How Black leaders navigate race in the workplace.

“If you are the only one in the room, you are meant to be here.” Flavilla Fongang This quote struck a chord as I reflected on today's panel celebrating Black History Month, where community, connection and collective success were front and centre. I’m increasingly convinced that sustainable innovation and business growth are inseparable from inclusive leadership, psychological safety and purpose-driven community building. Flavilla reminded us that stepping into spaces where we may be the only one isn’t a token moment it’s a legitimate contribution. Meanwhile, Raphael Sofoluke has built platforms like the UK Black Business Show to amplify Black business leadership and create ecosystems of opportunity. Key take-aways for leaders and organisations: Prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as strategic levers for innovation, not just as check-boxes. Cultivate community and networks as vital components of wellbeing and resilience for leaders. Recognise that enabling others to rise supports your own leadership journey when people thrive, organisations thrive. If you’re navigating leadership transitions, scaling your team, or seeking to build more inclusive culture, these themes matter deeply. I’d welcome your thoughts: what practical steps have you taken to ensure that “the only one in the room” becomes “one of many voices at the table”? #BlackHistoryMonth #LinkedInNewsUK

“If you are the only one in the room, you are meant to be here.” Flavilla Fongang This quote struck a chord as I reflected on today's panel celebrating Black History Month, where community, connection and collective success were front and centre. I’m increasingly convinced that sustainable innovation and business growth are inseparable from inclusive leadership, psychological safety and purpose-driven community building. Flavilla reminded us that stepping into spaces where we may be the only one isn’t a token moment it’s a legitimate contribution. Meanwhile, Raphael Sofoluke has built platforms like the UK Black Business Show to amplify Black business leadership and create ecosystems of opportunity. Key take-aways for leaders and organisations: Prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as strategic levers for innovation, not just as check-boxes. Cultivate community and networks as vital components of wellbeing and resilience for leaders. Recognise that enabling others to rise supports your own leadership journey when people thrive, organisations thrive. If you’re navigating leadership transitions, scaling your team, or seeking to build more inclusive culture, these themes matter deeply. I’d welcome your thoughts: what practical steps have you taken to ensure that “the only one in the room” becomes “one of many voices at the table”? #BlackHistoryMonth #LinkedInNewsUK

This October, we stand with the public sector to mark UK Black History Month 2025 and the theme: “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” Power — the leadership and influence that drives change. Pride — the culture, creativity and contribution that shape our communities. Resilience & Progress — the determination that turns setbacks into momentum. Guided by CSC principles of inclusive engagement and lived-experience led learning, we’re focusing on meaningful action, not tokenism. Across the month we’ll: 👍 Host an In Conversation — a live dialogue on how leaders can use pride in their identity and values to influence culture, systems, and the people they serve. 👍 Publish a series of Expert Insights — an interview and reflection from practitioners, leaders and changemakers across the public sector. If you work in the public sector, we want to hear from you: share a story, nominate a colleague to feature in Expert Insights, or join the In Conversation. This month is about recognising contribution, amplifying leadership, and committing to structural change, together. #BlackHistoryMonth #StandingFirmInPowerAndPride #CivilService #PublicSector #InConversation #ExpertInsights #CSC UK Civil Service

Here’s a leadership lesson I had to learn the hard way: Sometimes the moment slips by — because the relationship wasn’t strong enough yet. A while back, I was leading a strategic initiative with a cross-functional team. Two members — both Black men — were consistently missing key meetings. And as a Black man myself, I felt a deep, personal responsibility to lead through it well. Eventually, I reached out to one of them for a one-on-one. He was apologetic. Took ownership. Promised to do better. But the truth is: I didn’t say everything I meant to say. I wanted to name how his presence matters — not just for the project, but for how Black male leadership is seen, honored, and respected in spaces like ours. I wanted to say: We need you here. I see you. And others are watching. But I didn’t. Why? Because I hadn’t done enough to build a foundation of trust with him. We hadn’t built enough relationship — and I wasn’t sure the message would land the way I intended. I’ve learned since then: Courageous conversations rely on consistent connection. If the relationship isn’t there, even the best intentions can falter. Have you ever missed the moment because the relationship wasn’t ready yet? What helped you do it differently next time? Let’s normalize reflecting on the moments we wish we’d led better — and using them to grow. 👇🏾

