Leeds Media Centre stands as a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in the heart of the city.
In a significant gesture of support, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, became the first person to sign the Unity Enterprise (UE) 25th anniversary guest book. This event took place during her visit to the Leeds Media Centre, marking a milestone year for the organization known for its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship in Leeds’ marginalized communities. Unity Enterprise, a not-for-profit subsidiary of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, has been instrumental in managing affordable housing and supporting business development in Leeds and Kirklees since its inception in 2000.
The anniversary celebrations are set to include a series of enterprise-themed events such as business breakfasts, roundtables, and workshops, aimed at boosting local entrepreneurship and community engagement. During her visit, Councillor Marshall Katung toured the newly redeveloped Leeds Media Centre, which has undergone a £1.8 million upgrade in collaboration with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund. The redevelopment has added 12 new business units, a bespoke enterprise hub, and a state-of-the-art podcast studio to the facility.
The centre’s strategic location and its comprehensive facilities make it an attractive spot for burgeoning businesses and established companies alike. The newly added business units provide affordable, high-quality spaces for startups and small businesses, while the enterprise hub offers resources and support for business development and innovation.
Moreover, the inclusion of a podcast studio opens up new avenues for creative and digital enterprises, providing them with the tools to produce high-quality content right in the heart of Leeds. This addition not only enhances the centre’s offerings but also taps into the growing trend of podcasting as a powerful medium for storytelling and marketing.
Leeds Media Centre is one of three business centres managed by Unity Enterprise, collectively offering 142 business units. These centres play a pivotal role in the local economy, housing over 80 diverse businesses that employ more than 1200 people across Leeds and Kirklees. The impact of these centres extends beyond mere numbers; they are vital in promoting economic diversity and providing employment opportunities in the region.
The ongoing success of Leeds Media Centre is a testament to the city’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. As it continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its community, Leeds Media Centre remains at the forefront of Leeds’ economic development, proving itself as an indispensable asset to the city’s vibrant business landscape.
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung said:
“It was a delight to see all that’s been done at the centre and meet business tenants, board members and staff. Unity Homes and Enterprise does fantastic work to help new enterprises become sustainable and support aspiring entrepreneurs in gaining the skills they need to run their own business.
“Sharon is rightly recognised as one of the country’s most inspirational advocates of entrepreneurship in deprived communities. Under her leadership, I have no doubt that UE’s 25th anniversary year will be a resounding success.”
Unity Homes and Enterprise Chair Sharon Jandu OBE said:
“Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung is the first African to be elected to Leeds City Council and the first African Lord Mayor of Leeds. There is no one more appropriate to be the first person to sign the guest book which will serve as a permanent record of the many exciting people whose involvement will make our 25th anniversary year so memorable.
“I am immensely proud of the work Unity Homes and Enterprise does across our three centres to promote enterprise, share expertise and improve life experiences. In collaboration with public and private sector partners, I believe we can reach even greater heights.”
Adrian Green, Unity Homes and Enterprise manager said:
“Councillor Marshall Katung is an iconic figure and, as the first citizen of Leeds, it is wonderful to see her name as the first entry in our guest book. Leeds City Council, which owns Leeds Media Centre, has been incredibly supportive of our initiatives over many years.
“We look forward to continue working closely with elected members and officers to develop business skills, create jobs and expand enterprise opportunities in the city.”
Councillor Marshall Katung’s participation and her signature in the anniversary guest book symbolize the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that empower local businesses and foster economic growth in underrepresented areas. This gesture also highlights the significant impact that Unity Enterprise has had over the past 25 years in nurturing a thriving business ecosystem in Leeds.
