On Wednesday, 20th November, we had the privilege of hosting the We Are Wakefield Ambassador Dinner at the beautiful Wakefield Cathedral. Under the stunning backdrop of the Cathedral’s Chapter House, we gathered to celebrate and give thanks to the incredible support we’ve received over the past year from our esteemed Ambassadors.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Ambassadors who have supported throughout 2024:

• The Nostell Estate
• Prosper Wakefield District
• Juice Personnel
• RV2 Power
• Thornton Jones Solicitors
• Solupak
• Quest Waste Management
• Vision IFAs
• Elis
• OE Electrics

These elite members play a crucial role in fostering a supportive, collaborative community, bringing together businesses, VCSEs, education, local authorities, and sectors such as leisure and culture. Their ongoing dedication is helping shape the future of Wakefield’s thriving community.

The evening was made even more special with a delicious meal from Create, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the Cathedral pianist, creating a magical atmosphere. A huge thank you to Kraft Media Services for capturing these unforgettable moments.

It’s been an incredible 12 months, and we look forward to even more success in the year ahead as we continue to strengthen our network and community!

#WeAreWakefield #AmbassadorDinner #BusinessCommunity #SupportLocal #Collaboration #Wakefield #Networking #Leadership

We wanted to help people with great ideas to set up and start their own businesses with some solid advice along the way. Nigel Greenwood from BuBul has collaborated with 20 other WAW members to produce the WAW version of BuBul – the world’s first software that works out what advice someone needs to successfully launch a business and delivers it from experts who have been there, done that and got the t-shirt!

The WAW version of BuBul has now launched and features only WAW members as experts! It’s free to anyone wanting to start their own business so please spread the word!

Interested in getting involved? There’s no cost to being an expert but you have to be happy to give a start-up at least 30 minutes of your time at no cost to them. For further details contact [email protected]

If you want to see what it’s all about, you can register for WAW BuBul HERE 

Pre-Loved Fashion Event

A Sustainable Twist on Glamour ahead of the Wakefield Business Awards

We Are Wakefield, led by MD Claire Sutherley, has always been about community, creativity, and conscious living. So when Claire and Solupak MD Helen McDonald hatched an idea a couple of years ago, it was no surprise that it involved fashion with a twist: pre-loved, sustainable, and utterly fabulous. The event was hosted at Solupak’s manufacturing HQ in Castleford.

The Collaborators

This year, they joined forces with some remarkable partners:

• Rachel Smith from Clutter is the Enemy: A decluttering guru who knows that less is more.
• Lisa Milburn from Community Foundation Wakefield District: A champion for local causes and families in need.
• Shannon Gilbert from En Route Hair and Beauty: Because great hair is the ultimate accessory.

How It Worked

Attendees generously donated their pre-loved clothing items, creating a treasure trove of fashion waiting to find new homes. But this wasn’t just a one-way street. Oh no! The magic happened when guests were allowed to exchange their donations for other fabulous finds. It was like a high-end clothing swap, where sustainability met style.

Posing Tips and Hair Magic

The event wasn’t just about clothes—it was an experience. Ace photographer Perrin Read of Roth Read Photography shared posing tips, turning everyone into a runway model. Meanwhile, En Route’s Mel Tudor worked her hairstyling magic, ensuring that attendees looked red-carpet ready.

The Buffet: A Feast for the Senses

As guests mingled and tried on their newfound treasures, they also indulged in a beautiful buffet courtesy of The Caring Kitchen. Because nothing complements sustainable fashion like delicious food.

The Mayor’s Special Role

The Mayor of Wakefield, Cllr Darren Byford, graced the event with his presence. He even drew the raffle, adding an extra touch of elegance to the proceedings.

Giving Back

But it wasn’t all about glamour and style. We Are Wakefield believes in community impact. Proceeds from the raffle and any leftover clothing were donated to Community Foundation Wakefield District, supporting families in need across the Wakefield area.

A Toast to Sustainability

And what’s a fabulous event without a touch of wine? Jean Juvinierre Wines provided a special tasting, raising a glass to sustainability and community spirit.

Cheers!

We Are Wakefield’s pre-loved fashion event at Solupak Ltd. was more than just a soirée—it was a celebration of conscious choices, collaboration, and making a difference. Cheers to sustainable style! 🌿👗🥂

Have you got your tickets for the Wakefield Business Awards?  Join us for an amazing night celebrating the best of Wakefield!  Get your tickets HERE!

Here are some images from the event:

At We Are Wakefield (WAW), we believe in community, collaboration, and making a positive impact. So, when the opportunity arose to roll up our sleeves and support The Prince of Wales Hospice in Pontefract, our members jumped at the chance.

