Birmingham City University's annual Rethink Media conference returns next month aiming to address issues of diversity in the digital and media industry.

This year's speaker line-up includes Mark Frankel, social media editor for BBC News, and Tim Plyming, director of digital arts and media at innovation charity Nesta.

Issues of representation and diversity on- and off-screen will be debated during the day which is the fourth to be held by the university.

Also speaking at the event is Alia Lamaadar from global communications app Slack and Mandy Combes, head of creative operations, marketing and audiences at the BBC.

Award-winning journalist and broadcaster Marverine Cole will host the event.

Ms Cole said: "I'm delighted to be hosting this year's conference which promises to be a day full of lively debate and discussion on the next generation of content creators and consumers.

"We'll also be looking at how media organisations can better engage audiences across different platforms, as well as how issues of diversity play a part in this."

Other speakers at the event include former Google director Frank Golding and Emma Mulqueeny, recently listed as one of the most influential women in technology in the UK.

The event starts at 9.30am on March 16 at BCU's Parkside building in Curzon Street and more information and tickets can be bought at the event website.

Rethink Media forms part of Digital Birmingham Week 2016 which aims to enhance digital abilities and promote cross-industry partnerships.