Working together to make Walsall the region’s most improved borough

Walsall College students and staff joined more than 160 passionate and ambitious leaders, residents and partners from across the borough at the first We Are Walsall 2040 conference.

The event was an opportunity to share successes and explore new ways to collaborate, working towards making Walsall the most improved borough in the region by 2040 and a vibrant, thriving community people are proud to call home.

Construction T Level students and staff participated in facilitated workshops which drove forward key priorities on health, productivity, crime, children and young people, net zero, and financial inclusion, with insights that will continue shaping the borough’s future.

The conference also marked the launch of the first We Are Walsall 2040 biannual report, showcasing the significant progress made in the 18 months since the strategy’s inception.

The new report captures the progress made against the priorities set out in the We Are Walsall 2040 Strategy; alongside powerful insights gathered from extensive community engagement. It reflects the voices of Walsall’s residents, businesses and partners—showcasing the collaborative work already underway to deliver our shared vision for a thriving, inclusive future.

The invite-only conference brought together local leaders, residents and partners to reflect on the journey so far and reaffirm a united commitment to Walsall’s future.

It featured a rich line-up of guest speakers, a compelling Lived Experience Panel, and an insightful Chief Officer Q&A which featured the college’s Deputy Principal, Kirsti Lord.  Together, they explored how their organisations are aligning efforts to deliver on the We Are Walsall 2040 vision, addressing challenges and championing opportunities for collective impact.

The entire event was also captured by Future Flames Productions, the college’s student enterprise.

Jatinder Sharma, CBE DL, Principal and Chief Executive at Walsall College said: “As citizens studying, living and working in the borough, our learners have a vital role to play in shaping and securing Walsall’s future growth and prosperity. Through We Are Walsall 2040 and other initiatives, we can ensure their voices are not only heard but acted upon in ways that demonstrate collaboration, inclusivity and an enterprising spirit—helping to bring about meaningful change.”

The We Are Walsall 2040 Report can be viewed here.