Acumen’s Chief Executive Picks Up OBE and Prestigious Award
This week Kate Welch, Kate Welch, Chief Executive of Acumen Development Trust, has received her OBE for services to social enterprise in the North East and won the prestigious Ernst and Young Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the North region!
Kate, 50, of Chester-le-Street, County Durham, travelled to London with her family who were able to watch her receive the honour from Prince Charles at a ceremony held at Buckingham Palace. She said “It feels wonderful. The prince was very complimentary about the work we do.”
In the same week Kate was also named Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2008 for the North region at a ceremony which took place in Manchester. She will now go through to the national finals held in September.
The Ernst and Young Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world’s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. Operating in 50 countries, EOY encourages entrepreneurial activity among those with potential, and recognises the contribution of people who inspire others with their vision, leadership and achievement.
Kate said: “I'm absolutely delighted to receive the awards. They reflect all of the passion and commitment of the staff and volunteers of Acumen who make a real difference in the communities of the North East.”