An Evening of Connection, Creativity and Purpose
On Tuesday 6th May, over 200 people gathered in the magnificent surroundings of Rochdale Town Hall for an evening of connection, creativity and purpose. The event, For Generations to Come, was hosted by the Ogden family, new majority shareholders in Rochdale AFC.
For Generations to Come is a new initiative rooted in the belief that Rochdale’s future is something we build together. From the outset, the event confirmed a growing sense of momentum in Rochdale, recognising that there is much to celebrate and many positive things already happening across the borough.
From grassroots community groups to local businesses and creative organisations, people are stepping forward, taking initiative and coming together around a shared sense of purpose.
A Joyful and Hopeful Start
The evening began with a drinks reception featuring stands from a range of local charities and organisations including Petrus, Pure Innovations, Positive Steps, Reach and Rochdale AFC Community Trust. Guests were then welcomed by a captivating performance from the Skylight Circus Arts youth team, a joyful opening that reflected Rochdale’s creative spirit.
Local and Regional Voices
Councillor Neil Emmott, Leader of Rochdale Borough Council, spoke about the borough’s proud story and the need to build on that legacy to create a thriving, inclusive future.
A thought-provoking panel discussion followed, bringing together diverse voices from across the community and further afield including:
- Maddy Hubbard from Action Together
- Aqub Nazir of Aspire 2 Inspire Communities
- Alison Mills-Daggat of Mill About
- Paul Ambrose of Rochdale BID
- Emily Bolton from Our Future
The discussion highlighted some of the great work already underway and emphasised that partnership will be essential to shaping what comes next in Rochdale.
Launch of the For Generations to Come Short Film
A standout moment of the evening was the launch of the For Generations to Come short film. The film captured the Ogden family’s long-term commitment to Rochdale and highlighted the ambition behind Rochdale AFC, its Community Trust and Dale Futures — a new initiative designed to inspire, support and create opportunities for the next generation.
Reflections from Cameron Ogden
Cameron Ogden, Co-Chairman of Rochdale AFC said: “It was a real pleasure to spend time with so many passionate people. The energy in the room was fantastic, united by a shared love for Rochdale. We celebrated the brilliant things already happening in the borough and people made real connections, which is so important when planning for future generations.”
A New Chapter with Our Future
As part of that ambition, Cameron announced a new collaboration between Rochdale AFC and Our Future. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that explores how a shared belief in the town, in each other and in the football club can be turned into real and lasting change.
Our Future’s first step is to listen, engage and get to know the incredible work already happening across Rochdale, as well as the big ambitions shaping its future.
You can email Our Future at hello@our-future.io as the team would love to hear from you.
Celebrating Local Identity
Throughout the evening, there was a strong spirit of collaboration, including a fun ‘Rochdale Test’, which featured quirky questions about the local area, language and history, as a reminder of the unique identity and heritage shared by the community.
Looking Ahead
Not only was the evening a celebration of what is already underway, but it was also a clear call to shape what comes next for the borough. It reinforced that lasting change does not come from any one organisation or idea, but from a shared sense of ownership and collective effort.
Watch the Video
Take a moment to watch the short recap film and feel the energy of the night:
