From Founders to Future Makers

The Arise Innovation Hub in Chelmsford is proud to unveil a striking new portrait series, The Founders Photography Project, celebrating the people, partnerships, and vision that continue to shape the region’s thriving innovation ecosystem.

Commissioned and captured by Chelmsford’s Ross Willsher Commercial Photography, the collection features 12 portraits of key individuals behind Arise’s success. Known for his storytelling-led commercial and PR imagery across Essex and London, Willsher’s work offers a natural and engaging glimpse into the personalities driving innovation forward.

The series showcases a diverse group of Arise members and partners, including Jason Harrop of Afede Wellness; Howard Wu, CEO of Antobot; and Muntazir Panjwani and Tom Castle of Vibe Agency. Also featured are Amelia Clapham of Ace Music Therapy CIC and Jody Blacklock from Create Consulting Engineers, highlighting the breadth of talent within the Hub’s growing community.

The portraits also recognise the wider partnership network supporting Arise, including Anglia Ruskin University’s Business and Partnership Development Managers Sarah Bell and Julian Gibbs, alongside Fiona Bodle, Assistant Director of Strategic Innovation at ARU. Regional leaders include Michael Veasey, Sector Growth Manager at Essex County Council, and Stuart Graham, Economic Development and Implementation Services Manager at Chelmsford City Council. 

Displayed across the Hub in black-and-white on aluminium boards, the portraits create a powerful, cohesive exhibition. The monochrome style emphasises authenticity and character, reflecting the ambition and collaboration at the heart of Arise.

Beverley Vaughan, Innovation Hubs Director, said:

“The Founders Photography Project celebrates the vision, people, and partnerships that have shaped the Arise Innovation Hub in Chelmsford… These portraits reflect authenticity, ambition, and the collaborative energy at the heart of Arise. They serve as a visual reminder of the people who make innovation happen.”

Visitors are invited to explore the Hub and experience the exhibition first hand. Book a tour of our office space, email [email protected]