Birmingham Launch

On Monday 24th April Be Inclusive Hospitality Birmingham launched at the Grand Hotel Birmingham. The launch was marked with an event including a panel discussion, networking and canapés.

.The evening kicked off with a personal and business introduction by our founder Lorraine Copes.

The evening kicked off with a personal and business introduction by our founder Lorraine Copes. She then chaired a panel discussion, which included honest accounts of the career paths and experiences of four hospitality leaders.

The panel included Paramjit Nagra, co-founder of Crazy Gin Co, Vanessa Kelly, Managing Director of 2 Much Passion CIC, Adam Bateman, Culinary Director at the Grand Hotel and Sonal Clare, Wine Director at Wilderness Restaurant.

Topics explored included self-belief, being underestimated, and the necessity to take a leap of faith in order to achieve career goals.

The discussion was followed by a poetry recital from Birmingham Poet Laureate, Casey Bailey. The poem entitled ‘Dear Brum’ was a special ode to the city and its multi-culturalism.

Networking then took place, with canapés provided by Adam’s and his team. The drinks on the night were sponsored by Crazy Gin, Amandla, Purity Brewery and Belu.

In attendance at the event were 70 hospitality employees, founders, suppliers, associations, education providers and students.

The event attracted local press with both Global Radio and Local TV in attendance on the night. Both interviewed Lorraine prior to the event beginning, and the Local TV interview can be watched here. Positively the week prior to the event BBC Radio WM, also interviewed Lorraine about the launch.

The launch marks the first step towards expanding the Be Inclusive Hospitality community nationally. This event will be followed by programmes and events in Birmingham.

A huge thanks to the Grand Hotel team, the panellists, and the sponsors for helping to create a magical launch.

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