Wakefield’s Listening
July 6th, 2009 by emma_lHow often do you hear people complain about the fact that they’re not involved in shaping their own town and city – far too often! So it was a great opportunity to facilitate at the Wakefield Speaks Event, which gave local people the opportunity to do just that – have their say!
The theme for the event was Skills, Enterprise and Work and was delivered by Wakefield Together, the Local Strategic Partnership for the Wakefield District, which is made up of key organisations delivering the many services and activities that affect the lives of people who live, work, visit and do business in the area. Alongside partners, local people gave their views and ideas on how we can tackle important and urgent issues that affect our city and the surrounding areas.
Margaret Wood Chair of Wakefield First injected inspiration and optimism into the proceeding with the help of Jane Walton and local Make Your Mark ambassadors Nadine Hill and Daniel Rajkumar – this prestigious line up formed the official ‘Dragon’s Panel’ for the evening’s proceedings. No matter how often I hear these speakers they always inspire and stimulate my own entrepreneurial spirit!
Although I was eager to contribute to the lively debates, I stayed true to my role as facilitator to get to the heart of opinions. There were lots of issues discussed, including NEET’s, Apprenticeships, Lifelong Learning, Worklessness and Voluntary Work, our table focused on a self employment workshop – very opportune considering Open Communications is just nine months old! The table was divided about whether we should encourage enterprise in this current climate with concerns over risk and stability, whilst others recognised the many benefits that come with running your own business, not least the positive impact on individuals and the local economy.
There was consensus in a number of areas. The need to support those considering an enterprise journey through promoting confidence and offering stronger signposts to support and information – all of which helps individuals to make informed decisions about their future.
So what did this mean to Wakefield and its citizens? Well it certainly demonstrates that those driving and channelling change are listening, that there are plenty of people passionate about making their city a better, more vibrant enterprising place.
Well done Wakefield Speaks. Can’t wait for the next one!!
Recent Comments