Skip to content

Black Leadership Programme

Real Estate student Afia Peprah took part in the Black Leadership Programme in 2023/24.

The Project 

The Black Leadership Programme (BLP) is a unique opportunity to connect with fellow students, develop skills, and build your leadership profile.

The programme is designed for second-year students from Black heritage backgrounds, encompassing the diverse histories, cultures, and experiences of people of African and Caribbean descent, including those of mixed heritage.

The programme which runs from November to April includes:

  • Safe spaces for students to be seen, heard and connect
  • The opportunity to make meaningful connections and have open conversations
  • A launch event
  • A range of personal and professional development workshops
  • Opportunities to network with peers, leaders, and employers
  • Mentorship from a Black professional in industry
  • Employability modules and skills workshops
  • A final celebration event and a letter of achievement from the Vice-Chancellor

Afia's feedback

Why did you get involved with the programme?

As an international student with a different cultural background from the UK, I wanted to connect with like-minded individuals. This led me to join the Black Leadership Programme, and it has been an amazing journey ever since. I've acquired a wealth of invaluable experiences such as being confidence.

How did the programme help you overall?

The Black Leadership Programme significantly boosted my confidence. Additionally, it taught me that I can confidently enter a room with high-ranking individuals and achieve anything I set my mind to, as long as I remain disciplined.

How did your mentor help you?

During a time when I was searching for an industry internship, my mentor reached out through an email to get to know me better. He showed genuine concern for my well-being and was eager to assist in any way possible. His advice on securing an internship was greatly treasured, and with his support, I managed to gain some industry work experience.

What are your future plans?

As a final-year student, my plan after earning my first degree is to take my APC and become a Chartered Surveyor with the RICS. This qualification will allow me to leverage my invaluable and insightful knowledge to make significant improvements in every space I enter.

What advice would you give to a future student considering taking part in the programme?

Absolutely, GO FOR IT! It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with people of similar ethnicity, which is quite rare. I formed some wonderful friendships through this programme, and you can too! Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your thoughts. This experience will boost your confidence and help you realize your inner strength to achieve anything you desire in life.

Afia Peprah, Property Management and Development student

We are delighted that our students have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of opportunities and create valuable networks during their time at NTU.  The Black Leadership Programme is a great example of one of the many targeted initiatives at NTU that really help to enhance the student experience and drive forward our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion as well as boosting students' skills and future employability.

Chris Jones, School Employability Manager

About the Black Leadership Programme

The programme offers second-year students of Black heritage the opportunity to connect and upskill through a range of community and leadership focused workshops.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in ADBE

Discover what the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment are doing to tackle issues that impact our NTU community.

About ADBE

We are a hub of expertise for aspiring and professional product designers, architects, engineers, surveyors and property and construction experts.

Are you thinking of studying with us?

Visiting us at an open day is the perfect way to experience life and learning as built environment, architecture and design students at NTU.