Digital pioneer honoured with MBE

A North East technology and innovation figure has been recognised for their long-standing contribution to the region’s digital economy and creative culture.

Herb Kim, founder of influential conferences including Thinking Digital, TEDxNewcastle and TEDxDurham, has been awarded an Honorary MBE for services to technology in Northern England. 

Originally from New York, Herb moved to the North East in the early 2000s and has played a key role in shaping the region’s tech and innovation landscape.

He founded Codeworks in 2002 as a digital centre of excellence and went on to launch the Thinking Digital Conference in 2008, followed by TEDxNewcastle a year later. 

Since then, his work has helped position the region as a hub for ideas, creativity and emerging technology.

Herb, who in 2014 was named by Buzzfeed in its list of Geordie Heroes, said: “I am truly humbled to receive this award. 

“As a person born in Brooklyn, New York to Korean parents, never did I think I’d be accepting an Honorary MBE from His Majesty, the King.

“It is the honour of my life that my work is considered to have made an impactful contribution to the communities of technologists and innovators across the North East. 

“My deepest gratitude to all the companies, universities, organisations and colleagues who have collaborated with me across my 24 years working in the North.”

North East mayor Kim McGuinness said: “A huge congratulations to Herb on being awarded an Honorary MBE. 

“It’s incredibly well deserved as he’s worked tirelessly to grow our region’s tech and digital sectors.

“His important work is key to our region’s future success which ultimately means more jobs for local people, more investment and more opportunities for our young people. 

“Through impactful events Herb has shined a light on the brilliant innovation in our region, which has put the North East firmly on the map.” 

Now in its 17th year, the Thinking Digital Conference returns to Newcastle on 20 and 21 May, continuing its role as a flagship event in the North East’s innovation calendar.

Tickets to Thinking Digital Conference 2026, at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, are now on sale.

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