An entrepreneur who has built a successful business in one of the most deprived wards in the country has had his service to the community recognised.
Wade Lyn, managing director and founder of Cleone Foods, makers of ‘Island Delight’ patties and slices is one of a handful of ‘local heroes’ chosen by the Association of Jamaican Nationals.
His factory in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter employs 50 people many of whom live in the neighbouring area which is one of the most deprived in the country.
Cleone Foods provides education and training opportunities for its workers as well as mentoring small businesses.
The company makes more than 100,000 Caribbean style patties and slices a week making it the largest producer in the UK.
It has an ethos of supporting community initiatives through sponsorship and practical support.
“It is important for businesspeople to take their community responsibilities seriously and put something back,” said Wade Lyn, who came to the UK from Jamaica with his family as a young child.
Wade is a Business Ambassador for the Prince of Wales in the West Midlands and member of the West Midlands Minority Ethnic Business Forum. He was also shortlisted this year for the Entrepreneur of the Year accolade at the National Food Awards.
The Association of Jamaican Nationals is a representative group of Jamaicans whose aims and objectives are to enhance, promote and serve the Jamaican community throughout the UK.
Since its inception in 1990, it has acted as enabler and facilitator to its members by creating direct and indirect contact with government and non-governmental departments, both at home and abroad. It is a representative body for residents and returning residents alike.
