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The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity 30 October 2026

Table of Contents A Message from our founders

Welcome to AFBELive! 2026

Our Impact and Vision

About AFBELive

AFBE-UK

AFBELive 2026 – Programme at a Glance

Exhibition layout and exhibitors

Next Big Idea Competition

SME Reception

Introducing Innovation Hubs

Conference Judges and Speakers

Lunch

AFBE Live – Cocktail Reception

Conference Host and Entertainment

What we do

Schools

Universities

Professionals

Leadership

Organisations

AFBE Foundation

Our impact at a glance

AFBELive Sponsors

AFBELive Strategic Partners

Thanks to our Sponsors

Some of the AFBELive organising committee

Getting Involved

3 01

A message from our founders Welcome to the AFBE-UK biennial conference: AFBELive 2026. It is my absolute privilege to welcome you to The Vox in Birmingham for what promises to be an extraordinary day of connection, innovation, and strategic foresight. This year’s conference marks a profoundly personal milestone for me. Standing before you today, I do so not only with the familiar pride of being a co-founder of AFBEUK, but also with the immense honour of addressing you as the elected President of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE). My journey has always been rooted in a deep passion for process engineering, and bridging these distinct roles underscores a powerful reality: the vital principles of process engineering - efficiency, safety, scalability, and systematic transformation - are exactly the tools we need to navigate the rapidly evolving landscapes of our respective industries. The theme of this year’s brochure and conference Access to Equity is a call to action. We are living in an era defined by rapid technological disruptions, shifting economic demands, and an urgent mandate for sustainable practices. At AFBE-UK, our mission has always been to foster a vibrant ecosystem where professionals can share insights and cultivate resilience. By aligning our foundational goals with global engineering standards and rigorous process strategies, we are uniquely positioned to elevate our impact, optimise our operations, and drive meaningful progress. Over the course of today’s event, you will engage with visionary speakers, participate in high-impact discussions, and collaborate with peers who share your drive for excellence. I challenge each of you to look at the sessions ahead through a dual lens: celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that brings us together, while applying the structured, analytical precision required to scale your ideas into lasting successes.

4 02

Thank you to our dedicated organising committee, our sponsors, our Co-Chairs, and every attendee for making this event possible. I particularly want to pay tribute to Dr Nike Folayan MBE, whose grit and sheer determination has made this day possible Let’s use this day at The Vox to inspire one another, challenge the status quo, and engineer a bolder, more prosperous future.

Warmest regards, Dr Ollie Folayan MBE CEng FIChemE Co-Founder, AFBE-UK President, Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)

Welcome to AFBELive 2026 It is my great pleasure to welcome you to AFBELive 2026, our third national conference, here in Birmingham. It hardly seems possible that two years have passed since AFBELive 2024. Two years of growth, progress, challenges and, above all, learning. As we approach 20 years of AFBE-UK, I find myself reflecting not only on how far we have come, but also on what almost two decades of this journey have taught me. Our theme this year, “The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity,” is particularly meaningful to me because it reflects something I have come to understand more deeply over the years. When we started AFBE-UK, conversations about ethnicity and inclusion in engineering were far less comfortable than they are today. We have undoubtedly made progress. There is greater awareness, more willingness to engage and growing recognition that engineering must reflect the diversity of the society it serves. These are achievements worth celebrating, and many individuals and organisations have worked tirelessly to bring us to this point. But I have also come to recognise the limitations of inclusion without equity. We have become more comfortable talking about inclusion, but being included does not always mean being valued. Being invited into the room does not necessarily mean having a voice in the decisions made there. And being recognised for the work we do does not always translate into the resources, influence or opportunities needed to sustain it. These are not simply observations from a distance. They reflect some of our own experiences as an organisation. Over the years, we have enjoyed extraordinary partnerships and encountered individuals whose generosity, encouragement and commitment have been remarkable. But there have also been difficult moments. Times when we have felt alone, when the value of our contribution has not always been fully recognised, and when opportunities into which we have invested considerable time, energy and hope have not materialised. I have learned that partnership is about more than shared objectives or good intentions. It is also about mutual respect, trust and recognising the contribution that each party brings to the table, particularly when circumstances become challenging. These experiences have not diminished my belief in what we do. If anything, they have strengthened my conviction that inclusion may open the door, but only equity can bring about lasting change.

