Bristol24/7 Better Business meeting celebrates impactful social causes

Bristol24/7 Better Business got off to a strong start in the new year on the back of an impactful year which brought together communities and stakeholders in creating a better Bristol for everyone.

The first Better Business meeting for 2025 was held at Wake The Tiger with the attendance of Better Business members and wellwishers.

Wake The Tiger, the UK’s largest immersive art experience venue, provided the ideal setting for a morning of insightful discussions and networking. Lucy Jarjoura, sales & marketing director at Wake The Tiger, kicked off the event with an introduction to the world’s first Amazement® Park, where guests embark on a self-guided voyage of discovery through hyper-reality.

The morning’s proceedings were led by Ruth Morris, Network Manager of Better Business, who began by welcoming the newest members to the network: Unitary Engineering Services Ltd. (UES), Lucknam Park, Good Energy, CJ Hole, and DeskLodge.

Bristol24/7 Climate Editor Ursula Billington on the grassroots environmental efforts in Bristol

In her address, Ruth emphasised the vital role Better Business plays in funding impactful social and environmental initiatives, such as the Bristol24/7 Community Reporter program, while also hosting events that unite businesses with the shared goal of making the city a better place.

During the meeting, this year’s charity partner for Better Business, Nilaari Agency, was lauded for its essential work in mental health, providing vital support and services to individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds who face challenges related to mental health, substance misuse, and other related issues.

Josh Eggleton of The Pony addressing the audience on the second iteration of the Anti Banquet

Bristol24/7 has the unique distinction of being the only publication in the South West with a dedicated Climate Editor. This role, supported through the Better Business initiative, stands as a testament to Bristol24/7’s response to the climate emergency.

Speaking at the event, Ursula Billington, Climate Editor at Bristol24/7, shared her journey—from collaborating with major environmental organisations to addressing the mental health toll of constant exposure to environmental destruction and the overwhelming climate narrative. She discussed the impact of these issues and called for a shift toward more uplifting and positive climate stories.

Better Business meetings have been a great platform for exchange of ideas among business leaders of the city

Highlighting grassroots environmental efforts in Bristol, Ursula emphasised the importance of showcasing individuals making a tangible difference, whether through initiatives like community gardens or local protests. Her goal, she explained, is to inspire a ripple effect of positive environmental action and encourage others to get involved.

She also reiterated the need to make climate-related technical information more accessible and engaging for a broader audience, ensuring that the conversation around climate change remains both informative and empowering.

Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition in 2024, the pioneering force behind the Anti Banquet initiative, celebrated chef Josh Eggleton (Better Business member – The Pony Chew Valley), addressed the audience and highlighted the positive impact it had on a range of charities, which redefined the traditional banquet.

Wake The Tiger was the ideal setting for the first Better Business meeting for 2025

The Anti Banquet reimagines the typical banquet by inviting business leaders and CEOs to step into the kitchen, collaborating with renowned chefs to prepare meals for guests. This unique approach fosters community engagement and emphasises the importance of collective action in tackling food poverty.

The first Anti Banquet raised an impressive £117,000 for 21 local food charities through the Bristol Local Food Fund. These funds supported vital community food projects, including Black Mothers Matter, Travelling Kitchen, and Project Mama, which focus on food equity, cooking education, and support for low-income families.

Building on this success, the next Anti Banquet is scheduled for March 2025 at Ashton Gate Stadium. Josh encouraged business leaders to get involved in this important initiative.

Also addressing the audience was Zoé Hewlett from Stylemongers of Bristol, who opened her design studio and shop following a successful crowdfunding campaign. She shared her vision of bringing all aspects of design under one roof. Zoé shared her experience in organising interior design workshops which are both engaging and uplifting.

Networking session in the breakout area

Tom Trinder, representing ViFi, discussed the benefits of cloud-based accounting platforms for SMEs, particularly during lean economic times when maintaining an in-house accounting team can be a luxury.

Finally, James MacLucas from Grain Barge provided a brief introduction to the eclectic food and drink venue and its offerings for the coming months.

Delicious canapés prepared and served by Kate’s Kitchen

The meeting concluded with a networking session in the breakout area, fuelled by delicious canapés prepared and served by Kate’s Kitchen.

All photos: Hannah Tyson

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