North East Roots Homecoming was a celebration of our region’s global reach and provided opportunities for anyone with a passion for the region to reconnect and give back.

Our first North East Roots Homecoming was the first major regional celebration of the North East’s expat communities, its global influence and the spirit of generosity which is shared by those with a passion for the area. Over a series of events in the region Community Foundation North East and its partners encouraged people with North East roots to reconnect and discover opportunities to make a difference in the region. Homecoming also celebrated expats and North East leaders who continue to champion the region no matter where they travel or live.

Homecoming was
part of a broader North East Roots initiative which aims to establish the largest and most active diaspora/expat network in the UK. The North East Roots Fund generates support for community organisations that are tackling poverty by building opportunity for our young people and families.

Friday 5th December

A Northumberland Homecoming,  The Energy Central Learning Campus, Blyth.

To launch Homecoming, this event highlighted the purpose of the North East Roots Network, which is to back organisations that help young people on their path to opportunity and success.

This event featured Dr Dan Jackson as our keynote speaker.

 

Sunday 7th December

Afternoon: Spotlight on Sunderland: A Homecoming, Sheepfolds Stables, Sunderland

This event highlighted the many inspiring developments in the city of Sunderland, including the Riverside development, the Keel Bridge, Sheepfolds Stables, Sunderland Culture House and more.

We also heard from donor and expat Steve Wooler, Councillor Michael Mordey and Lord Lieutenant Lucy Winskell.

Sunday 7th December

Evening: Music’s Coming Home, The Fire Station, Sunderland

We partnered with Sunderland Music City for their charity concert. We matched £50,000 in funding to support five organisations tackling child poverty in Sunderland. 

Monday 8th December

The Homecoming Awards and Showcase, the Boiler Shop, Newcastle.

We celebrated North East and its global community, featuring some of the region’s most inspiring figures from the worlds of showbusiness, music, literature, and business. Special awards were be presented by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and we had performances from established and rising North East stars.

Who we are

North East Roots Homecoming is supported by a growing list of regional leaders:

Honorary Chairs

Kim McGuinness
North East Mayor

Lucy Winskell OBE
Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear

Dr Caroline Pryer
Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland

Chairs and Members of Steering Group

John Hollingsworth
Community Foundation

Alison Gwynn
North East Screen

Adam Lopardo
Community Foundation

Paul Callaghan
The Leighton Group

Louise Bradford
Creo Comms

Huw Lewis
North East Combined Authority

Keith Merrin
North East Museums

Sponsored by




Community Foundation North East
Philanthropy House
Woodbine Road
Gosforth
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE3 1DD

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