On Tuesday 21st March 2023, the beautiful St Comgall’s Conference Centre in Belfast played host to “On Purpose: Inspiring & Showcasing Social Business” – an energising event that brought together social entrepreneurs, changemakers, and purpose-led organisations from across the City.
Delivered by SSEI with the generous support of event partners, the event was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the social business sector. Attendees filled the room with enthusiasm and curiosity, united by a shared desire to explore the power of business as a force for good.
A Line-Up of Impactful Leaders
The morning featured an inspiring keynote from Michael Kelly, the award-winning founder and CEO of GIY (Grow It Yourself). Michael’s story, from a chance encounter with a supermarket garlic bulb, to creating an international movement rooted in food empathy and sustainability, struck a powerful chord with the audience. His insights into leading a purpose-driven enterprise, combined with reflections on his media work and authorship, sparked meaningful discussion.
Attendees also heard from local social business leaders:
Chara Clarke, Founder and CEO of GLOW (Giving Life Opportunities to Women), shared her personal journey of empowering women and girls through confidence-building programmes and leadership development.
Jacqui Pope, Head of Service at GLL (Better), brought a dynamic perspective from the world of sport and wellbeing. An award-winning social enterprise leader and international athlete, Jacqui highlighted the scale and reach of GLL’s work and the transformative potential of social businesses in public service delivery.
A Morning of Connection and Purpose
Beyond the presentations, On Purpose was an invaluable networking opportunity. Attendees connected with peers, explored collaborative ideas, and left feeling energised by the stories of impact, resilience, and innovation shared on stage.
As one delegate commented, “It’s events like this that remind us why we do what we do – and why purpose must be at the heart of the business conversation.”