WHAT MAKES A SMART CITY?
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Industry leaders
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Young People who registered for the chance to attend the event
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Young People selected to attend representing Birmingham, London, Leeds and more
What Makes A Smart City?
On Friday 22nd November 2019, we hosted our ‘Talk About What Makes A Smart City’ event at EY‘s Birmingham office. The event was an opportunity to explore the future of the world’s cities and the biggest issues facing them today.
The event was formally introduced by Professor Paul Brown (Director at EY, LEP Board Member and Chair of BCU Business School). Paul spoke about the importance of having a discussion around smart cities and the likelihood of change in the next few years – a change that is certainly uncertain but equally exciting.
After commencing the event, attendees were then ushered to one of four stations (Cafe Conversations) led by different Industry Leaders where they talked about the different aspects that shape a smart city. Industry Leaders on the day included Dr Lauren Traczykowski, Teaching Fellow at Aston University and Birmingham Food Council Director.
She explored ‘Modelling a Smart (& Ethical!) City’. We were also joined by Hyve Co-Founders Amon Kiplagat and Yiannis Maos (Founder of Birmingham Tech Week). Their theme was ‘How community and collaboration can contribute to a better society.’ Finally we had Dewi Pritchard-Jones, Deputy Director Of Operations Central Region at The Prince’s Trust. His chosen topic was Digital Innovation and Youth Engagement.
The event was a success with both industry leaders and young people left inspired and more knowledgeable. We also ensured that attendees got the opportunity to learn a bit more about EY and it’s graduate opportunities through a short talk, hints and tips followed by a Q&A all from Paul Sobers (EY Graduate Recruitment).
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