I was born on the banks of the Tyne, and if you ask me where I'm from, I'll proudly say I'm a Geordie. But my journey hasn't always felt straightforward, and growing up as an Asian in Newcastle, I quickly realised the lack of equal opportunities.
So, as soon as I could, I ran away to London getting a job at the British Council. Before becoming home sick and returning.
For 10 years after, I immersed myself in the corporate world, leading innovation within the technology sector. I loved the work, the pressure, and the opportunities it brought, but I was also constantly on the move, working away from the North East. During that time, I developed a resilience that came from facing every challenge head-on. But it wasn’t just about surviving the corporate grindit was about building something meaningful. I realised that the experiences I was gaining, both the successes and the hard knocks, were preparing me for something else.
Eventually, the pull of home grew too strong, and I returned to the North East with a new mission: to give back. For 20+ years now, I’ve devoted myself to making the North East a better place socially and economically. I’ve seen the challenges that continue to persistinequality, discrimination, and a lack of opportunity for manyand I’ve worked with others tirelessly to address them. Whether it’s through exploring international trade, supporting enterprise, or volunteering in my local community, I’ve committed myself to helping this region realise its full potential.
Volunteering has been at the heart of everything I do. For decades, I’ve served as a governor and chair of a primary school, sat on the boards of charities like Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums, and Marie Curie, and supported countless businesses. I’ve chaired the North East LEP Business Growth Board and the Institute of Directors North East, always striving to support growth and innovation in our region. In 2008, I set up a not-for-profit social enterprise, followed by an enterprise charity in 2013. In 2017, I launched the Cadet Apprenticeship Pathway, becoming a proud advocate for the armed forces. My role as honorary colonel of 101 Regiment is a particular source of pride, as I’ve helped businesses sign the Armed Forces Covenant and supported veterans in finding meaningful employment.
But despite all this work and commitment to my region, there’s an unfortunate truth I continue to face. I’ve devoted decades of my life to the North East, but I’m still met with suspicion. My motives are questioned, and prejudice, though often subtle, still rears its head. Even though I was born here, and my roots run deep, there are moments when I’m reminded that in the eyes of some, I will always be seen as an alien.
It’s tough, no doubt. But every challenge, every bit of adversity, has made me more resilient. The school of hard knocks has taught me perseverance, even if it’s left me with a sensitivity to the prejudice that still exists. But I don’t see that sensitivity as a weaknessit’s what keeps me compassionate, driven, and focused on the work that needs to be done.
The recent riots and the trolling that followed reminded me of the uphill battles we still face. But they also reminded me why I continue to fight for this region. I love the North East. It’s where I’m from, and it’s where I choose to invest my time and energy, despite the barriers. I remain committed to breaking down those barriers, not just for myself, but for the generations to come.
In the end, my resilience comes from my belief in the power of community, inclusivity, and growth. Yes, there are setbacks, and yes, prejudice still exists. But I’m here to stay, and I’ll continue to stand up for what I believe in. This is my home, and I’m determined to keep building a better future for everyone in itone filled with pride, purpose, and positivity with less of the prejudice.
Ammar Mirza CBE is Chair & Founder of Asian Business Connexions, Executive Chair of the AmmarM Group, Honorary Colonel of 101 Regiment RA and holds various positions across the public and private sectors with a deep interest in Inclusion, Innovation and Internationalisation.