Helen Nurse, Co-founder, Capture 1

Introduce yourself:

I’ve run my media and digital agency, Capture 1, with my husband for 25 years. Over that time, I’ve gone from filming Prince Charles at St James’ Palace in 2002, to running the UK’s biggest virtual Santa event in 2020, and now helping businesses transform the way they communicate through WhatsApp. I’ve always loved good communication – done well, it’s powerful, memorable and makes a real impact. I live in Lymm with my husband, three children and two cats, and when I’m not working you’ll find me travelling, walking outdoors, reading, at the theatre, enjoying family time… or adding to my ever-growing shoe collection!

Career highlight:

There are lots, but reaching our 25th birthday this year is something I’m especially proud of. We’ve navigated so much change over the years – from technology shifts to Covid – and the fact that we’re still thriving feels like a huge achievement.

Three words that describe your personality:

Creative, curious, and colourful.

Best thing about pro-manchester?

The people! I love the opportunities to meet new faces and reconnect with old ones. Manchester has been my home for 30 years – it’s a brilliant place to live and work, with such a vibrant business community. Pro-manchester brings that energy together, with a huge variety of events and a proactive approach to supporting members.

Priorities for 2025?

Visibility is a big focus for me – more speaking at events and conferences, more podcast appearances, and more opportunities to show businesses how they can create meaningful, effective communications. We’re also continuing to grow our WhatsApp solutions, helping organisations use it to connect better with customers, members, and audiences.

Important things in Manchester right now?

It’s brilliant to see in-person events buzzing again. After the stop-start of recent years, people really value face-to-face connection – and you can feel that in the energy of the city’s business scene. There are so many lively events happening in all sorts of venues, full of interesting people.

Favourite meeting place in Manchester?

The Tennis & Racquets Club on Blackfriars – where I co-host a Friday morning breakfast networking group. It’s such a hidden gem; right in the middle of Manchester but so many people walk past without realising it’s there. It’s a beautiful, historic building and a great place to meet after the buzz of the breakfast.

Businesses I’d like to meet:

Hotels, hospitality and consumer-facing businesses – as well as those running events or memberships. Anyone who needs to engage and communicate effectively with their customers, users or members, I’d love to connect with.