Meet Our Expert Speakers
Parents & Families Speaking at our London Event
Thinking about surrogacy, IVF or donor conception? Whether you’re just starting out or already in the process, the journey can feel overwhelming. Legal, financial, and emotional complexities often go far beyond what you expect.
Join us at the Surrogacy & Donor Conception Conference in London to hear first-hand insights from parents who’ve travelled this path and connect with international experts. Get clear, honest advice and practical guidance to help you make informed decisions with confidence.
Real answers. Expert support. No sales pitches.
Why Attend Our London Event?
We’ve designed a programme packed with essential information, honest discussions and valuable opportunities to connect with those who truly understand the journey.
Real Stories,
Practical Advice
Hear directly from UK and European parents who have been through surrogacy or donor journey and get a realistic picture of the process
Expert
Guidance
Join interactive Q&A sessions with leading professionals from around the world, covering the legal, medical, and logistical aspects that matter most to you
Understanding
Costs & Risks
Get a realistic breakdown of expenses, potential hurdles and what to prepare for when things don’t go to plan
Your Ticket Includes
A complimentary journey planner + other giveaways
Morning tea and full lunch
Introductions to peer support networks
Pre-booked one-on-one consultations with expert speakers of your choice
25% discount on a Growing Families professional consultation
Your Complimentary Journey Planner
Your starting point for understanding surrogacy and egg donation. Clear, practical advice to help you take the next step with confidence.
SPEAKERS AT OUR LONDON
SURROGACY & EGG DONOR EVENT
Dr. Melvin Thornton II
Medical Director
Global Fertility & Genetics, USA
Dr. Thornton is one of the world’s leading experts in egg donation, surrogacy and has done extensive research in fertility treatment for HIV+ couples. His patients describe him as a reassuring, caring, and personable physician.
Carla Maeda
Founder, Creating Your Dreams
Surrogacy, Mexico
The founder of Creating Your Dreams Surrogacy, Carla brings over a decade of ART experience and a deep personal commitment to supporting surrogates and intended parents with empathy and care.
Jake Graf
Parent via UK surrogacy
Jake and Hannah were the first UK trans couple to navigate surrogacy. Before transitioning, Jake had undergone fertility preservation and had five embryos on ice. They explored options internationally before Laura came into their lives and in 2020, birthed their daughter. They’ll share their journey
What You’ll Learn
Surrogacy and donor conception come with big decisions – and even bigger questions. At the Surrogacy & Donor Conception Conference in London, we’ll cut through the confusion with expert advice and real experiences.
Some of the Questions We’ll Answer:
- Which country is best for surrogacy? A breakdown of legal rights, costs, and practical considerations in key destinations
- How do you choose the right donor? Understanding medical, legal, and personal factors when selecting an egg or sperm donor
- How does IVF fit into the journey? What to expect, how to improve success rates and how it works alongside surrogacy or donor conception
- What are the most common mistakes to avoid? Spotting red flags with agencies, legal pitfalls, and ensuring ethical treatment
- What legal steps should you take? Get clear guidance on protecting yourself and ensuring a smooth, compliant process
We’ll also cover many more topics, along with the specific concerns and challenges you may be facing on your journey. Our goal is to provide the clarity, support and expert advice that will help you take the next step with confidence.
Parents & Families Speaking at our Melbourne Event
London Surrogacy & Egg Donor Event Agenda
Note for Legal Professionals: We’ll have a morning session at 9AM for where we discuss key legal aspects of international surrogacy. If you’re a professional in the surrogacy and egg donation space, you’re welcome to join! View more details here.
10:30 AM –
10:50 AM
Welcome Note: Considerations in International Family Building
Speakers: Sam Everingham
Starting your family through surrogacy or egg donation comes with important decisions. This session explores global options, key considerations, and what to expect in terms of costs, timelines, risks, and resources. We’ll also walk you through the agenda to help you get the most out of the day.
10:50 AM –
11:20 AM
IVF & Egg Donation Panel
Moderator: Francoise Shenfield Expert Panel: Dr Melvin Thornton, Dr. Rahi Victory, Katie Ingram
Choosing an egg donor or undergoing IVF can feel overwhelming. Our panel of experts will break down the medical process, donor selection, success rates, and common challenges. Hear firsthand experiences from a parent who has navigated this journey successfully.
11:20 AM –
11:50 AM
Legal & Ethical Considerations in Surrogacy
Moderator: Sam Everingham
Expert Panel: Natalie Gamble (UK), Alex McNab (Canada), Nino Bogveradze (Georgia), Dr. Vasanti Jadva (UK)
Surrogacy laws differ by country and can be complex. Our legal experts will clarify citizenship, passport eligibility, and common legal hold-ups. This session will also explore the latest research on the psychological well-being of surrogates, parents, and children born via surrogacy and egg donation, providing valuable insights into long-term outcomes.
11:50 AM –
12:10 PM
Morning Tea
12:10 PM –
12:40 PM
International Surrogacy Experts Panel
Moderator: Sam Everingham
Expert Panel: Anastasia Polonska (Georgia), Naia Adamia (N Cyprus), Allie Manterfield (US), Santiago Martinez (Colombia), Carla Maeda (Mexico)
Learn directly from experienced professionals who will cover program options, costs, agency selection, and country-specific regulations. Get insights into the best destinations for your unique circumstances.
12:40 PM –
01:10 PM
International Parent Journeys
Moderator: Vasanti Jadva Panelists: Shaun Thomas (Dad via Colombia), Rose Childerhouse (Mum via Georgia), Robert Prosser (Dad via US) Jake Graf (Parent via UK)
Real parents share real experiences. Hear their decision-making process, relationships with surrogates, overcoming cultural barriers, managing costs, and navigating legal parentage. A must-attend session for those wanting a candid look at the surrogacy journey.
01:10 PM –
01:30 PM
The Impact on Families
Panelists: Meredith Baldwin; Sophie Cook
What is it like growing up as a child born through surrogacy or egg donation? This heart-warming session gives unique insights into the long-term impact of surrogacy on families.
01:30 PM –
01:35 PM
Closing Remarks
Summary, One-on-one consultation opportunities, Concierge support
01.35 PM –
02:15 PM
Lunch & Networking
02:15 PM –
04:10 PM
Optional Consultations with Experts
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