The School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment’s EDI event empowers future leaders
As part of its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), Nottingham Trent University’s School of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment (ADBE) hosted “The Power of Networking” event, a dynamic event tied to Black History Month. Open to all, the event aimed to enable attendees to build connections, boost career confidence, and empower under-represented groups.
By Ruth Melling | Published on 7 November 2024
Led by keynote speaker Timothy Onyenobi, the event provided a platform to discuss strategies for successful networking, tips for building confidence, and ways to combat imposter syndrome. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from a panel of experienced professionals and recent graduates, including ADBE Visiting Fellow and EDI Strategy Advisor Nelly Twumasi-Mensah, and alumni like entrepreneur and lecturer Priten Chauhan, as well as Vivien Machmud, winner of the EDI Matters Competition.
The event marked the launch of the 2024 ADBE EDI Competition, an annual initiative inviting students to present ideas and creative solutions for promoting inclusivity in the built environment sector. It also showcased key NTU initiatives, including Success for All, efforts to close performance and awards gaps, and highlighted programmes such as the Black Leadership Programme and the Fortitude International Mentorship Programme. These initiatives are designed to support students from under-represented groups as they pursue leadership and career success in the industry.
Students, staff, alumni, and industry guests came together to celebrate and learn. Attendees left with a fresh perspective on the value of networking, with many noting the practical, career-focused advice they received from speakers.
The event was memorable and inspiring experience for many students. BSc (Hons) Real Estate student Nidhin Mohan shared how he felt encouraged by Timothy Onyenobi’s advice, especially regarding Manchester’s architectural scene, which has been a career goal of his. “Hearing about his experiences motivated my goal to join Manchester’s thriving industry and the limitless possibilities it offers for growth and development,” said Nidhin.
Liz Radice, Student Experience and Engagement Lead for ADBE commented, “I was thrilled to incorporate more student voice this year, inviting a recent graduate, entrepreneur and new colleague Priten Chauhan, our fabulous EDI Matters competition winners Vivien Ervona and Chloe Brierley, and Afia Peprah reflecting on her NTU Black Leadership Programme.”
“It was a great evening of inspirational talks, panel discussions and networking… great contributions from Nelly, Timothy, Priten, Afia among others” commented the School’s Employability Manager, Chris Jones.
By the end of the event, students and alumni were mingling over refreshments, putting the session’s lessons into practice in a supportive setting. As they prepared for the upcoming Built Environment Fair, attendees felt ready to take on networking challenges, confident in their ability to connect and succeed.
Find out more about our commitment to sustaining a highly effective learning and working environment characterised by fairness, equality of opportunity and the valuing of diversity.
If you’re interested in any of our EDI programmes at the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment please contact anthony.ogbuokri@ntu.ac.uk.