#WeLeadComms: Karin Helmstaedt

The #WeLeadComms spotlight falls today on Berlin-based freelance conference moderator and journalist Karin Helmstaedt.

In her words:  

“I’m a moderator, journalist, and documentary filmmaker with more than 25 years’ experience helping people have better conversations.  

“Whether I’m moderating a European policy summit, interviewing CEOs, scientists or political leaders, or facilitating discussions on topics ranging from AI and communications to manufacturing, mobility and civil protection, my role is always the same: to create conversations that are insightful, engaging and memorable for everyone in the room.  

“Long-standing clients include the European Association of Communication Directors (EACD), the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO), and international companies including LyondellBasell and  Emerson.  

“For me, good moderation begins long before anyone steps onto the stage. It starts with curiosity, careful preparation and understanding what success looks like for the client, speakers and the audience. I enjoy uncovering the questions that haven’t been asked, encouraging authentic conversation rather than rehearsed talking points, and creating an atmosphere where speakers feel comfortable enough to move beyond the script. People often tell me that my strength is my ability to hold the room – not by dominating it, but by creating the space for meaningful exchange.  

“Increasingly, I also work with clients behind the scenes, advising on conference and panel design, shaping programmes and narratives, and helping build communities around events and organisations.  

“Born in Canada and based in Germany, I work fluently in three languages, and have spent  more than two decades with Deutsche Welle, Germany’s global broadcaster, where I presented programmes including its flagship culture magazine, euromaxx, and the Arts & Culture News. I have also co-written and directed documentaries exploring history, science, sports and culture.  

“My background is an unusual mix of sport, languages, literature and storytelling. I studied Phys. Ed. and Literary Studies at the University of Toronto and McGill, followed by a degree in French Language and Literature from the Sorbonne in Paris. Before journalism, I represented Canada internationally as a competitive swimmer at the Commonwealth Games, World Championships and Pan American Games. Sport taught me resilience, discipline, team spirit, and how to stay composed under pressure – qualities that continue to serve me well.  

“That combination of disciplines continues to shape the way I work: with curiosity, a strong  sense of narrative and a fascination for how people communicate and make sense of the  world around them. Looking ahead, I’m eager to devote more time to long-form documentary projects and writing, while continuing to connect people in meaningful ways –  finding their voices, their unique stories and legacies.”

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