Through it all, what has sustained AFBE-UK has been its people. I cannot speak about our journey without acknowledging the extraordinary resilience of our team, our volunteers, members and supporters. Many have given their time, expertise, evenings, weekends and, sometimes, personal resources because they believed in something bigger than themselves. There have been moments of uncertainty, difficult decisions and occasions when we have had to rethink how we work and what we can realistically achieve. Not everything we have attempted has succeeded in the way we expected. Some initiatives have fallen by the wayside, some partnerships have not developed as we had hoped, and some wonderful people who were once part of our journey have since moved on. Yet each has contributed in some way to the organisation we are today. I am immensely grateful to those who have stayed the course, including my co-founder and partner in good trouble Dr Ollie Folayan MBE, those who have joined us along the way and those whose contributions helped lay the foundations on which we continue to build. But resilience, however admirable, should not be a substitute for sustainability. This is one of the reasons why the establishment of the AFBE Foundation represents such an important milestone. It is not simply about creating another organisation. It is about strengthening the foundations of our educational and community programmes, building structures that can endure and ensuring that the opportunities we create today can continue to benefit generations to come. Lasting impact should not depend indefinitely on the extraordinary sacrifices of a relatively small number of committed people. Our work has always extended across the educational and professional journey, from introducing engineering to children in primary schools, through secondary education, colleges and universities, to mentoring, professional development and leadership. We have continually reviewed and evolved our programmes because our ambition has never been simply to engage people, but to make that engagement meaningful and impactful. And as an engineer myself, there is something else I feel increasingly strongly about.

5 03

Inclusion and technical excellence are not competing ambitions. For too long, conversations about ethnic diversity in engineering have focused predominantly on access and representation. These remain important, but they are only part of the picture. We must also recognise the technical expertise, creativity, innovation and leadership that already exist within underrepresented communities. As our profession responds to extraordinary technological change, from artificial intelligence and data centres to advanced manufacturing, fusion technologies, and quantum engineering, we must ask not only who has access to these emerging fields, but who gets to innovate, who receives investment, whose expertise is recognised and who ultimately shapes their direction. I want AFBE-UK to be recognised not only for helping to open doors, but also for championing the technical excellence and achievements of engineers within our community. Equity is not about asking for special treatment. It is about ensuring that competence, contribution and excellence are met with the same recognition, respect and opportunity, regardless of who brings them. This is why AFBELive is about so much more than inclusion. It is about engineering, innovation, collaboration and the future of our profession. Today, we bring together students, apprentices, professionals, academics, business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators. My hope is that everyone leaves with something valuable, whether that is a new connection, a career opportunity, a fresh perspective, a potential collaboration or simply renewed confidence in what they can achieve. I encourage you to explore our Innovation Hubs, participate in the round table discussions, challenge assumptions and engage with people whose experiences may be very different from your own.

As we approach our twentieth anniversary, I am proud of what we have built, grateful for the people who have made it possible and perhaps more conscious than ever of the work still ahead. Almost 20 years of opening doors have taught me that the real work often begins once we are inside. We have made progress, and we should celebrate that progress. But we must not mistake greater comfort in discussing inclusion for the achievement of equity. Our next chapter must be about moving beyond conversations and commitments to creating environments where people are genuinely valued, where excellence is recognised, where opportunities are fairly distributed and where everyone has the chance to contribute at their highest level. Perhaps the greatest measure of our success will not simply be how many doors we have opened, but how many people have been able to walk through them, thrive, lead and ultimately open doors for others. Thank you for being part of our journey, for believing in what we do and for joining us as we look towards the future. Welcome to AFBELive 2026. I hope you have a truly inspiring day.

Dr Nike Folayan MBE FIET Co-founder, AFBE-UK

Welcome to AFBELive! 2026 It is my pleasure to host you at The Vox, Birmingham, for this edition of our biennial conference, and it is fitting that we gather at the close of Black History Month. Our theme, The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity, asks a simple question: once the door is open, what does it take for every engineer to progress and lead?

