A Message from Our CEO- Where Innovation Took Centre Stage

Sometimes a single day can remind us why we do what we do.

At Canada House, surrounded by visionaries, engineers, creators, and future leaders, we experienced more than a showcase—we witnessed a movement. A sector stepping up not just with bold ideas, but with purpose, community, and heart.

The day began with the Canadian Water Dragons Heat, where eight pioneering companies pitched powerful solutions to some of water’s toughest challenges. From nutrient recovery to AI decision-making, advanced filtration to data fusion—the creativity and clarity of vision were extraordinary.

BioLargo was crowned the 2025–2026 Canadian Heat winner, recognised for their game-changing approach to PFAS removal—offering hope in a world urgently seeking answers. Livestock Water Recycling, with their transformative circular system for manure and wastewater, earned a well-deserved Highly Commended mention. Both now head to the UK Final, carrying with them the energy and ambition of a continent.

As day turned to evening, we stepped into celebration mode—with the Future Water Awards and the Water Dragons UK Final. It was here that inspiration deepened.

Abydoz claimed the Water Dragons title, applauded for their mobile reed bed rejuvenation units—offering low-energy, modular solutions that could serve communities across the globe. Highly Commended went to Permalution, with their elegant fog-harvesting membranes designed for water-scarce regions, and Steve Vick International, whose safety tools are redefining infrastructure delivery. These weren’t just projects. They were visions of a better future, already in motion. These companies—alongside Wizzo, Water Gate AI, and Furst Technologies—formed an outstanding group of finalists in our Water Dragons Final, each offering bold, inspiring solutions to some of the sector’s biggest challenges.

But innovation isn’t just about technology. It’s about people.

We were honoured to celebrate those shaping the future, today. Abby Stern of Thames Water received the Emerging Talent Award, having saved millions of litres through data-driven leakage work—and now stepping into her new role as Chair of the Emerging Talent Group. Poppy Anderson of Stantec, just four years into her career, has already helped save over 124 million litres per day across North London. Both are not just rising stars—they’re leaders already.

The People Award reminded us that change is cultural as much as it is technical. Louise Elliott of WSP was recognised for her commitment to leading with equity and purpose. And Highly Commended went to Gareth Ingram of RPS and Total Water Compliance, whose work creating inclusive spaces and people-first programmes is building a stronger, more sustainable sector.

And then there were the stories that stayed with us long after the applause faded.

Akeem Adenuga, through his charity Merry-Gold Water, is delivering clean, safe water to thousands in rural Nigeria—an extraordinary act of commitment beyond the day job. Sophie Tankard of WSP , meanwhile, is leading the way on Natural Flood Management across the UK. Both are shaping lasting legacies, driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility.

A guest later shared:“As someone new to the water sector, the night was truly eye-opening. It helped me understand the power of what Future Water does—and why it matters so much.”

That’s the magic of moments like this. They connect. They inspire. They show us what’s possible.

To every nominee, judge, presenter, participant, and supporter—thank you. Your courage, creativity, and dedication made this one of our most memorable events yet. We’re excited for what’s ahead—because the future of water is in very capable hands.

If you’d like to explore getting involved with the Future Water Awards, Water Dragons, or our wider programmes—our door is open.

Here’s to a future built on talent, trust, and transformation.

CEO, Future Water