Our Vision
A society where Black, immigrant and ethnically diverse people are recognised for the strengths they bring, connected to opportunity and empowered to thrive economically, professionally and socially.
About
A bridge between untapped talent and meaningful opportunity
Black Achievers Network is a Community Interest Company (CIC) building a member-led professional and enterprise network, starting in Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire and surrounding communities.
Why BAN Exists
Talent is everywhere. Access to opportunity is not.
Many Black, immigrant and ethnically diverse people bring strong skills, qualifications and ambition, yet face unequal access to the networks, information and relationships that make progression possible.
Relocation, redundancy, underemployment and starting a business can all affect confidence and wellbeing. BAN exists to connect people with practical knowledge, supportive peers and opportunities to progress and to turn individual achievement into wider community benefit.
Founder
Black Achievers Network CIC
Founder's Story
Why I started Black Achievers Network
Black Achievers Network grew from a simple observation: many people within Black and ethnically diverse communities have the potential to thrive, but often lack equal access to the information, networks and opportunities that make that possible.
Having lived and worked across different environments, I have seen first-hand how cultural transition, career disruption and limited access to community support can affect confidence, wellbeing and long-term progression.
I have also seen the strength, resilience and ambition that exist within our communities, often untapped and under-supported.
BAN was created to bridge that gap. Our approach is practical and member-led: we listen, engage and design activities alongside the people we serve, and we encourage members to share their own experience to help others move forward.
When people are equipped with the right knowledge, connections and support, they don’t just adapt; they lead.
Our Purpose
To equip Black, immigrant and ethnically diverse professionals, entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners with the knowledge, skills, connections and support to thrive and contribute meaningfully within their communities.
Our Mission
To provide professionals, entrepreneurs and people navigating career transitions with practical knowledge, mentoring, networks and wellbeing support, enabling them to progress, build sustainable businesses and contribute their skills to their communities.
Our Positioning
Black Achievers Network CIC is a member-led professional and enterprise network connecting Black, immigrant and ethnically diverse talent with the knowledge, relationships and opportunities to progress, prosper and contribute.
Our Values
What guides us
Achievement
We help people turn their potential, experience and ambitions into meaningful progress.
Inclusion
We create welcoming spaces where people are respected, heard and valued.
Collaboration
We work with members, employers and community partners to achieve more together.
Integrity
We act transparently, honour our commitments and remain accountable to the communities we serve.
Group Ethos
How We Grow Together
Membership is not only about what we receive. It is also about what we contribute to the progress of others.
- We learn together and share what we know.
- We support people without judgement and respect every journey.
- We give as well as receive.
- We celebrate progress, not only perfection.
- We use our skills, experience and connections to help others.
- We turn individual achievement into wider community impact.
Governance and Accountability
Accountable to the communities we serve
Black Achievers Network is a Community Interest Company registered in England and Wales. As a CIC, we exist for community benefit, and our assets and any surpluses are used for that purpose.
CICs file accounts and an annual community interest report with Companies House. We are committed to reporting our activity and outcomes openly, and to publishing evidence as it becomes available.
Be part of what we are building
Join as a member, share your expertise or work with us as a partner.
Connect. Grow. Contribute.