Imperial Black Alumni Network

Alumni Affinity Networks provide a forum for Imperial College London alumni with a particular interest to share ideas, challenges and expertise, and address topics specific to their interest. 

The Imperial Black Alumni Network (IBAN) was established towards the end of 2022 and aims to: 

• support the personal and professional development and life-long learning of Black heritage alumni through peer-to-peer support, networking, and events
• build on the unique shared experience of Imperial alumni and promote the exchange of inspirational ideas, know-how, resources and insights
• leverage and celebrate the achievements of its community to inspire and support other Black heritage alumni and students to advance in their careers
• provide a source of support for relevant initiatives and programmes at the College 

Over the last year the Network has grown to over 350 LinkedIn group members, over 170 WhatsApp group members and has delivered a mix of professional and social events, including a Fireside chat with Eric Collins and a virtual Global Symposium with almost 100 attendees from around the world. 

Alumni Volunteer Role Description: Network committee member - Imperial Black Alumni Network 

As the network continues to grow, we are looking for at least two alumni volunteers to join a dedicated committee and help lead and contribute to the continuing success and development of IBAN.  We encourage alumni from all College faculties and industry sectors to apply and are particularly keen to receive applications from STEM alumni. Your unique skills and perspectives will enable the committee to reflect our alumni community and deliver a programme that meets their diverse needs. 

This role would suit somebody who

• is enthusiastic about their time at Imperial and proud to support the College and the Black heritage alumni community  
• is passionate about advocating for alumni and students of Black heritage and creating opportunities to support their professional development 
• has the time, energy and passion to join and will commit to further growing our thriving network 
• has relevant experience that would allow them to develop plans to enhance the delivery of the Network’s vision, and organise events and activities to meet the diverse needs of the Black heritage alumni community 
• is aware of the professional and personal development needs of people of Black heritage in their sector 
• can commit to a minimum of one year and join events/meetings virtually or in person based on UK timings 

What to expect

The success of the network is driven by the passion and commitment of alumni volunteers. The committee members will use their networks and expertise to plan events and activities that support professional development, lifelong learning and networking opportunities for alumni. We ask for a minimum of one year commitment from new members. 

As part of the committee, you can expect to:

• Collaborate with Imperial’s Alumni Engagement team and contribute fresh and innovative ideas to develop the Network’s events and activities
• Support the organisation and delivery of IBAN activities - including identifying a theme, shaping the key topics, identifying speakers, and facilitating the event on the day
• Use your network to secure speakers and venues where possible
• Create relevant content and contribute to the Network’s communication channels, including the LinkedIn and WhatsApp group
• Promote and attend events organised by the Network
• Attend regular committee meeting (virtually or in-person)

What are the benefits? 

• A fulfilling opportunity to share your skills, perspectives, and expertise to support and inspire others 
• A rewarding experience to lead and grow a new Network that supports the professional and personal development of Imperial’s Black heritage alumni  
• A chance to (re)connect and support the College as a volunteer
• An opportunity to advocate for Imperial’s Black heritage community and contribute to a thriving alumni community
• Meet, network and work with fellow alumni, industry leaders, and Imperial students and staff 

How to apply

If you are interested in applying to join the Imperial Black Alumni Network committee, please complete this application form by Monday 4 March 2024. 

Once all applications have been received, we will review and shortlist candidates. The shortlisted candidates will be invited to meet with the existing committee members before the final decision is made. We expect to let applicants know if they have been shortlisted in March. 

If you have any questions, please contact Kellianne Bartley, Alumni Engagement Officer, at k.bartley@imperial.ac.uk or Hazel Morgan, Alumni Relations Executive, at h.morgan@imperial.ac.uk.