Igniting Impact at Humber Business Week – Hull’s new era of funding and leadership

Today at Humber Business Week, we witnessed something special, a powerful reminder of how nearly £1 million in charitable giving is not just funding projects, but changing lives across Hull.

From stirring performances to deeply personal testimonies, the morning was a moving celebration of the people and organisations transforming our communities from the ground up, with heart, hope, and fierce determination.

We began with pure joy; a vibrant, electric performance of Mr Blue Sky by Dance in Company. Their energy lifted the room and set the tone for what was to come, a gathering not just of ideas, but of spirit, purpose, and connection.

Celia McKeon brought meaning to the numbers as she introduced the four community funds driving this incredible impact. She spoke about more than just grants; she spoke of the social fabric of Hull, woven through trust, belonging, and the shared belief that everyone deserves to feel seen and supported.

Lloyd Dobbs of Goodwin Development Trust talked about the Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, and how it’s opening space in West Hull for real, meaningful connections to flourish; neighbours becoming allies, communities becoming stronger.

Claire Thomas from Oasis Hub Hull shared a message of unity, how funding is bringing together people from all walks of life, helping them not just survive but belong.

Franklin Onukwugha of Youth Aspire Connect reflected on their journey, from helping five children in 2017 to now supporting over 500 young people who are dreaming bigger, striving higher, and seeing what’s possible when someone believes in them.

We then heard from Rose James, CEO of HEY Children’s University, who offered a powerful insight into leadership rooted in community. She credited the HEY Confident Futures Leadership Network for helping her rise, and called on us all to nurture the next generation of collaborative, generous leaders.

The call to action was clear and compelling. Phil Benson urged the corporate sector to do more than donate; to engage, invest, and partner in the work of social good, and to see that community change is collective change.

Bringing the morning to a close, Bec Horner painted a picture of Hull as a city becoming fairer, more connected, and more resilient, because of the extraordinary efforts of community organisations. Her invitation was simple but powerful, invest in this future through the Hull Community Fund.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who performed, spoke, and stood with us at MKM Stadium. These weren’t just stories, they were real voices, real lives, and real change. We’re grateful to Hull Trains for sponsoring the event.

Hull is rising, and it’s thanks to the people who believe in something bigger than themselves. Let’s keep going.