Today’s programme brings that question to life through keynote addresses, fireside chats, a panel discussion and sponsored roundtables. The Innovation Hub showcases five technology tracks, from Quantum Computing to Synthetic Biology, while the Future Leaders Forum and the Next Big Idea competition give students and early career professionals a stage of their own. For those preparing for their next step, the Career Transition Event offers mock assessments and a CV clinic. Our exhibitors and sponsors are here to meet you, so please do visit their stands. There is indeed something for everyone. I encourage you to make the most of every session and networking break, and to leave with at least one new connection and one commitment to action. Then join us for the evening celebration, with live music, street food and good company. Please help us spread the word. Share your highlights, photos and key takeaways on LinkedIn, Instagram and your other social channels, and tag AFBE so we can celebrate the day together and carry the conversation beyond the room.

I would like to thank all our amazing sponsors for their generous support and commitment to the success of the conference. We are honoured to partner with you to make a difference in the engineering industry and create lasting impact by embedding inclusion into engineering. If you require any assistance during the day, please reach out to any member of the AFBE team. We are on hand to provide any information or support you need. Thank you all for joining us. Your presence and engagement are much appreciated, and I wish everyone a fantastic experience at AFBELive 2026.

Akin Adegbenro CEng MIfSE Planning Team Lead, AFBELive 2026

Our Impact and Vision Since its establishment in 2007, AFBE-UK has grown into a nationally recognised organisation, building a strong community of engineers, students, educators, industry leaders and organisations committed to advancing engineering excellence and equity.

Through its educational outreach, mentoring, professional development and industry engagement programmes, AFBE-UK has reached over 30,000 beneficiaries and developed a network of more than 65 corporate and institutional partners.

As AFBE approaches its twentieth anniversary in 2027, our ambition extends beyond increasing participation. We want to see engineering talent recognised, technical excellence celebrated and individuals from all backgrounds given equitable opportunities to innovate, progress and lead.

These partnerships have enabled AFBE-UK to connect young people with engineering opportunities, support students transitioning into employment, develop professionals at different stages of their careers and work with industry to address barriers to progression and leadership.

Our vision is an engineering profession where access creates opportunity, equity enables achievement and excellence knows no boundaries.

The establishment of the AFBE Foundation in 2025 represents an important milestone in strengthening the long-term sustainability of this work. As a registered charity, the Foundation will support educational outreach, mentoring and community programmes, helping to create lasting pathways into engineering for future generations.

www.afbefoundation.org

www.afbe.org.uk;

About AFBELive AFBELive is a conference conceived by AFBE-UK in 2022 to showcase AFBE-UK’s work over many years in towns and cities across the UK. The one-day conference highlights the contributions of people from Minoritised groups in the UK through innovation. The conference aims to amplify the importance of diversity, inclusion and belonging by providing all stakeholders with insights into strategies that enable growth of our industry. The Engineering industry accounts for 33% of total UK GDP. The conference will bring together government officials, Members of parliament, CEOs, Engineering businesses, students and engineering professionals and stakeholders within the Diversity and inclusion space to highlight the importance of inclusion in all sectors of society. The event drives the dialogue, knowledge sharing, innovations and project developments around Diversity and Inclusion in the Engineering and Technology Sectors. This competition is open to any entrepreneurial or academic ideas that you would like to present. The focus areas of the 2026 conference include A Pipeline that Delivers Change Trends and Opportunities in Engineering Sustainability Inclusive Supply Chains AFBELive! 2026 promises a dynamic day of inspiring conversations, learning opportunities, innovation, networking and celebration, bringing together engineers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, students and professionals under the theme “The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity.” The conference will feature thought-provoking keynote addresses, panel discussions, interactive workshops, exhibitions and networking opportunities, exploring the future of engineering through innovation, sustainability, inclusive supply chains and pathways to equitable opportunities.

