EEUK President’s Address 2023

Written by Dave Bolton

Winter leaves and berries framing a rectangle shape

A photo of Dave Bolton. He is wearing a suit and smiling at the camera.For all our EEUK members, collaborators and friends.

As we come towards the end of yet another year, I extend warm and heartfelt greetings to each and every member and friend of EEUK. This festive season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration, and I am really pleased to have the opportunity of writing this short message.

This year has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments that have tested our resilience as individuals and as a collective community. Yet, through it all, the strength of the EEUK ‘family’ has remained, proving that together, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way.

The festive season provides us with a big opportunity to express our appreciation for the ties that bind us—ties forged through shared goals, common values, and the collective dedication to the mission of EEUK. It is a time to acknowledge the hard work, passion, and commitment that our Board of Directors, Operations team and most importantly what each and every member brings to our organisation, contributing to its success and growth.

As we celebrate this special time of the year, let us also remember those who may be facing challenges or difficulties. EEUK stands as an advocate of support and compassion, and it is through our actions that we can make a meaningful impact in the work of others. This festive season, I encourage each member to consider how we can extend a helping hand to those in need and foster a spirit of generosity within our community in the spirit of entrepreneurship and collegiality.

Looking ahead to the coming year, personally, I am really excited about the opportunities that lie before us. IEEC Belfast in September 2024 will be the first time we have taken the conference outside of mainland UK and will open up the support EEUK can provide to a wider audience. We are also looking forward to forging links in other parts of the world in conjunction with our partner organisations. Together, as part of a wider community, I am positive we will continue to strive for excellence, innovation, and positive change. The collaborative efforts of our diverse membership will undoubtedly propel EEUK to new heights, creating a lasting legacy for the years ahead.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the privilege of serving as your President. It is an honour that I hold with great humility and pride. On behalf of all the EEUK Board and wider team I want to express my wishes for a happy and peaceful Christmas period, and I also hope that the New Year brings prosperity, fulfillment, and continued success to each and every member of our EEUK.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Warm regards,

David Bolton

President Enterprise Educators UK

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash