REG Connects 2026
A day to connect business, leadership, and action for racial equity and inclusive growth
REG Connects is a unique gathering for business and community leaders, investors and ethnic minority business owners (EMBs).
This one-day event is designed to spark fresh thinking and practical action on racial equity and inclusive growth. It brings together a cross-sector network to share ideas, build partnerships, and shape a more proactive, equitable and commercially successful future for Manchester and beyond.
A Bold, Commercially Focussed Programme
Building on the theme of “inclusive growth as competitive advantage” expect a full day of keynotes, panels, live pitches, workshops and roundtables.
Stronger Community, Lasting Impact
With more time for connection and collaboration, you’ll leave REG Connects 2026 inspired and equipped with practical tools to drive equity forward in your organisation and beyond.
Action + Accountability
This year will focus on tangible outcomes and next steps—from best practice sharing to live feedback loops that shape our ongoing strategy.
Want to Get Involved?
- Sponsor the Event: Events like REG Connects can only happen with the support of our partners. If your organisation shares our commitment to racial equity and inclusion, we’d love to discuss sponsorship opportunities that align with your values and goals.
- Speak at the Event: Got a powerful story, lived experience, or bold idea to share? We’re looking for passionate, inspiring voices to join our line-up in 2026. Put yourself forward or nominate someone brilliant.
- Join the Movement: Want to help shape REG Connects 2026? Get in touch to explore how you can contribute - whether through speaking, collaborating on content, or sharing your insights.
👉 Email [email protected] to express interest, sponsor, speak, or simply to share your feedback!
About the Speakers:
Tom Stannard is Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, leading one of the UK’s largest Core Cities and a highly performing organisation. He brings more than 27 years’ local government experience and is recognised for his work in regeneration, inclusive growth and public service reform. Tom also leads Manchester’s role in the Greater Manchester economy, business and international portfolio, and oversees the city’s integrated health and social care system.
Professor Erinma Bell MBE is a Manchester peace activist recognised for her work tackling gun crime and supporting safer, more inclusive communities. She co-founded CARISMA after witnessing a fatal shooting, creating positive alternatives for young people. Erinma now works within a wider network of community leaders and volunteers across south Manchester. She was honoured with a sculpture in Manchester Town Hall, recognising her lasting contribution to the city.
Ngozi Weller is a wellbeing and productivity consultant and ICF accredited coach. She helps organisations build psychologically safe workplaces that improve resilience, engagement and productivity. After 15 years in Big Oil, Ngozi founded Aurora to normalise workplace mental health conversations and provide strategic wellbeing support. She is also co-host of the award-winning podcast The Wellbeing Rebellion.
Beatrice is the founder of Tosimba-By-Bee, a business rooted in food, culture, and storytelling. With over 20 years in HR, she has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of maternal mental health while working full-time. After experiencing postnatal depression following the birth of her second son, she developed a deep passion for raising awareness, fostering open conversations, and ensuring that no mother feels alone in her journey—whether in the workplace or the wider community. As a single mother of two, she continues to advocate for support systems that empower women and working parents.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
