Global Plymouth Launch Event for Phase II

Twinning of commercial and social enterprise – a winning combination
Community
 

  • Roland Levinsky Building, University of Plymouth

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We are pleased to announce the official launch of Phase II of Global Plymouth. Global Plymouth is all about creating space for collaboration, inclusion and impact. Now, we’re bringing it all together in one powerful celebration.
With the generous support of the Devon Chamber of Commerce, this next phase seeks to bring together our growing local, national and international network onto a shared platform. The aim is to showcase initiatives that combine economic innovation with social impact, and to encourage dialogue and collaboration across sectors.

Programme highlights

  • Exhibitions of initiatives supporting local communities
  • Empowerment and skills development workshops
  • Live performances featuring music, dance and the spoken word
  • Facilitated discussions exploring the intersection of commercial and social entrepreneurship
  • SWATchat 11: “Tariffs – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” a community conversation led by experts and local voices (see below for details)
We warmly invite members of the public, community leaders, students, professionals and entrepreneurs to join us as we celebrate the power of community and connection.
Registration is essential via the above link. Please be aware that registering will require obtaining free membership of Global Plymouth (see below for further information about our group).
Email poorna.gunasekera@plymouth.ac.uk for further information.
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SWATchat 11: 18:00–20:00, Levinsky Hall (registration required via the above link to assist with catering and refreshments)

Think tariffs are just for economists? Think again.

Join us for SWATchat 11, a community conversation unpacking the realities of tariffs, how they shape global trade, impact local economies and influence everyday lives.
This isn’t a lecture; it’s a lively, honest and inclusive discussion where global expertise meets lived experience.
Expect big questions, bold opinions and plenty of room for debate, plus live audience Q&A, refreshments and networking, and a space for curiosity, clarity and community-led insight.
Don’t miss this chance to hear from some of the brightest minds in trade, policy and law and to be part of a grounded, inclusive conversation that matters.
Whether you're a student, a trader, an activist, or just someone trying to make sense of the world – this conversation is for you.
Free. Open to all. Come curious. Leave informed.

Keynote speakers

Dr Patrick Holden , Associate Professor of International Relations, University of Plymouth
Patrick is a leading expert in international trade politics and diplomacy, with over two decades of research experience. His work spans the EU, WTO, UK Freeports and the role of trade in the Global Sustainable Development Goals. Patrick regularly contributes to policy conversations on Brexit, local development and global trade, and is widely respected for bridging academic insight with community and business engagement.
Dr Alexander Haupt , Associate Professor (Reader) in Economics, University of Plymouth
Alexander’s work focuses on the intersection of economics, environmental policy and global integration. He has published extensively on international environmental agreements, tax competition and sustainability challenges. A Research Fellow of CESifo Munich and member of key economic associations, Alexander brings a global lens to regional realities.

Panellists

Linda Middleton-Jones, Founder & Managing Director, International Trade Matters
With a career spanning over 25 years, Linda is a nationally recognised voice in international commerce. A pioneer behind initiatives such as the Manufacturing Barometer and the Global Trade Blueprint, she has shaped trade policy through practical innovation. From chambers of commerce to government advisory roles, Linda continues to empower businesses to navigate international trade through insight, experience and strategic sensemaking.
Victoria Ferguson, Managing Associate Practice Development Lawyer, Womble Bond Dickinson UK
Victoria brings over two decades of legal expertise in commercial contracts, both in-house and across international sectors. She has advised on global supply chains, tariff-related clauses and resilience strategies. Based in Plymouth, she plays a pivotal role in delivering practical, sector-specific guidance on navigating complex trade frameworks.

Global Plymouth Meetup Group

Global Plymouth Meetup Group was formed by a group of University of Plymouth students and staff, many of international origin, in October 2021. The organisation is dedicated to forming sustainable social bonds between the residents of Plymouth and surrounding areas and our own students and staff, with the twin aims of reducing social isolation and proactively battling hate crime. The group has over 1,800 members, many of whom are University staff and students. There are also many community members who represent the full social spectrum of Plymouth. The group has organised over 285 events across 15 countries which have helped unify our community into a welcoming, caring family.

Event photography and video

Please be aware that some of the University of Plymouth's public events (both online and offline) may be attended by University staff, photographers and videographers, for capturing content to be used in University online and offline marketing and promotional materials, for example webpages, brochures or leaflets. If you, or a member of your group, do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please let a member of staff know.