04/12/2024
Successful launch for East Anglian learning & development professional network
L-R: Nadine Tapp, Matthew Casanova, Margaret Burnside and Andy Lancaster pose with a banner at the launch of new East Anglian learning & development network Elevate East at its recent launch event
The founders of a new professional network have laid out an ambitious plan to develop the learning and development (L&D) landscape in Norfolk and Suffolk.
The network, called Elevate East, was launched at a sold-out event at the Norfolk Showground in late November.
Around 30 L&D professionals attended the event, with keynote speaker Andy Lancaster leading discussions and offering key insights taken from his new book Organizational Learning Communities.
The brainchild of three local professionals - Nadine Tapp, Head of Group Academy at Flagship Group, Margaret Burnside, director at Cake People Development, and Michael Casanova, director and consultant at Wilby Jones Consulting – the aim of Elevate East is to lift the profile of L&D in the east of England and raise the standards in the field.
The founders said they were delighted with the success of the launch and looked forward to developing Elevate East.
Ms Tapp said: “The energy in the room was fantastic and truly inspirational. We identified a real shared cause to be the basis of our new community, and with the insights shared by Andy Lancaster, we feel that we truly could elevate the East.”
Attendees deep in discussion at the launch event for new East Anglian learning & development network Elevate East
Mr Casanova said: “This launch event was a powerful reminder of the passion and purpose within our profession. The turnout and shared insights confirmed that this community has long been needed and together, we’re building something awesome.”
Ms Burnside said: “We thought there might be an appetite for an L&D network but to see the energy and enthusiasm in that room today, we are in no doubt about the huge potential of this community.”
Further in-person events are planned for the new year. Anyone interested can join the Elevate East LinkedIn group to keep informed about the latest developments, share idea, make connections and seek support.
Elevate East co-founder Margaret Burnside leads a discussion at the launch of new East Anglian learning & development network Elevate East