solutions to real-world challenges. Delegates can also look forward to dedicated sessions supporting career development, including CV reviews and mock interviews, alongside the SME Reception, which will bring entrepreneurs and corporate representatives together to explore business growth, partnerships and access to larger opportunities. Following a full day of insightful discussions and meaningful connections, the conference will transition into a vibrant evening cocktail reception, featuring engaging conversations, entertainment, global cuisine and opportunities to connect and celebrate. AFBELive! 2026 is more than a conference. It is an opportunity to connect, collaborate, celebrate achievements and inspire meaningful change across the engineering industry. The conference is held every 2 years and will gather some of the best minds in the industry. Aimed at Engineering and Technology graduates and professionals it will be an expo of AFBE-UK’s developments and their importance. With workshops and panel discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to look at innovations in different fields and understand why diversity is so important for a sustainable future. AFBELive has partnered up with some of the biggest companies in the industry to deliver a ground-breaking event and will culminate in a celebratory evening cocktail reception and global food stations, networking, and entertainment. AFBELive brings together engineering and technology professionals, employers, educators, students and policymakers to explore industry challenges, showcase innovation, develop talent and advance meaningful change. AFBE-UK also hosts its biennial awards, recognising excellence, achievement and contributions to diversity across engineering and technology.

One of the highlights will be The Next Big Idea, a Dragons’ Den-style competition providing a platform for students and professionals to showcase innovative, human-centred

About AFBE-UK Founded in London in 2007, the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers (AFBEUK) is a leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion across engineering and technology. Established by engineers Dr Ollie Folayan MBE and Dr Nike Folayan MBE, AFBE-UK was founded in response to the underrepresentation of people from ethnic minority backgrounds within the engineering profession and the need for greater visibility, opportunity and positive role models. The United Kingdom has a proud history of engineering innovation and achievement. However, the sector continues to face significant challenges, including skills shortages and disparities in representation, progression and leadership. According to EngineeringUK’s 2025 analysis, people from ethnic minority backgrounds account for approximately 14% of the engineering and technology workforce. Despite growing diversity among students entering engineering education (33%), this representation is not consistently reflected across the workforce, particularly at senior and leadership levels. AFBE-UK works to address these challenges by encouraging young people to consider engineering careers, supporting students and professionals throughout their career journeys, and working with employers and educational institutions to create more inclusive environments where talent can thrive. Through its mentoring programmes, school and university outreach, career development initiatives, industry partnerships, research, seminars, workshops and networking events, AFBE-UK connects education, industry and communities to widen access to engineering opportunities and support professional progression.

In 2011, AFBE-UK Scotland was established by Dr Ollie Folayan MBE, extending the organisation’s reach and impact across the United Kingdom. In 2025, AFBE Foundation was established as a separate registered charity, complementing the work of AFBEUK and creating additional opportunities to advance its educational and charitable objectives. The Foundation focuses on widening participation, supporting young people and underrepresented communities, and developing pathways into engineering and technology through educational outreach, mentoring and partnerships. Since its inception, AFBE-UK has developed strong relationships with leading engineering and technology companies, professional institutions, universities, government bodies and community organisations. Today, AFBE-UK works with over 65 industry and academic partners and has reached over 30,000 beneficiaries through its programmes and activities. AFBE-UK remains committed to developing a more representative engineering profession, unlocking talent, supporting career progression and contributing to the skills, innovation and economic growth of the United Kingdom.

AFBELive 2026 – Programme at a Glance Friday 30 October 2026 | The Vox, Birmingham The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity ACTIVITIES TIME

PROFESSIONALS / CORPORATE PARTNERS

08:00–08:50

Registration and Coffee (Foyer)

08:50–09:00

Message from the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Reindustrialisation) Blair McDougall MP

09:00–09:05

Welcome by Conference Host (Vox 3-5), Julianna Moats

09:05–09:10

Welcome by AFBE Co-Founder Dr Nike Folayan MBE (Vox 3-5)

09:10–09:25

Keynote Address - Dame Judith Hackett DBE (Vox 3-5)

09:25–09:30

Host Interlude (Vox 3-5)

