You’ve got a great idea - now learn how to make it shine! In this session, we’ll explore how to develop a strong presentation proposal, craft a short and effective speaker bio, and design a talk that keeps audiences engaged. Perfect for younger genealogists looking to step into the spotlight, this session gives you the tools to turn your love of family history into professional-level presentations that stand out at conferences.
- Free online event for anyone planning to submit a proposal for NextGEN 2026
Call for presentations
Society of Genealogists and Family History Federation are jointly arranging an online conference to be held Saturday 14 November 2026.
Those aged 16 to 35 years of age on 14 November 2026 are invited to submit proposals for presentations.
Topics
We are looking for a variety of genealogy and family history topics on the theme of "New Connections". A focus on topics of interest to younger genealogist is preferred.
Format
Presentations should be 20 minutes. They may be presented live or pre-recorded and all speakers should be present for a Q&A session following their presentation. They should be delivered in English. They may be individual or joint by 2 or more presenters.
Terms
We expect to be able to pay presenters through sponsorship, details to be confirmed. Accepted presenters under 18 years of age will be required to submit evidence of parental approval to take part prior to the event.
Submit
Proposals should be emailed to events@sog.org.uk and should include:
- The presenters name(s), email address(es) and age(s).
- Brief bio (approx. 50 words)
- Draft title
- Short summary of presentation
Dates
- Deadline for submission of proposals: Sunday 12 July 2026
- Notification of acceptance: Friday 14 August 2026
- Conference: Saturday 14 November 2026
Society of Genealogists: https://www.sog.org.uk/
Family History Federation: https://www.familyhistoryfederation.com/
Click here for information about our events. Contact events@sog.org.uk if you have any questions.
About the Speaker
Joe Saunders
Joe Saunders is a freelance researcher based in the north of England, focussing primarily on the early modern period (c.1500-1780). He is also working on a PhD at the University of York researching a social history of the print trade in seventeenth century England. He teaches undergraduates at York, at the University’s Centre for Lifelong Learning, and courses on local history for Pharos Tutors. He is a Trustee and Outreach Team member of the British Association for Local History, an Associate of the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives, and an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.