But First, Humber: A Celebration of People, Place, and Progress Launches Humber Business Week 2025
The Humber region took centre stage yesterday morning as But First, Humber – an energetic, story-led celebration of place – officially launched Humber Business Week 2025 at the MKM Stadium in Hull.
Delivered by Future Humber, the event offered more than a traditional breakfast. It was a show of confidence in a region that doesn’t wait to be defined by others, it very much defines itself. Through stories, firsts, and lived experiences, the event brought to life what makes the Humber not just a location, but a powerful identity.
Hosted by Hull’s own Amy Thompson, the event shone a spotlight on the people and moments that have helped shape Humber. From radical reformers and pioneering inventors to inclusive leaders and net zero innovators. Attendees were reminded that this region’s future isn’t being left to chance, it’s being built on purpose.
A Region That Leads from the Front
The morning opened with a high-impact short film followed by a keynote address from Mayor Luke Campbell, Olympic gold medallist and the first-ever directly elected Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire. Campbell’s story of grit, community, and stepping into leadership set the tone for a programme grounded in pride of place.
“This region gave me everything,” he said. “Now, I’m here to give back.”
Telling Our Story, Together
The programme featured a powerful series of talks from inspiration individuals representing the diversity and depth of the region.
Fred Owen, CEO of RSPCA Hull & East Riding, connected the Humber’s legacy of reform to the present day by reflecting on William Wilberforce, Hull’s most famous humanitarian and a global first in grassroots activism. Wilberforce helped abolish slavery and also co-founded what became the world’s first animal welfare charity, now known as the RSPCA. Fred shared how this global legacy of compassion lives on through science-led animal care and community outreach rooted in the city.
Azaria Murray, granddaughter of Yvonne Blenkinsop, brought to life the legacy of the Headscarf Revolutionaries, a group of Hull women who, in 1968, led one of the most successful civil safety campaigns in British history. Their fearless protest changed maritime law and saved countless lives. Azaria’s personal perspective reminded the audience that transformative change often starts at the grassroots, driven by everyday people standing up for what is right.
Sophie Bartup, founder of Barton Inclusive Football Club, shared how sport can become a vehicle for inclusion, wellbeing, and social change when rooted in community values. What began as a local initiative is now recognised nationally for its impact, and it’s powered by people like Skye, a dedicated young volunteer whose leadership on and off the pitch is shaping a culture of belonging. Together, they’re proving that true progress starts when everyone gets to play.
Ruth Lyttle, from HMP Humber, offered insight into the region’s role in shaping the future of justice through sustainable transformation. She spoke about HMP Millsike in East Yorkshire, the UK’s first all-electric and net zero prison, which opened in March 2025. Humber’s leadership in sustainable infrastructure is redefining how we build and how we rehabilitate, offering purpose, training, and dignity to those rebuilding their lives.
Stephen Logan, Principal of Healing Academy, discussed how education is creating future leaders who understand the value of place. Healing Academy became the first school in the UK to be recognised as a Pioneer School by the High Performance Foundation. The school has embedded principles such as purpose, belonging, and personal responsibility into every part of school life. Stephen shared how the academy is not only raising aspirations but also actively shaping confident, values-led young people who are ready to lead Humber’s future. In a region where students are already helping build trains, contributing to green energy, and leading change in their communities, Healing Academy’s model proves that education is no longer preparation for the future. It is the future.
Each speaker demonstrated how place isn’t just something we live in – it’s something we shape, protect, and grow.
Humber as a Platform for Progress
The heart of the event was the fast-paced quiz, Do You Know Your Humber?, where delegates tested their knowledge of the region’s many world and UK firsts. From the invention of the marine chronometer to the UK’s first AI team member, from women-led maritime campaigns to all-electric prisons.
The challenge was a reminder that Humber has always been a place where progress happens first. A place of innovation, a place of action, and most of all, a place of people with purpose.
The winner received a locally sourced ‘Humber hamper’, a nod to the richness of the region’s produce, talent, and identity.
This Is Just the Beginning
The event also marked the launch of the But First, Humber digital asset pack, a new tool available through the Humber Place Brand hub. Designed to help businesses and organisations bring the region’s identity to life, the pack includes visuals, stories, facts, and more – empowering people to communicate consistently, confidently, and collectively about what makes Humber so unique.
Inspired by yesterday’s event?
Now’s your chance to help shape Humber’s story. Become a Place Brand Ambassador and join the movement that’s championing our region’s identity, progress, and potential.