09:30–10:15

Panel Discussion (Vox 3-5) Building the Pipeline from Access to Equity (Dr Iyke Onyegiri, Dame Tamara Finkelstein DCB, Loraine Martins OBE, George Imafidon MBE)

10:15–10:45

Fireside chat with Anca Raines, Chief People Officer at MercedesAMG PETRONAS F1 Team in conversation with Dr Ollie Folayan MBE, Co-Founder AFBE/ IChemE President (Vox 3-5)

10:45–11:00

Coffee Break (Foyer)

11:00–11:30

Transcend Showcase Leadership Through Transformation: Lessons from Driving Change Across Technology, Energy, Infrastructure and Industry (Vox 3-5) Dr Nelson Ogunshakin OBE Founder and Chair of AEO Group Panel, Olaitan Akinyele (AFBE Leadership programme), Susan Robson MBE, Women Engineering Society (WES), Dr Jeremy Crook OBE (Action for Race Equality), Mavis Anagboso (Harbour Energy)

11:30–12:30

Innovation Hub - Part 1 (Vox 3-5) • Aston Martin F1 -Additive Manufacturing • Microsoft – AI and Data Centres • GSK-Synthetic Biology • Sheffield Quantum Centre -Quantum Computing • UKAEA- Fusion Energy

12:30–14:00

STUDENTS

Future Leaders Forum (Vox 2) Abdulhameed Raji (Project Manager, Arup), Emaan Asif (Architectural Degree Apprentice, Grimshaw Architects), Jainna Bhalla (Project Manager, Leonardo), Nyasha Mutembwa (Graduate Engineer, Amey), Tom Smith (Asset Manager, Harbour Energy) Moderated by: Darrell Njogu Next Big Idea (Vox 2) Finalists: • Oluwafemi Ajayi (Programme Officer, Ashden Climate Solutions) • Chidindu Agbanelo (Psychology Graduate, University of Sheffield) • Temitope Pupuru (Doctoral Researcher, Robert Gordon University) • Prisha Vadhel (Mechanical Engineering student, UCL) • Ava Wanja Mwangi (Mechatronics and Robotics student, University of Sheffield) Judges: • Darren West (Technical Product Manager, RS Group) • Oyinkansola Adebayo (Founder, Niyo Group) • Professor Nira Chamberlain (AtkinsRéalis Technical Fellow for Mathematical Modelling) • Dr Muhammad Sadiq (Founder and Senior Technical Officer, Active Needle Technology) • Adrienne Houston FIET CEng (Director, EUROVACUUM LTD)

Lunch / Networking / Exhibition (Foyer)

AFBELive 2026 – Programme at a Glance

ACTIVITIES TIME

PROFESSIONALS / CORPORATE PARTNERS

STUDENTS

14:00–15:00

Innovation Hub - Part 2 (Vox 3-5)

1500–15:45

Roundtable (Sponsored by ECITB): What’s past is prologue – collaborating beyond barriers (Vox 3)

15:45–16:30

16:30–16:40

Roundtable: Roundtable: The AI Negotiating payrise Revolution: How to and progression at Futureproof Your work Career Host: Hiran Odedra, Host: Poggy Murray Head of Inclusion Whitham Chief and Social Impact, Operating Officer of Diversity and Founder Mercedes AMG F1 and Director of (Vox 1) OutEngineered (Vox 3) Coffee Break (Foyer)

16:40–17:00

Fireside Chat with Dr Navjot Sawhney in Conversation with Yewande Akinola MBE (Vox 3-5)

17:00–17:20

Birmingham Hub Showcase (Vox 3-5) AFBE Birmingham: From Schools to Careers- Building the Midlands Engineering Community Dr Helen Famodimu- Moderator Magda Cockerell – Technical Director, WSP Akin Adegbenro- AFBE Mentoring Jacqueline Darkwa-Impact Manager, Mission44 Sean Deer- Star King David Academy Birmingham

17:20–17:35

Closing Talk by Dr Ollie Folayan MBE (Vox 3-5)

17:35–17:40

Closing Remarks and Instruction for evening celebrations by Head of AFBELive Planning Team Akinkunmi Adegbenro CEng (Vox 3-5)

