Ethnic Minorities into Leadership London

Tuesday 18th November 2025
in partnership with the FDA

Now in its fourteenth year, the annual Ethnic Minorities into Leadership conference has established itself as the key event for those interested in enhancing the capabilities & leadership opportunities for Ethnic Minority Civil Servants. The conference & speakers will examine how  Ethnic Minority individuals, at any grade, can continue to overcome barriers, build networks and become the leaders they aspire to be. 

Drawing on the strengths of previous events, this year's conference will centre on driving professional development & change. It will offer hands-on advice, practical steps and coaching on how to adapt to new environments, expand networks, utilise opportunities effectively and further your career in times of change.

Ethnic Minorities into Leadership London will also hold an awards ceremony to celebrate inspirational leaders who are breaking barriers, challenging the status quo and paving the way for a more inclusive Civil Service.

Attendees will hear from inspirational speakers of all grades & levels both within and outside the Civil Service. Plus learn valuable strategies on how to manage the challenges of modern leadership and help ensure the Civil Service doesn't lose momentum in recruiting, retaining and rewarding Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic leaders.   

This event is CPD-Certified and will contribute to your professional development.

Why attend?

• Examine the barriers & enablers affecting your progression
• Receive hands-on advice & coaching for your professional development 
• Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and competencies required to be a successful leader
• Hear from senior Ethnic Minority leaders on how to succeed 
• Network with peers & counterparts from across the public sector also trying to further their careers 
• Hear from inspirational speakers of all grades and levels from across the public and private sectors

8:30

Registration

09:20

Chair’s welcome and introduction

CHAIR: Justin Placide, Head of Ministerial Briefing, Business Management and Fiscal Events, Department of Energy Security & Net Zero; Co-Chair of both the FAME Network and the Civil Service Race Forum

09:30

Opening address 

Inclusive leadership: supporting Ethnic Minority talent in a mission-led environment

Selvin Brown, Director Net Zero Buildings, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

10:00

Transition to breakout sessions

10:10

Breakout session A

Managing upwards: improving your relationships with your manager

Godfrey Atuahene Jr, Bank of England; Former Civil Servant

10:10

Breakout session B

Long-term vision: thinking strategically about your career 

10:10

Breakout session C

Running the room: speaking with confidence and authority in high-stakes situations

Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts

11:10

Networking and refreshments 

11:10

One-to-one spot mentoring

Informal 10-minute sessions with a Civil Service Selection Consultant.

Available on a drop-in basis -- no pre-booking required.

Open to civil servants at all grades and from all departments.

Ideal for career advice and leadership insight.

11:40

Plenary Address 

Boldly You: the power of authentic leadership   
Anikka Weerasinghe, Director of Communications and Engagement, House of Commons

12:10

Transition to breakout sessions

12:20

Breakout session D

Handling conflict at work: practical tools for difficult conversations

Dina Rana, Executive Coach & Senior Marketing Leader, Dina Rana Coaching

12:20

Breakout session E

From stress to strength: bouncing back with resilience

Saj Zafar, CEO & Founder, LeadHership Academy

12:20

Breakout session F

Preparing for your next grade: are you application and interview ready? 

Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant; Former Senior Civil Servant

13:20

Lunch

13:50

One-to-one spot mentoring

Informal 10-minute sessions with a Civil Service Selection Consultant.

Available on a drop-in basis -- no pre-booking required.

Open to civil servants at all grades and from all departments.

Ideal for career advice and leadership insight.

14:20

Afternoon Plenary Address

Leading through change: embracing innovation during uncertain times

15:00

Final Plenary Address

Leadership in action: lifting others as you climb

15:50

Ethnic Minorities into Leadership Awards Ceremony

16:50

Post Event Networking Drinks