Launch of the Northern Powerhouse Ethnic Minority Business Barometer 2024 at the House of Lords

The celebration commenced with a networking session, providing guests the opportunity to connect and engage with one another. The formal proceedings began with an introduction from Sharon Kaur Jandu OBE, Director of the Northern Powerhouse Ethnic Minority Business and Policy Forum, who emphasized the objectives and significance of the Barometer. Following this, Lord Bilimoria CBE DL welcomed everyone to this special occasion, setting the stage for an inspiring and informative event.

Throughout the afternoon and into the evening, attendees heard from an array of esteemed speakers. The lineup included:

• Canon Simon Baldwin, FEEUK, Associate Director of The Knowledge Exchange (TKE) at Leeds Beckett University
• Karen French, Partner for Real Estate at Squire Patton Boggs
• Philip J J Turnbull, CEO of the Association of International Accountants (AIA)
• Sanjeet Bajwa, Director for Business Consulting at EY
• Jennie Holdstock, Trade and Investment Manager for West Yorkshire Combined Authority
• Nathan Stephenson, Travel, Trade and Community Engagement Executive for Leeds Bradford Airport
• Prof Mohammad Faisal Ahammad, Leeds University Business School
• Kashif Ashraf, Member of the Public Sector Reform Board at Oldham Council

These influential leaders shared their insights and perspectives, enriching the event with their expertise and experiences.

The floor was then handed over to Kiran Trehan, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Partnerships and Engagement, and Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of York. Professor Trehan provided an update and expanded on the research conducted for the Barometer, highlighting key findings and future directions.

To conclude the launch, Mohammed Hussain, Managing Director at Pink Elephant Sales & Lettings Ltd, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to making the event a success.

The Northern Powerhouse Ethnic Minority Business Barometer 2024 launch was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders and stakeholders to celebrate and support the achievements and contributions of ethnic minority businesses in the region.

About the Northern Powerhouse Ethnic Minority Business Barometer

The Northern Powerhouse Ethnic Minority Business Barometer is an annual initiative aimed at tracking and promoting the progress of ethnic minority businesses within the Northern Powerhouse region. It serves as a crucial tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by these businesses and fostering an inclusive and thriving business environment.

Find out more here