17:40–22:30

Networking (Main Hall), Getting ready for the evening (Vox 1) (vox 2)

18:30–21:30

Cocktail Party (Foyer)

Roundtable (Sponsored by Arup): Career Development Planning: Building Relationships with Colleagues and Managers (Vox1)

Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Reception Host: Imisi Joseph Facilitator: Surakat Kudehinbu

Career Transition Event (Vox 2)

Exhibition layout and exhibitors

Company

Stand Number

Jacobs

Enginuity

Mott MacDonald

Bechtel

IET

BAE Systems

6-7

Oracle Red Bull Racing

ICE

National Gas

Harbour Energy

Rolls-Royce SMR

Leonardo

IMechE

The Royal Academy of Engineering

ECITB

Skanska

Mercedes-AMG HPP

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team

Driven By Us

Next Big Idea Competition Sponsored by RS Group, The Next Big Idea is a competition taking place during the AFBELive! conference in Vox 2 from 11:00-12:30. NBI will focus on driving innovation in: • AI for Workforce Equity Design bold AI-driven solutions that reduce bias in recruitment, improve fair progression, and create measurable equity across the workforce. Think about how intelligent systems can unlock equal opportunity at scale. • Reinventing the Global Supply Chain How Do We Build Supply Chains That Leave No One Behind? Reimagine supplier networks to ensure accessibility, inclusion, and fair participation across global markets. What solutions can create economic opportunity while strengthening resilience and competitiveness? • Net Zero Through Supplier Transformation Develop innovative approaches that enable suppliers to achieve net-zero targets while progressing economically. Think about how sustainable supply chains can accelerate both environmental and business performance. • Designing Products for an Equitable World Create forward-thinking product strategies that ensure accessibility, affordability, and fairness across diverse communities and global workforces. • The Future-Ready Workforce How Do We Equip People for Evolving Global Markets? Propose solutions that align skills, digital transformation, and AI integration to prepare workforces for emerging industries, new technologies, and a more equitable future of work.

SME Reception

Connecting Businesses, Creating Opportunities Breaking down barriers, sharing industry knowledge and creating pathways to business growth The AFBELive SME Reception brings together entrepreneurs, independent professionals, SMEs and industry leaders to explore how smaller businesses can access opportunities within the engineering and technology sectors. Through insights from procurement specialists and industry experts, followed by interactive roundtable discussions, delegates will gain practical knowledge of how supply chains work, what larger organisations look for in suppliers and how to position themselves for commercial success. What to Expect • Expert insights into procurement, supplier requirements and business opportunities. • Interactive discussions with industry leaders and procurement professionals.

• Valuable connections with potential clients, partners and fellow entrepreneurs. • Practical takeaways to help strengthen business readiness and identify routes to growth. Who Should Attend? SME owners, entrepreneurs, independent contractors, consultants, professionals considering starting their own businesses, and larger organisations interested in engaging with SMEs. Aligned with our theme, “From Access to Equity,” the reception aims to ensure that more businesses have the knowledge, connections and confidence to compete, collaborate and grow. Leave better informed, better connected and better positioned for your next business opportunity.

Introducing Innovation Hubs Exploring the Future of Engineering

Where emerging technologies, industry expertise and the next generation of engineers come together. At AFBELive 2026, our Innovation Hubs bring the future of engineering to life, showcasing the technologies, ideas and breakthroughs that are transforming industries and shaping the world around us. Designed to inspire curiosity, encourage collaboration and spark new thinking, the hubs provide a dynamic space where delegates can engage with industry experts, discover cutting-edge innovations and explore the skills and opportunities emerging across engineering and technology. From Artificial Intelligence and Data Centres to Nuclear and Fusion Energy, Additive Manufacturing, Quantum Technologies and Synthetic Biology, each hub offers a window into some of the most exciting and rapidly evolving fields in engineering. Through a series of engaging, TED-style talks, delegates will hear directly from the organisations and innovators working at the forefront of these technologies. Beyond the presentations, there will be opportunities to meet the organisations involved, ask questions, exchange ideas and gain insights into the real-world applications of these innovations.

