Inspiring entrepreneurial leadership for our society, economy and a thriving future

On Monday night, an inspiring group of entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers, and change-makers gathered at the University of York to share a vision for a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient economy fueled by innovation. The event showcased the power of entrepreneurial thinking in addressing society's most pressing challenges and creating opportunities for all, regardless of background.

The University of York champions the idea that entrepreneurship is not solely about creating businesses; it's about shaping the future, fostering diversity, and empowering emerging talent from all corners of our communities. Discussions centered on female, ethnic minority, family, and social entrepreneurship underscored how diverse perspectives can lead to stronger, more effective solutions to contemporary issues.

The highlight of the evening was a keynote address by Lord Karan Bilimoria, whose journey in building a global brand served as a testament to the importance of resilience, innovation, and inclusive leadership. His three pivotal points resonated with attendees:

1. Champions - "Things do not happen without champions."
2. Investment - "The environment you create must attract investment."
3. Creativity - "Nothing will unlock more economic opportunity than creativity."

The event also featured inspiring talks from Tariq Shah OBE, Nico Ceballos Jones, and Andrea Morrison, who shared powerful stories emphasizing the need for relatable role models and the call to action for aspiring entrepreneurs to “stop whining” and drive the change they wish to see in the world.

Julie Baker highlighted the significant efforts being made at the national level to support female entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of enabling investment, access, and care provision. Meanwhile, James Farrar stressed the necessity of identifying future entrepreneurs, noting that “too many people have the potential to be entrepreneurs but don’t realize it.”

As the region faces pivotal changes, leaders across various sectors are uniting to drive prosperity, reduce inequalities, and create pathways for future jobs. Innovation, collaboration, and representation emerged as key themes throughout the evening, illuminating the opportunity and pathways to achieving sustainable economic growth.

The event at the University of York demonstrated that, with collective effort and a shared vision, a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient economy is within reach. Together, the leaders and change-makers in attendance affirmed their commitment to fostering an environment where innovation can thrive, benefiting all members of society.