Wade Lyn CBE CD DL

Wade came to Britain from Jamaica to join his parents when he was seven years old. He helped in the family business, a service and petrol station, while still at school. He graduated in 1986 with a BA in Education specialising in Craft, Design & Technology, and started his working life in the catering industry in Wolverhampton. In 1989 he set up Cleone Foods Ltd, in Birmingham, which is now the largest manufacturer of Jamaican patties in the UK. He has played a big part in bringing Caribbean foods into the mainstream. He willingly shares his experience, mentoring new businesses and supporting those who wish to develop and grow.

In November 2013 Wade was appointed by the Government of Jamaica as Honorary Consul for Jamaica for the North. An important role as Birmingham has the largest Jamaican community in the UK outside London.

Wade has held many positions in the West Midlands which include Director of Greets Green Partnership, Regional Director Business in the Community, Chairman of the 12/8 Group and Board member of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP.

In 2013 Wade was made a CBE, which was followed in 2000 with the award of Commander in the Office of Distinction by the Government of Jamaica.

The end of March 2024 brings to an end a fascinating and most enjoyable year of Wade Lyn CBE as the High Sheriff of the West Midlands. He attended civic, social and religious events in churches, temples, restaurants and more in his tenure, finishing on a high at Annual Service in St Chad’s Cathedral Birmingham. I believe the community is proud of the way he has handled himself as High Sheriff, being credit to us all.

A stalwart in our community is how I would describe this individual. To start a business from scratch and to have achieved such outstanding success in the commercial sector is commendable and a shining example to all, especially in the African and Caribbean communities. A definite role model and a person who likes to help others to climb the ladder of success. His tenure as the High Sheriff of the West Midlands has definitely been an honour and a commendable achievement in our community.

It is great to see what can be achieved and how it is done in such successful manner. It is never going to be easy to achieve aims and objectives, but the right applications, strategies and tools is likely to help anyone realise their desired outcome.

Source: West Midlands Lieutenancy. West Lyn CBE CD DL

Image Source: Linkedin