We build better places through connection, knowledge and leadership
As a civil engineer, Grace Pagani of Arup knew the “Rain Guarden” project could be built. However, her Leaders Plus colleagues in housing, local government and communications brought different perspectives that turned the idea into fundable reality, winning one of six inaugural Future of GM Alumni Awards. Find out more…
Diverse Voices brought together place professionals from across Greater Manchester for an interactive presentation coaching session focused on confidence, communication and storytelling. Arup kindly hosted participants for the workshop, followed by an enlightening mix of Speaker showcase presentations; topics include The aquarium theory of Place, wildfire risk awareness, clothing poverty and switching off from work …
This discussion explored what inclusive leadership looks like in practice, drawing on lived experience from diverse voices. Panel members shared honest reflections on navigating under-representation and workplace challenges, revealing a shared commitment to authenticity, resilience and collective progress that benefits individuals, organisations and the wider city-region.
Exploring community engagement through design and collaboration Our Diverse Voices Network came together for an interactive Engagement Essentials workshop led by Sam Hayes, Future of Greater Manchester Alumni and Assistant Director at PLACED. The session offered participants a hands-on, gamified exploration of community engagement in neighbourhood development. Placed, a social enterprise operating across Liverpool and …
Storytelling is not a skill exclusive to poets, authors, and musicians – it is a powerful communication tool that the most engaging leaders use to connect with their stakeholders, to lead with humanity, and to be widely understood. Led by facilitator Chris Seymour, this Diverse Voices session encouraged us to identify effective storytelling techniques and …
Interviewing Essentials was a candid and lively session, with guidance from sector leaders on how to ace your next interview. Led by Future of GM’s Lisa Taylor, we focused on practical tips and engaging discussions to help participants navigate interviews successfully. Participants also shared real-life examples of when things have gone well (or not so …
Our November Diverse Voices Chairing Essentials event, hosted by sponsor Muse Places, was another lively learning and networking session. Combining a quiz, interactive scenarios, expert and peer tips plus networking time, the event focused on navigating tough chairing situations, facilitating inclusive discussion, and refining presentation skills.
Future of GM’s first Diverse Voices-CityMakers combo merged the skills-, profile- and connection-building of our diversity network with the next-gen forum created by Future of London and Hatch. We tackled the role of social value and placeshaping in a roundtable and a panel/Q&A, with both formats offering participants pro tips along the way. Find out more…