RTC North proudly placed the spotlight on future leaders as the sponsor of the Rising Star Award at the Innovation in Business Awards 2025, hosted by the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce as part of its 175th anniversary awards dinner. 

The event, an annual celebration of innovation and enterprise, brought together business leaders and emerging talents to recognise outstanding achievements across the Liverpool City Region. 

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Rising Star Award, sponsored by RTC North and presented to Alfie Fitzsimmons of Alfie’s Squad, a pioneering charity dedicated to supporting children and young people who have been bereaved by suicide. The award was presented by Jamie Ollivere, Chief Executive of RTC North. 

This award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated remarkable promise and impact within their field, and Alfie’s contributions to educational innovation truly exemplify the spirit of this recognition. 

Alfie’s Squad provides a safe, nurturing environment where children aged 6 to 18, as well as young adults and their families, can rebuild their lives with the help of a compassionate community. Alfie’s Squad runs the UK’s only peer support groups for children affected by suicide, offering both in-person sessions in Liverpool and a national online support group. 

These weekly gatherings focus on fun activities and challenges designed to reduce isolation, improve self-worth, and foster lasting friendships among children who share similar experiences. 

By working closely with schools, healthcare providers, and local organisations, Alfie’s Squad ensures that every child receives tailored support and the opportunity to thrive beyond their loss. 

The ceremony, attended by 400 guests at St George’s Hall, was also supported by headline sponsor Lexus Liverpool, associate sponsor Frank Rogers Construction, and AV support from MSP Global, alongside the Liverpool Chamber’s dedicated team.  

Award winners were selected by an independent panel of judges representing the diverse business landscape across the Liverpool City Region. 

Jamie Ollivere, Chief Executive of RTC North, commented: “RTC North is committed to nurturing talent and supporting those who are shaping the future through innovation, creativity and dedication. Alfie is an inspiring example of how passion and purpose can create lasting change, and we are proud to recognise his incredible achievements. 

“Sponsoring the Rising Star Award forms part of our wider mission across the North to champion innovation and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers. Through our  support, we aim to help them realise their potential and make a real impact within their communities, their region and beyond.”