allows for experimentation, and meets the increasingly individualised expectations of today’s workforce. This session unpacks key motivation archetypes and behavioural responses, offering practical insight into how leaders can scale recognition through technology while maintaining a personal, meaningful experience.