Situated in the heart of the UK, Leeds is the third largest and one of the fastest growing, greenest cities in the UK. The Leeds city region has a population of 3.1 million people and has the largest economy outside of London, representing a GVA value of £69 billion ($92 billion dollars). Leeds is built on a rich tradition of social innovation and has long been a pioneer in healthcare and technology. It's also a leader in key sectors such as legal, financial services, digital and creative industries. Leeds is also home to world-leading research and development through the city's five universities. With nearly a quarter of Leeds' population aged between 18 and 29 years old, Leeds is one of the youngest cities in the UK, making it a dynamic and vibrant place to live, work and visit. Leeds is an outward looking city that champions international cooperation, with over 50 years' experience working with international partners in China, Europe and beyond. Leeds is also an international capital of culture and is home to one of the longest running West Indian carnivals in Europe. It's also the only English city outside of London to have its own resident opera and ballet companies, the internationally renowned and award-winning Opera North and Northern Ballet. And although Brexit means the city can no longer run for European Capital of Culture, Leeds is continuing with its plans for Leeds 2023, a major international festival of culture.