Additive Manufacturing

Quantum Computing

The hubs will also explore the transferable skills that connect different engineering disciplines, from problemsolving and systems thinking to creativity, collaboration and adaptability. Delegates will discover how their existing knowledge and experience could open doors to emerging sectors and career opportunities they may not previously have considered. More than a showcase of technological advancement, the Innovation Hubs reflect this year’s conference theme, ”The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity.” They invite us to consider not only what engineering can achieve, but also who gets to participate in shaping its future. By connecting businesses, researchers, students and emerging professionals, the hubs aim to inspire the next generation, foster meaningful connections and demonstrate why diverse perspectives are essential to innovation. Because the future of engineering is not just about the technologies we create, but about the people we empower to create them.

Synthetic Biology

AI and Data Centres

Fusion Energy

Our NBI Competition Judges

Darren West

Adrienne Houston (FIET, CEng)

Prof Nira Chamberlain OBE

Technical Product Manager, RS Group

Director Eurovacuum Products Ltd & Industrial Professor at the University of Birmingham

Mathematical Modelling Technical Fellow AtkinsRealis and Visting Professor

Dr Muhammad Sadiq

Oyinkansola Adebayo

Founder and CTO | Active Needle Technology Ltd

CEO | Niyo Group

Online Judges

Saad Mahtar

Olaitan Akinyele (MEI, CEng)

Elvis Tinago (EngTech, ARAeS)

Mechanical Engineering Graduate & 2024 Next Big Idea Winner

Project Engineer at TechnipFMC

Education Community Engineer at RS Group

Beena Sharma Co-founder & CEO at CCU International

NBI Competition Finalists Oluwafemi Ajayi is a climate and sustainability professional currently serving as a Programmes Officer with Ashden Climate Solutions, where he supports UK-wide initiatives in home retrofit, zero-carbon energy systems, and nature-based community resilience. He holds an MSc in Sustainable Engineering Systems (Distinction) and a BEng in Petroleum Engineering, bringing both technical depth and practical programme delivery experience across local authorities, the NHS, and community organisations.

Oluwafemi Ajayi

Oluwafemi founded ClimateProfessional, a climate education and capacity development platform reaching over 1,500 people daily across five social media channels. This platform is dedicated to building climate career pathways for youth and young professionals from the Global South. He also volunteers as a researcher with the Oxford Net Zero Tracker. Title: ClimateProfessional

Programmes Officer with Ashden Climate Solutions

Hi! I’m Prisha, a third-year Mechanical Engineering student at UCL. I’ve always been drawn to engineering that makes a real difference to people’s lives, which started at school when I designed and made a prosthetic arm for a peer. Over the past few years, I have completed multiple internships across engineering, operations and finance, along with being a debate instructor and STEM ambassador for school students.

Prisha Vadhel Third Year Mechanical Engineering UCL

At UCL, I’m a mechanical design engineer on the university’s drone team, where we’re designing and building a quadcopter, and I’m also leading a project to develop a water recycling system for a community in Africa. Outside of engineering, I learn indian classical dance and love experimenting with different art mediums! I first came across AFBE through their Accelerate 25 programme, where I was mentored by a design engineer at Mercedes F1, and it’s been such a supportive community to be part of. I’m really excited to take part in AFBE Live: Next Big Idea and can’t wait to pitch and hear everyone’s ideas!

Chidindu Agbanelo is a recent Psychology graduate from the University of Sheffield with an interest in innovation, technology and human-centred problem solving. Her interests span psychology, product development and emerging technology, with a particular focus on developing practical solutions to real world challenges. She is currently exploring Schoo, an idea focused on child safety and wellbeing through intelligent everyday footwear.

Chidindu Agbanelo Psychology graduate from the University of Sheffield

Ava Wanja Mwangi, a first year Beng Mechatronics and Robotics student at The University of Sheffield. My Next Big Idea is Tatua-IT. It is a peer-validated professional problem-solving platform built for Africa. It connects businesses and individuals facing engineering and technical challenges with certified, registered professionals, and then has the wider professional community validate every solution through weighted voting. I believe engineering should be inclusive and accessible and I am excited to share this idea at AFBELive!

