Brunel Engine Shed. 11.00am to 2.00pm. Friday 10th July 2026.
Wycombe For Fairtrade was invited to the official launch of the new College of Leadership and Innovation at Buckinghamshire New University in the newly opened Brunel Engine Shed. After the welcome by Dr. Leah Fox, Dean of the College for Leadership & Innovation, and Dr. Muhammad Akhtar, Dean of Research and Knowledge Exchange, there was a 50-minute presentation and discussion by a panel of 4 local experts on what constituted innovation. Panellists agreed that the central links concerning innovation were networking and connectivity.
Mike King was one of the 4 expert panellists giving outlines and examples of successful collaborations, innovations, and partnerships locally and internationally. It was excellent opportunity to liaise with new Buckinghamshire New University Business Management lecturers inputting information about Fairtrade and Sustainability and Innovation. Valuable . links were also made with three international students from Nepal (tea), Sri Lanka (tea), and Costa Rica (coffee).
Mike King, Chairman of Wycombe For Fairtrade, was one of the panellists. Wycombe For Fairtrade also had a well-located information stall, with flyers, posters, a selection of Fairtrade products including Fairtrade chocolate samples, plus the High Wycombe – Grecia Fair Trade Towns Partnership Banner. The information table was manned by Mike King who answered questions from academic staff and students.
After Councillor Lesley Clare cut the ribbon to formerly open the Brunel Engine Shed to future exhibitions, conferences, and presentations, there was an excellent buffet to enjoy as well as the opportunity to talk with Asian small business owners and local educationalist keen on expanding entrepreneurship in and around High Wycombe.