On a sunny Thursday morning, armed with enthusiasm and a can-do spirit, our WAW crew—comprising of fantastic individuals from local businesses—descended upon the hospice grounds. Let me introduce you to our dynamic squad:

1. Karen, David, Kyle, and Grace from Handelsbanken Wakefield: These financial wizards brought their banking prowess and a willingness to tackle any task. David, the Sweeping Maestro, armed with a sweeping brush, David kept our paths clear and our spirits high.
2. Rowana from Nosh Rocks: Our no-carbs expert, Rowana, was ready to whip up some magic—though this time, it was garden magic!
3. Jez from Pennine Recruitment: Jez, our recruitment guru, proved that he’s not just about finding the right people for jobs; he’s also a pro at jet washing.
4. Louise from The Northern Badge Company: Louise, with her eye for detail, ensured that no nook or cranny escaped our cleaning frenzy.
5. Jodie from Affordable Accountancy Solutions (aka Jet Wash Jodie): Jodie lived up to her nickname, wielding the jet wash like a superhero.

And of course, our hosts, Colin and Adrian from The Prince of Wales Hospice, guided us through the day.

Our Mission: Dismantle, Clean, and Transform

Our tasks were as diverse as our team. First, we tackled a large marquee, dismantling it with precision. Then came the heavy floor panels—cue Jez’s jet wash magic. The gardens received some much-needed TLC, and the walkways sparkled after Jodie’s path-cleaning prowess.

By the end of the day, we were a mix of sweat, laughter, and camaraderie. Poor Jez might have been drenched, but his smile never wavered. David’s sweeping skills were unmatched, and everyone got to know each other beyond business cards and LinkedIn profiles.

Networking with Heart

As we worked side by side, we realized that networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards—it’s about building connections, sharing stories, and supporting one another. And all this while contributing to an incredible cause.

The Prince of Wales Hospice provides vital care to those facing life-limiting illnesses. As a charity, they rely on community support. Our efforts today—whether moving marquee panels or scrubbing garden paths—directly contributed to their mission.

At WAW, we’re passionate about collaboration, and this volunteering day embodied that spirit. We left tired but fulfilled, knowing that our teamwork had made a difference.

So, here’s to more days of rolling up our sleeves, networking with heart, and supporting amazing charities. That’s what We Are Wakefield is all about.

🌟 We Are Wakefield Quiz Night: A Night of Trivia and Triumph! 🎉

On Tuesday, 30th April, the vibrant community of Wakefield gathered at Hickory’s Smokehouse in Horbury for an exhilarating evening—the We Are Wakefield Quiz Night. Teams from various sectors came together to test their knowledge, compete, eat great food and, of course, have a blast!

The Highlights:

Champion Team:

A massive congratulations to the Community Foundation Wakefield District team! They clinched victory, taking home the coveted trophy and a thrilling £100 Hickory’s Experience. 🏆🔥

Brain-Teasing Rounds:

The competition was fierce! Five rounds of tough questions spanned a variety of subjects—history, pop culture, science, and more. Minds were put to the test, and the energy in the room was electric.

Best Team Name:

Kudos to the Linley & Simpson team for their creative flair! Their team name, “Winner Winner Smokehouse Dinner,” won hearts, laughs and best team name prize. 🍽️🎤

Interim Round Victories:

Wowvi Video, Millennium Support and the We Are Wakefield mixed team secured interim round wins, showcasing their diverse expertise.

Outside In Management aced round 3, while Purple Pebble People & Mint HR combined forces to conquer Round 2.

Collaboration and Camaraderie:

Juice personnel and Travel Counsellors joined forces for an epic showdown in round 5. The spirit of collaboration was alive and well!

The Lambrini Losers taking home a magnum of the finest Italian wine were the combined efforts of Judy Parsons LinkedIn Training, Fiona of Get Ahead VA and Claire & Callum from Prosura!

The Takeaway:

The We Are Wakefield Quiz Night wasn’t just about trivia; it was about building connections, celebrating knowledge, and having a fantastic time. As we raise our glasses to the winning team, we also toast to the camaraderie that makes our community thrive.

Until the next quiz adventure—stay curious, stay connected! 🌐🤝

In an inspiring collaboration aimed at fostering a culture of equality and diversity within the Wakefield District’s business community, We Are Wakefield and Wakefield First joined hands to host a groundbreaking event. The gathering, held today at Yorkshire Sculpture Park, welcomed business owners and decision-makers from various sectors, all looking to overcome obstacles and achieve their GOLD!

At the heart of today’s event was a transformative workshop led by none other than Steve Judge, acclaimed author of “GOLD” and a renowned motivational speaker. With three accolades as the Professional Speaking Associations speaker of the Year, Steve Judge brought unparalleled expertise and insight to the table.

