The event showcased the PoWEr of bringing diverse stakeholders together - large organisations, SMEs, CICs, and independents - coming together to share insights and drive meaningful change. Each contributing unique perspectives and solutions to regional challenges. Attendees included:

• Large Organiaations: Bank of America, Newcastle Building Society, NatWest, Accenture, Learning Curve Group
• SMEs: Leighton, Aspire Technology Solutions, Green Eyes Consulting, Truenorth Marketing Limited, Venture Stream
• CICs/Charities: Smart Works Newcastle, Feeding Families, Active Families NE CIC, Connected by Change, Aspiring Dreams CIC

Driving Social Impact at The PoWEr Exchange  

The PoWEr Exchange Newcastle centred on tangible solutions to key challenges in the North East, focusing on:

• Workforce Development – skill gaps and developing regional talent.
• Entrepreneurship/Social Enterprise – economic growth through business innovation.
• Equity & Inclusion – Creating diverse, inclusive, and fair workplace cultures.

Kim McGuinness highlighted the need for collaboration across public, private, and third-sector organisations to drive meaningful change. Her vision prioritised strategic investment in education, housing, and community programmes, ensuring opportunity for all.

The event reinforced the power of collective action, uniting leaders to share insights, build partnerships, and develop innovative solutions to regional challenges.

Q&A with Kim McGuinness

A dedicated Q&A session provided attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with Kim McGuinness, ask insightful questions, and gain a deeper understanding of her vision and strategies for addressing challenges in the North East.

Outcomes and Next Steps

With 85 attendees, the PoWEr Exchange Newcastle marked a significant step in expanding the series, creating stronger networks, and generating impactful solutions tailored to the unique needs of the North East.

As the series progresses, The PoWEr Exchange will continue to champion collaboration, amplify diverse voices, and drive meaningful change, ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for all.

Quotes:

"Capitalism thrives when it is complemented by efforts to drive social progress. The PoWEr Exchange in Newcastle has underscored the vital role of We Are PoWEr in bridging the divide between grassroots initiatives and the corporate world. While many are championing change at a grassroots level, there is a growing need to engage those with greater resources and influence. We Are PoWEr’s work in driving this collaboration is invaluable—it’s truly inspiring to see events like today unfold, highlighting the need for more initiatives of this kind across our region." - Herb Kim, Founder and CEO Thinking Digital

"I'm thrilled to join the PoWEr Exchange, celebrating the achievements of women and allies driving change across our region and the North. We Are PoWEr's mission for equality and amplifying trailblazing voices resonates deeply with me. I wouldn’t be here without someone’s encouragement, and together we must pay it forward to inspire the next generation of women leaders, breaking barriers and creating a brighter, more inclusive future." - Kim McGuinness, Mayor of North East 

Future Expansion: continue advancing regional collaboration, amplifying voices driving social value, and generating tangible results for communities across the North.