Introduction
Throughout the month of October, various sectors across in UK have been recognising the pivotal contributions, struggles, and vibrant heritage of the Black community… We take a look at some of the standout initiatives this year…
Clifford Chance celebrates Black excellence
In a move to honour Black History Month 2023, Clifford Chance, one of the UK’s leading law firms, welcomed I. Stephanie Boyce, an eminent figure in the legal world, for a fireside chat. The event was organised in collaboration with the firm’s Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage network REACH.
Stephanie Boyce made history as the 177th President of the Law Society of England and Wales, becoming the first Black and second in-house solicitor to hold this prestigious position in nearly half a century. Her journey was marked with ground-breaking achievements and shattered glass ceilings.
Stephanie Boyce said: “Black History Month UK is a momentous occasion to recognise, honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions of black people and others to British society. It’s a reminder that black history is not just a part of the past—it’s an integral and ongoing part of our nation’s story.”
Furthermore, Clifford Chance launched “Black in Law,” a one-day conference designed for students and graduates of Black Heritage who aspire to pursue a career in law.
The event featured Black role models from the firm who shared their experiences, provided insights into navigating the legal industry, and conducted skills sessions and interactive workshops aimed at supporting recruitment.
Barclays bank launches the Black Formation Investments Fund
Barclays took a significant step by launching the Barclays Black Formation Investments (BBFI) fund, managed by Zeal Capital Partners. This $50 million (£41 million) investment vehicle is dedicated to supporting pre-seed Black-led companies focused on narrowing wealth and skills gaps through innovative technologies and tech-enabled services. The fund, established in October 2023, targets investments in projects led by exceptional founders, aiming to make a substantial impact.
BBFI also stands out by funding a venture scout program to identify and train the next generation of venture scouts, creating opportunities for overlooked venture capital professionals and growing the pool of future investors. The fund primarily focuses on the USA but also extends its support to the UK, EU, Canada, and Switzerland.
Slaughter & May empowers the next generation
Legal firm Slaughter & May played its part by offering paid internships to Black students and graduates in various departments, including Knowledge and Innovation, HR, Finance, Technology, Responsible Business, and Disputes and Investigations teams. These internships, in partnership with the #10,000 Black Interns initiative, provided valuable insights into fostering an inclusive environment.
Uzma Hamid-Dizier, director of Responsible Business of Slaughter & May, said: “The role of leaders is central to bringing about the change within our firms in terms of our culture and the way we work. We do not think that this role can be delegated to others.”
The firm also partnered with the Black Excellence Network (BEN), a network created by Black students to challenge disparities in educational attainment. BEN members had direct access to Slaughter & May’s lawyers and were invited to recruitment events, fostering a supportive environment for aspiring Black professionals.
KPMG hosts inspirational events
KPMG marked Black History Month with a career event featuring keynote speakers George Obolo and Oyinda Adeniyi, co-founders of the Black Excellence Network. They have received numerous awards for their work, highlighting the impact of their initiatives.
Hosted by members of KPMG’s African Caribbean Network, the event provided a platform for attendees to hear the career journeys of Black senior leaders at the firm, with a particular focus on the role of inspirational women. Graduate trainees and apprentices were also present to answer questions and provide insights into career development.
St Ives Chambers promotes inclusivity
St Ives Chambers celebrated Black History Month by hosting a special event aimed at undergraduate and postgraduate students, including those aspiring to enter the legal profession. The event featured a one-to-one CV workshop and careers talk, followed by opportunities for attendees to engage with senior legal professionals and members of Chambers. This initiative aimed to provide guidance and support for those considering careers in law.
The event also emphasised the importance of inclusivity by encouraging students from Black ethnic backgrounds to participate. Elizabeth Isaacs KC, Head of Chambers, and Tom Lawal offered informative career talks and insights into pursuing a career in law.
NHS pays tribute to pioneering Black women in healthcare
The National Health Service (NHS) also joined the chorus of celebration, holding events that focused on the achievements of Black women in healthcare.
The Health and Care Women Leaders Network, an NHS initiative, will host its annual conference in November. The event will showcase accomplished Black women as keynote speakers who will share their career journeys and insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by Black women in the healthcare sector.
Joan Saddler OBE, director of partnerships and equality, NHS Confederation said: “As we ‘Salute our Sisters’, we celebrate those pioneers from across Britain and the ‘British Empire’ of old, who made the NHS possible. We especially celebrate those who have overcome institutional racism to become its leaders today.
“We also acknowledge the huge contribution made by our invisible sisters, undertaking many of the unglamorous and unappreciated jobs in our own workplaces. Let’s take a few minutes to thank them all as a key driving force powering the NHS.”
Sam Allen, chair, Health, and Care Women Leaders Network said: “The Health and Care Women Leaders Network will continue to honour and support the remarkable black women working in the healthcare sector. They have not only provided essential care but have also been advocates for underrepresented communities, enriching the healthcare sector.”
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