Newport Engagement Hub: Powering positive change in the city

South Wales Argus

4 days ago

One of the Hub's flagship collaborations is its involvement in the Business in the Community (BITC) Newport Place Programme, a collective of 15 anchor institutions working together to create lasting positive change for Newport. As a founding partner, USW has taken a leading role - hosting listening events that bring together local business and community voices to shape needs-led initiatives.
These insights have directly informed the design and operation of the Engagement Hub itself, ensuring it is a welcoming and useful space for both business and community partners.
The Hub is also supporting initiatives that widen access to education. USW's partnership with The Brilliant Club has enabled the launch of the Newport Parent Power Chapter - a programme engaging over 100 parents and carers from under-represented communities to build confidence and familiarity with higher education.
Nia Oatley, Communities Manager for The Brilliant Club, said:
'The University of South Wales' generosity in hosting Parent Power Newport meetings at their Newport Engagement Hub has been truly transformative. Their support provides us with a welcoming, accessible space where parents can connect, collaborate, and drive real change. This partnership empowers our community, strengthens our mission, and ensures that every parent's voice is heard.'
Through Startup Stiwdio and community connections, the Hub is supporting graduate ventures, providing work-based learning opportunities, and enabling co-designed curriculum developments that reflect the skills needs of local employers.
Julie-Anne Baker, a graduate entrepreneur, shared how the Hub has supported her journey:
'The Engagement Hub has provided me a space where I can safely operate my business from and feel connected to both other start-ups and gain support from individuals experienced in running businesses. The programmes like the business development programme have helped me to quickly gain a deeper understanding of business models and rapidly grow my private practice.'
The Hub is also proving valuable for established professionals and industry partnerships. David Champs, Director of Revive Development Consultants Ltd, said:
'Working from the Engagement Hub has facilitated valuable collaboration with USW as an academic partner. I've benefited from a Global MBA intern, support from the CEMET team, and access to workspace and technology that's been instrumental to the development of my consultancy.'
USW's involvement in programmes such as BITC Newport, Newport Parent Power, and a wide range of grassroots civic collaborations reflects a bold and meaningful approach to engagement - one that puts people, place, and purpose at the centre.
The Newport Engagement Hub is not just a university facility - it is a shared community asset, helping Newport to grow in a way that is inclusive, connected and genuinely impactful.
Whether you're a business looking for flexible workspace, a community organisation in need of a welcoming venue, or a local resident with an idea to explore - we'd love to hear from you.
To find out more about using the Newport Engagement Hub, or to arrange a tour of the space, contact the team at [e-mail].