President's column: It's been an eventful two years

The Government's roadmap and Budget were covered in my last few columns, so now it 's back to reflecting on my two years as president of Solihull Chamber, writes Solihull Chamber president Robert Elliot.

One of the attractions to membership of any Chamber are the events. The chance to meet people, make connections and develop relationships. There has certainly been a difference in the last two years.

Year one included some events that highlighted the importance of mental health wellbeing, and diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

I feel that we have supported the great steps for positive change that have been seen in these areas, but we must understand there is still a need for continuous focus.

Solihull Hour became an event in its own right. Weekly contact and monthly live sessions. ProSolihull attracted 100 people regularly.

Two of my highlights in year one were the expo and the awards.

Held at excellent venues, the Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport and the Forest of Arden, these two events provided in excess of 700 people the chance to widen their networks, win new business, and create lasting relationships. The Expo was so successful it was trending on Twitter!

The awards were described by one attendee as a “true celebration ” on all things Solihull.

Connecting, Engaging, and helping businesses grow.

So, then we held our 2020 AGM, a year ago this week.

The rest quite literally is history! History that will be studied by our grandchildren and their children in the same way we learnt about the World Wars and indeed the Spanish flu.

Time to adopt new procedures and adapt to changing circumstances. Time to embrace technology!

Chamber events went online.

Everyone started honing their Zoom skills, creating backgrounds, and trying to avoid those three words, “You 're on mute ”!

Events that had flourished in year one were in danger of losing their impact but this is the Chamber of Commerce and we were not going to allow that to happen. Attendance has remained high.

In fact, its possible people have made more connections in a virtual capacity than if they had been working the room in person.

One event that the Covid curtain could not close on was the 2020 awards. Recognition is so important, particularly when people have been working in difficult circumstances and under pressure.

The event was a triumph. Live broadcast, roving reporters, and a great celebration. One of my career highlights, let alone presidential.

None of these events would have happened if it was not for some amazing people. The Greater Birmingham Chamber's events team are extraordinary.

Sam and Lillian at the Chamber are incredible. The sponsors and venues have been so supportive.

The real stars?

You, the people who have attended.