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Stoke Made Me — Made in Stoke
Personal stories

Stoke made me…

Welcome to Stoke Made Me, a dedicated space where we celebrate the grit, creativity, and ambition woven into the fabric of our city.

Here we are bringing together inspiring, aspirational stories from everyday Stokies who are making their mark, reflecting on how our rich heritage, working-class spirit, and tight-knit community forged their path to success both locally and globally.

From pioneering entrepreneurs and groundbreaking artists to local leaders making waves across the world, these uplifting accounts prove that being raised in Stoke-on-Trent doesn't just shape your roots - it fuels your biggest achievements.

Portrait of Sir Tristram Hunt

Stoke made me proud.

Sir Tristram Hunt

Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum

Sir Tristram Hunt was Member of Parliament for Stoke-on-Trent Central from 2010 to 2017, before becoming Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

“The culture, community and pride of The Potteries has touched so many people, born in Stoke-on-Trent or those who have just lived there, that it is important to give something back. Made in Stoke is a tremendous campaign to ensure that the Stoke diaspora in the UK and around the world use their influence, connections, and skills to encourage investment, innovation and creativity into North Staffordshire and ensure the city’s long-term reinvention.”
Portrait of Justine Simons OBE

Stoke made me creative.

Justine Simons OBE

Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries, London

Justine has played a central role in the cultural transformation of London for two decades. She was awarded an OBE in 2015 for Services to Culture.

“Stoke is a city built on the talent and creativity of generations of craftspeople. We pioneered incredible new techniques, spearheaded the industrial revolution and invented oatcakes! Made in Stoke is bottling all this talent and potential and looking to the future, it’s a privilege to be involved.”
Portrait of Matthew Bowcock CBE

Stoke made me connected.

Matthew Bowcock CBE

Technology entrepreneur and philanthropist

Matthew is a technology entrepreneur who has founded a number of businesses in Australia, the US and the UK.

“Stoke has created so many inspirational, talented people, both in the city and across the world. Made in Stoke can bring them together to create a place where new talent can thrive.”
Portrait of Nathan Gray in flying helmet beside an aircraft

Stoke made me a high flier.

Nathan Gray

Aviation Leader, Test Pilot & STEM Ambassador. Author of Hazard Spectrum - life in the danger zone.

“Growing up right here in Stoke-on-Trent, I went from local student to the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm’s 'Top Gun.'”

Over a 30-year military career, I flew more than 140 combat missions, earned the elite Royal Marines green beret, and received gallantry awards from the Queen and US President.

“As a UK STEM Ambassador, I’m proud to show local students that big dreams start right here in Stoke.”

Stoke made you. Now it’s your turn to make Stoke.

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