The issue

Analysis shows that leadership teams within the UK charity sector are predominantly white, and funders are disproportionately funding white-led charities. Yet we know that racial diversity is not only good for society, but it is also good for performance - teams with greater ethnic diversity perform better and make better decisions than non-diverse teams.

The Leadership Academy aims to support the development of leaders from ethnic minority backgrounds, enabling them to progress into more senior roles in the UK youth sector, ultimately to improve outcomes for young people from ethnic minority backgrounds.

The programme

The programme supports participants to explore and develop their personal leadership styles, increase their knowledge in key management topics, and access networks that can unlock more senior leadership roles. The programme is designed and delivered by people from ethnic minority backgrounds for people from ethnic minority backgrounds.

The 8-month fully-funded programme consists of:

• Technical masterclasses: Topics include fundraising, impact management, financial management and more. Participants will have the opportunity to widen their technical knowledge and share their expertise and experience on key topics.
• Coaching: Participants receive eight 90-minute coaching sessions with a qualified coach, working towards agreed goals. This non-directive support is a powerful tool for leaders to solve their challenges with the support of an independent and expert coach.
• Mentoring: Participants receive four 60-minute mentoring sessions with corporate volunteers. Mentors will share their experience and expertise and offer advice and guidance on topics relevant to participants.
• Networking and events: Participants will attend and take part in networking events, including an annual panel discussion event. Participants will also benefit from bespoke networking opportunities, brokered by Impetus.