LEADERSHIP 112 YOU CAN DELIVER GREAT LEADERSHIP!! "Great leadership is possible and available even in black communities." #DrLennieEsomitoje Previous and Existing Great Leadership in Black Communities is a Testament to Resilience and Potential. The assertion that great leadership is possible and available even in Black communities is not only a statement of fact but a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and potential inherent in these communities. Throughout history, Black communities have faced systemic barriers that have often limited access to opportunities and resources. Despite these challenges, countless individuals have emerged as powerful leaders, inspiring and guiding their communities toward progress and equality. Here are a few reasons why great leadership is possible and available in Black communities: Rich History of Leadership: Black communities have a long and illustrious history of leadership, from the Underground Railroad conductors to the civil rights activists of the 20th century. These individuals demonstrated exceptional courage, determination, and strategic thinking in the face of adversity. Resilience and Adaptability: Black communities have often been forced to adapt to changing circumstances and overcome significant obstacles. This resilience has fostered a culture of innovation and problem-solving, which are essential qualities for effective leadership. Community-Centered Values: Many Black communities are deeply rooted in values of collective well-being, mutual support, and social justice. These values provide a strong foundation for leaders who are committed to serving the needs of their communities. Diverse Skillsets and Experiences: Black communities are home to individuals with a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity can lead to innovative solutions and effective leadership. Rising Generation of Leaders: A new generation of Black leaders is emerging, many of whom are highly educated, skilled, and passionate about making a positive impact on their communities. These individuals are poised to continue the legacy of great leadership in Black communities. In conclusion, while systemic challenges and historical injustices have undoubtedly impacted Black communities, these communities have also produced an abundance of exceptional leaders. By recognizing and supporting the leadership potential within Black communities, we can help to create a more equitable and just society for all.

Black executives hold just 1.2% of FTSE 100 positions. When you consider that Black people make up 3.9% of the general UK population, you can see a clear gap. This tells us something important about the path to leadership:the journey to the top isn't as open or straightforward for everyone. This isn't about blaming anyone; it's about seeing a system in action. Many companies are doing good work on diversity, but these numbers show that we still have more to do, particularly when it comes to getting black professionals into the most senior roles. The focus can't just be on bringing people in at the beginning of their careers. It has toalso be on making sure the way is clear for them to move up. For companies to truly achieve equity, we need to look closely at our talent pipelines. We have to ask ourselves: are there hidden barriers that might be holding people back? Are our promotion and development processes truly fair? How do you think we can make it easier for black professionals to ascend through leadership? Find out more here: https://zurl.co/lYJzg #WorkplaceChange #BlackLeaders #BlackProffesionals

Black History Month isn’t just a moment to celebrate, it’s a moment to reflect. Reflect on what we centre. Reflect on what we teach. Reflect on how we lead. In early years, the stories we tell and the images we show matter. But so does what happens behind the scenes: – Whose voices shape our decisions? – Whose lived experiences are reflected in our leadership? – What do our children see when they look around their environment - and at the people in it? Anti-racism isn’t a policy. It’s daily practice. And for leaders, it’s not just about representation. It’s about responsibility. There’s still so much to learn, and unlearn. But Black History Month is a good time to ask: 🔍 What am I actively doing to build a truly inclusive culture - for team members, children and families? #BlackHistoryMonth #Leadership #EarlyYears #AntiRacismInPractice #CultureAndPeople #NFamilyClub

This month, we reflect on the profound impact that Black leaders, innovators, and changemakers have had on our world, and the work that still lies ahead in advancing equity and representation. At Warren Partners | Certified B Corp, we are deeply committed to building leadership pipelines that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Representation in executive leadership is not just about fairness, it drives innovation, strengthens decision-making, and shapes more resilient organisations. We are taking this moment, during Black History Month, to share again our commitment to: 🔸Championing Black leadership talent at executive and board level 🔸Building collaborative networks that accelerate lasting change 🔸Supporting future generations of Black leaders through mentorship and advocacy Each day, we celebrate the achievements of Black trailblazers in business and beyond, and we remain steadfast in our responsibility to open doors for the leaders of tomorrow. #BlackHistoryMonth #Leadership #ExecutiveSearch #DiversityEquityInclusion

✨Some of the most powerful moves we make happen when we stop overanalyzing the roadblocks — and just move. ❤️Not recklessly, but boldly. With clarity of purpose. With trust in our own brilliance. We don’t always need a perfect plan. Sometimes we just need to act like the door is already open — and walk through it. Because playing small never protected us. And hesitation has never been our greatest strength. 🖤As Black professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, leaders — we carry enough excellence to shake rooms. And part of our power is in how we affirm that in each other. 📣So here’s a call to action: 👥 Let’s be bold enough to name the good we see in one another. Publicly. Generously. 🏷️Tag a Black colleague, friend, or leader whose work, presence, or character deserves to be seen and celebrated. Let’s normalize professional love notes, not just performance reviews. Let’s flood this platform with Black brilliance — and not just our own. Thank you Wunmi Idowu for an unforgettable evening. The Black Excellence Film Series is changing the narratives. #Leadership #BlackExcellence #BoldLeadership #SayTheGood #SupportBlackProfessionals #CareerGrowth #PurposeDriven #UpliftBlackVoices

❗Advice for the next generation of Black leaders: Be aware of the racism that still exists—but don’t let it shrink you. Don’t blend in to get by. Stand out, be bold, and take up space. You don’t have to fit in to lead. #BLJBAdvice #BlackLeadershipJobBoard