Once upon a time, nestled between the rolling hills and the rugged coastline of the North East, I embarked on an adventure not just of distance, but of discovery. It's a tale of transformation, driven by the twin engines of innovation and inclusivity, set in a region famed for its industrial past and now charting a course towards a tech-infused future.
My journey through the landscapes of innovation has been as varied and vibrant as the North East itself. From the early days, tinkering in tech start-ups that felt more like tight-knit families, to spearheading community initiatives where every brainstorming session was a potluck of ideas and ideals. These experiences weren’t just steps on a career path; they were leaps into a world where innovation is the key to unlocking a society that works for everyone.
Innovation in the North East isn’t a dry, dusty concept confined to the pages of a report; it’s alive, pulsing through the streets of Newcastle, the quayside of Sunderland, and the market towns and villages that dot the landscape. It’s in the air, invigorating the region with a sense of possibility. According to the UK Innovation Survey, innovative businesses report staggering benefits, from boosted productivity to increased resilience. But the true measure of innovation, I’ve found, lies in its impact on the community.
Take, for instance, the time we introduced a smart mobility app designed to make public transport more accessible. The app was a hit, not just for its sleek interface, but for how it brought people together. Stories poured in, from the elderly couple who discovered a newfound independence, to the group of students who organised a city-wide treasure hunt using only public transport. It was clear: innovation had turned everyday travel into a shared adventure.
Or consider the healthcare initiative that used the Yohlar Framework and AI to predict patient flows in hospitals. It sounded like something out of a sci-fi novel, yet the real story was far more compelling. I remember the hospital staff’s amazement as they found themselves able to spend more time with patients, leading to smiles all round. It was a reminder that at the heart of every innovation is the potential to touch lives.
As my odyssey continues, the landscape of the North East serves as both backdrop and inspiration. Here, innovation isn’t just about creating new technologies; it’s about it underpinning the whole of our society, ensuring they add colour, texture, and warmth to the lives of all its members.
So, as we stand on the cusp of tomorrow, looking out over a horizon bright with promise, let’s pledge to keep the spirit of inclusive innovation burning bright. Let’s create a future where technology serves not just the few, but the many, crafting a North East that’s not only known for its industrial might but celebrated for its digital dynamism and inclusivity.
The North East’s story is far from over; in fact, a new chapter is just beginning. It’s a story we write together, with every new idea, every leap of faith, and every shared success. And in this story, everyone has a starring role. So, here’s to the next adventuremay it be as inclusive, innovative, and inspiring as the region we call home.
Ammar Mirza CBE is Chair & Founder of Asian Business Connexions, Chair of the NELEP Business Growth Board, Honorary Colonel of 101 Regiment RA and holds various positions across the public and private sectors.