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The West of England Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing Forum’s Annual Gala Dinner unfolded on November 30th, 2023, at the grand Sansovino Hall within the Bristol Harbour Hotel. Drawing in approximately 200 members from the southwest Aerospace and Defence industry, the evening proved to be a delightful affair, offering a vibrant platform for networking and celebration.
WEAF’s CEO, Colin Turner, set the stage for the evening with a comprehensive update, outlining the strategic direction for 2024 and emphasizing the significance of ‘more with less’ as a key sector strategy.
Keynote speaker Gemma Alcock, the founder and CEO of SkyBound Rescuer, held the audience captive with her inspiring career journey. From establishing her first business at the tender age of nine to navigating the challenges of running a start-up while studying, Gemma shared her experiences and the dangers of burnout. Her stint as a lifeguard in 2016 inspired the creation of SkyBound Rescuer, a venture dedicated to revolutionizing public safety and Emergency Services globally through the innovative use of drone technology.
This year, WEAF chose to support Flying Scholarships for Disabled People. The donation of a Lego Concorde plane by WEAF contributed to a total fundraising amount of £775. Helen Webb provided insights into the charity, while flying scholars Abi and Alex shared their first-hand experiences with FSDP.
The lively atmosphere extended well into the early hours of the morning, with delegates immersed in conversations, forging new connections, and fostering a sense of community.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to Morson Projects for sponsoring the event, along with appreciation for our speakers and attendees. We eagerly look forward to welcoming many of you at our Annual Expo in March!