Steve’s journey from wheelchair to world champion serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Through his experiences, he has gleaned invaluable lessons, firmly believing that every obstacle presents an opportunity for growth and empowerment. His message resonates deeply with individuals at every level of the business sector.

The workshop, aptly titled “Overcoming Obstacles,” delved into the five winning ways to unlock the power of one’s potential and achieve personal and professional goals. Drawing from his own journey of championing equality, diversity, and inclusion, Steve provided attendees with practical tools, inspiration, and motivation to navigate their own paths toward success.

Steve’s session was not merely a theoretical discourse but a practical guide rooted in real-life experiences. Attendees left the workshop armed with actionable strategies and a newfound sense of empowerment, ready to implement positive change within their organisations.

In a world where diversity and inclusion are increasingly recognised as essential drivers of innovation and success, events like this serve as catalysts for change. By coming together to learn, share, and collaborate, the Wakefield business community reaffirmed its commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

As we reflect on the insights gained and the connections forged at today’s event, let us carry forward the spirit of empowerment and inclusivity into our workplaces and beyond. Together, we can create a brighter, more prosperous future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of background or circumstance.

On 8^th March2024, We Are Wakefield, in collaboration with the Mayor of Wakefield and Wakefield Council, orchestrated a spectacular celebration at the iconic Wakefield Town Hall to mark International Women’s Day. The Kingswood Suite, adorned with history and elegance, set the stage for an event that brought together influential women leaders and a community eager to celebrate and discuss the strides made towards gender equality.

The morning kicked off with a lineup of exceptional key speakers, each leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the audience. The Mayor of Wakefield, Cllr Josie Pritchard, and Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, graced the stage with powerful messages of empowerment and progress. Tracy Carpenter from Mint HR and Lucy Ndlovu of Progressive Talent CIC shared their personal and professional journeys, inspiring everyone present.

Guiding the morning’s proceedings with finesse and enthusiasm was the Managing Director of We Are Wakefield, Claire Sutherley DL.

After the enlightening speeches, the audience participated in a lively quiz focused on inspirational women. Laughter and excitement filled the room as participants tested their knowledge about women who have left an indelible mark on history. The event also featured a raffle and tombola, generating enthusiasm and providing an opportunity for attendees to contribute to a noble cause.

The funds raised during the event will be directed towards the Mayor’s Charity: Andy’s Man Club and Community Foundation Wakefield District‘s Women’s Fund. In a commendable show of community support, Prosper Wakefield District pledged to generously match the funds raised, amplifying the impact on these vital initiatives.

The morning concluded with a delightful lunch and networking session, allowing attendees to connect, share experiences, and forge new connections. The historic venue provided a stunning backdrop, with access to The Mayor’s Parlour and The Old Courtroom, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Wakefield.

Chris Whittam Photography skilfully captured the essence of the event, freezing in time the moments of elation, excitement, and sheer joy that permeated the venue.

The International Women’s Day event at Wakefield Town Hall was not just a celebration; it was a declaration of commitment to inspire inclusion. The theme #InspireInclusion resonated throughout the morning, leaving attendees invigorated and empowered to continue the journey towards a more inclusive and equal society. As the event came to a close, the echoes of inspirational stories and shared joy lingered, serving as a testament to the collective strength and unity of Wakefield’s women.

Fanfare Music hosted a corporate songwriting evening on 16th January at their studio in Ossett for the WAW team and We Are Wakefield members:
Diana Holden Bid Writing Service Ltd
Solupak Ltd
Wordsmiths UnLimited
Chris Whittam Photography
Blossom CIC
Prosura

Participants came with a variety of levels of musical confidence but over the course of the evening learnt chords on the piano and about the chord structure of pop songs.
After a vocal warm up, Jenna taught participants to play the chords to two pop songs on the piano and we took it in turns to play and sing. However, the main business of the evening was creating our very own We Are Wakefield song and in teams participants wrote chord progressions and lyrics for the verses, chorus and a bridge.
When it came to recording the song, those who wanted to, sang a solo line and everyone else was involved with the chorus and the rap! It was a great evening, and we can offer something similar, or something totally different, to you and your team – musical theatre, burlesque, songwriting, rock band, learning instruments, singing, drama, improvisation, even visual art – use your imagination.

Creativity is the key to productivity in any workplace and we’d love to help unleash your team’s creative superpowers.
Drop Jenna an email: [email protected] to book some creative time in the diary for your team.

“We’re delighted to award Jenna the winning tickets for all her hard work on this collaborative event!” Jenna wins tickets to see how team work makes the dream work at Castleford Tigers!

Listen to the song here: