Founder & Director

Known as "Mr Impact," Hakeem is the CEO and Founder of Impact Dance, a nationally recognised arts organisation that's spent almost 30 years helping young people find confidence through movement and performance. He's also one of the industry's most in-demand red carpet hosts, having fronted premieres for Disney, Warner Bros, Paramount and Sony, from Barbie and Wonka to Avengers: Endgame and House of the Dragon. A sought-after motivational speaker on leadership and cultural intelligence, Hakeem built Hosting Lab on everything he's learned about presence, connection, and owning the room, on camera and off.

Lead Facilitator

Amelia Poamz (pronounced Po-amz) is a Hackney born presenter, events host and workshop facilitator known for her warm, grounded and professional approach. With over 10 years’ experience in the creative events industry and more than 5 years broadcasting on BBC Radio, Amelia has interviewed over 500 guests and hosted conversations for organisations including BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio London,
BBC Films, the Barbican and Channel 4.

Driven by a deep commitment to emerging creatives, Amelia founded The Under 5K Club, championing music artists with fewer than 5,000 followers, and co-created In-Facts, a community space for artists to share and develop new
work. She has also launched The Amelia Poamz Podcast, bringing UK creatives together for honest group conversations about culture, creativity and the industry.
Guided by her values of community, authenticity, compassion and impact, Amelia creates spaces where people feel heard, supported and genuinely connected.

Specialist Facilitator

Annaliese Dayes is a presenter, fashion content creator, stylist and voice over artist with a career built around two things she loves: connecting with people and fashion.

Her on-camera experience spans fashion, lifestyle and entertainment, with some of her highlights including hosting style segments on ITV’s Lorraine and The Steve Harvey Show in the US, as well as working as a QVC main presenter, where she hosted live shows across everything from beauty and fashion to home and interiors.

Her experience also extends beyond the camera. She has presented the iconic Club Classics on Heart Radio and continues to host a wide variety of live events.

Her career has taken her to some pretty memorable places — including competing on both Britain’s Next Top Model and America’s Next Top Model: British Invasion, where she fought off fierce competition to make it to the final three, earning praise from Tyra Banks herself and the esteemed line-up of judges.

Emerging Faculty Associate

Chimere Ihebuzor is a speaker, host, facilitator and transformation coach who brings energy, authenticity and connection to every room he enters. Having spoken at over 50 schools and hosted weddings, galas and leadership conferences, Chimere understands what it takes to engage an audience, read the room and create memorable experiences. His approach to hosting blends storytelling, humour, presence and audience interaction. As part of The Hosting Lab’s Founding Faculty, Chimere is passionate about helping emerging hosts build the confidence, skills and presence to truly own the room.