Being Leeds born and bred, with a granddad who owned a flat cap and a sheep dog, it is no surprise that I feel the need to defend my native Yorkshire.

So, what is it that I love about Leeds? Well, it’s the fact that we care, we care about our city, our people and our community. In a competitive world that hales a dog eat dog mentally, it is the friendly smile, a warm Yorkshire welcome and the community support that helps me sleep at night.

So why am I telling you this? Well, charitable giving within the community is often met with cynical criticism but can it not just be a genuine need to help others.

Leeds-based company Core Telecom, headed by Mahmood Mazhar has been turning its hand to charitable giving in a bid to help its surrounding community. Supporting one staff member on a trek of the Great Wall of China on behalf of The Alzheimer’s Society, helping in the renovation of a church hall and becoming the main sponsor of local event the Sh! Awards. The initiative provides an outlet for creative design students in Yorkshire to display their work and ultimately gain a placement at a top advertising agency.

Mahmood Mazhar, of Core Telecom Ltd, is using his success to help those around him develop their own talents. Mazhar, owner of Norman Bar in Leeds also hosted an after party event in celebration of Yorkshire-based students and their accomplishments.

The substantial contribution of companies around the region is often overlooked. There are good people out there who are willing to make a difference. Let us celebrate Yorkshire and be proud to say we have the means and talent in the region to stand up and be counted.

You can follow Mahmood Mazhar on Twitter @MahmoodMazhar