Leeds’ Lord Mayor, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, made history as the first individual to sign the guest book for Unity Enterprise’s (UE) 25th anniversary. Her visit to the Leeds Media Centre highlighted her personal support for the organization’s efforts to boost entrepreneurship in the city’s underserved communities.
Founded in 2000, UE is a not-for-profit subsidiary of Unity Homes and Enterprise, a BME housing association managing affordable homes in Leeds and Kirklees. As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, UE is hosting a series of enterprise-focused events including business breakfasts, workshops, and roundtable discussions to further its mission of empowering local entrepreneurs.
Councillor Marshall Katung was welcomed by UE chair Sharon Jandu OBE, who invited her to tour the newly renovated Leeds Media Centre. The £1.8 million redevelopment, in collaboration with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund, has added 12 new business units, a bespoke enterprise hub, and a podcast studio. This is one of three business centres operated by UE, collectively housing 142 affordable business units and supporting over 80 diverse businesses that employ more than 1,200 people.
During the visit, Councillor Marshall Katung expressed her admiration for the center’s progress and UE’s impact on the local business ecosystem.
“It was a delight to see all that’s been done at the centre and meet the business tenants, board members, and staff,” she said. “UE does fantastic work to help new enterprises become sustainable and support aspiring entrepreneurs in gaining the skills they need to run their own business.”
Sharon Jandu praised Councillor Marshall Katung, highlighting her groundbreaking achievement as the first African Lord Mayor of Leeds. “There is no one more appropriate to be the first person to sign the guest book,” Jandu said. “Her involvement makes our 25th anniversary year even more memorable.”
Jandu also expressed pride in UE’s ongoing efforts to promote enterprise, share expertise, and improve life experiences for entrepreneurs, while emphasizing the organization’s future goals. “In collaboration with public and private sector partners, we believe we can reach even greater heights,” she added.
Adrian Green, UE’s manager, also reflected on the significance of the moment. “Councillor Marshall Katung is an iconic figure, and as the first citizen of Leeds, it is wonderful to see her name as the first entry in our guest book,” he said. “Leeds City Council has been incredibly supportive of our initiatives, and we look forward to continuing our work to create jobs and expand enterprise opportunities in the city.”
UE’s 25th anniversary marks a significant milestone in its mission to foster entrepreneurship and create sustainable business opportunities across Leeds and beyond.
