We Are Local Heroes is aiming to use the power of storytelling to connect, inspire and shape the world around us
We Are Local Heroes has been launched to shine a light on the people, places and stories that define our communities through podcasts, documentaries, events and products. At the heart of the mission are three visionary directors – each bringing their own expertise, creativity and passion to the table.
The roots of We Are Local Heroes trace back to Food and Drink North East (FADNE), the region’s only farm to plate trade organisation. The original initiative was launched during the Covid pandemic as an online store selling regional produce – connecting local makers with consumers in a time of crisis. While Dan, Chris and Rosie remain closely involved with FADNE, they have established We Are Local Heroes as a separate entity. This shift allows them to pursue more creative, community-driven and consumer-focused projects, unlocking their collective expertise in the written word, visual storytelling, event curation, and product merchandising.
Dan Prince is a filmmaker, photographer and director who thrives on capturing the raw, authentic stories of real people. With a creative mind always in motion (and usually a brew in hand), he approaches projects with curiosity, knowledge and a desire to understand his subjects. His mission is to create work that resonates with honesty and purpose, whether through film or photography. He has worked with brands including Greggs, Macmillan, Waitrose, BASF, the BBC, the NHS, Channel 4, Manchester United and Microsoft. At We Are Local Heroes, Dan’s talent for podcast hosting and visual storytelling plays a crucial role in bringing local narratives to life – highlighting the makers, the doers, and the unsung heroes of our communities.
Chris Jewitt is the CEO of Food and Drink North East, an organisation which brings together more than 250 members from across the industry. With more than 25 years of experience working across Asia, Africa, Central America, China and the Middle East – he has played a key role in sourcing ingredients, developing ethical supply chains and supporting brands to unlock international business opportunities. Beyond his industry expertise, Chris is a passionate advocate for food culture and entrepreneurship. He sits on DEFRA’s Food and Drink Sector Council, ensuring regional voices are heard at a national level. At We Are Local Heroes, he serves as a creator, curator and podcast host – using his knowledge and storytelling abilities to explore the people and ideas that shape our communities.
Lover of food, eater of food and writer on food, Rosie Jenkinson brings a sharp editorial eye and a passion for storytelling to We Are Local Heroes. As a freelance food and drink copywriter, she has built a career in feature writing, proofreading, digital content and social media – helping brands craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. With experience in magazine publishing and digital content management, Rosie knows how to bring words to life. Whether it’s writing about the perfect bite or capturing the heart of a community through storytelling, she helps shape the voice of We Are Local Heroes, making sure every story is as rich and flavourful as the people behind it.
We Are Local Heroes is more than just a creative platform – it is a movement dedicated to celebrating the people who make our local communities thrive. It also aims to foster a sense of belonging, amplify important voices and bring people together with passion and purpose because local stories aren’t just worth telling – they’re worth celebrating.
For more on We Are Local Heroes, including where to find the films and podcast – which has already featured Si King and Appetite columnist Laura Middleton – as well as information on the food markets it hosts across the region, visit www.wearelocalheroes.com