Ava Wanja Mwangi First-year BEng Mechatronics and Robotics student, University of Sheffield

Temitope Pupuru is a doctoral researcher in materials science and biomedical engineering at Robert Gordon University, where her work focuses on the bio-extraction of biomedical-grade lignin from underused biomass streams and its application in biomedicine. She is the founder of Hagiazo Biotech UK (developing LignaBelle, an inclusive tinted sunscreens for consumers with darker skin tones), using purified lignin to eliminate the “white cast” of conventional mineral sunscreens while contributing broad-spectrum UV absorption, antioxidant activity and preservation support from a single plantderived ingredient. LignaBelle sits at the intersection of sustainable biomaterials, medical cosmetics and inclusive beauty, and is being developed under the UK Cosmetics Regulation pathway.

Temitope Pupuru doctoral researcher materials science and biomedical engineering Robert Gordon University,

Speakers Gallery

CONFERENCE HOST: Julianna Moats

Nike Folayan

KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Dame Judith Hackitt DBE

Co-founder , AFBR-UK here

HS2 Systems Engineer

Chair, EEF.

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH ANCA RAINES

Anca Raines

Dr Ollie Folayan MBE

Chief People Officer at MercedesAMG PETRONAS F1 Team,

AFBE Co-founder President IChemE

BUILDING THE PIPELINE FROM ACCESS TO EQUITY

Loraine Martins

Dame Tamara Finkelstein DCB

George Imafidon MBE

Dr Ikechukwu Onyegiri

OBE FRSA Global EDI Director Arup

Chief Executive, Royal Academy of Engineering

CEO, Motivez

Co-Chair AFBE-UK Principal Engineer at TechnipFMC

FUTURE LEADERS FORUM

Jainna Bhalla

HOST: Darrell Njogu

Nyasha Mutembwa

Project Manager Leonardo

FLF Host

Graduate Civil Engineer, Amey

Tom Smith

Abdulhameed Raji

Emaan Asif

Asset Manager, Harbour Energy

Chartered Engineer, Arup

Level 6 Architectural Degree Apprentice, Grimshaw Architects

TRANSCEND SHOWCASE: LEADERSHIP THROUGH TRANSFORMATION: LESSONS FROM DRIVING CHANGE ACROSS TECHNOLOGY, ENERGY, INFRASTRUCTURE AND INDUSTRY

Mavis Anagboso

Dr Jeremy Crook OBE

Susan Robson MBE

Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Europe, Harbour Energy

CEO, Action for Race Equality

CEO, Women’s Engineering Society (WES)

Olaitan Akinyele

Dr Nelson Ogunshakin OBE

AFBE Leadership Team

Founder, AEO Group

ROUNDTABLE HOSTS

What’s past is prologue – collaborating beyond barriers

Career Development Planning: Building Relationships with Colleagues and Managers

Hiran Odedra

Poggy Murray Whitham

Head of Inclusion and Social Impact, MGP F1

Founder OutEngineered

Negotiating Pay Rises and progression at work

The AI Revolution: How to Futureproof Your Career

AFBE BIRMINGHAM: FROM SCHOOLS TO CAREERS — BUILDING THE MIDLANDS ENGINEERING COMMUNITY

Magda Cockerill

Sean Deer

Jacqueline Darkwa

Technical Director, WSP

Star King Solomon Academy (SKSA), Personal Development/Careers Lead

Mission44 Impact Manager

Akinkunmi Adegbenro CEng MIfSE

Dr. Helen Omotoyosi Famodimu

AFBE Mentoring team Deputy Lead

AFBE Transition team

INNOVATION HUB

Additive Manufacturing: Aston Martin F1 Team,

Quantum Computing: Sheffield Quantum Centre

Synthetic Biology: GSK

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data centres: Microsoft

SME RECEPTION

HOST: Imisi Joseph Winning Senior Data Analyst and Chartered Engineer, JLR

MODERATOR: Surakat Kudehinbu Venture capital investor

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH DR NAVJOT SAWHNEY

Dr Navjot Sawhney

Yewande Akinola MBE

Fusion Energy: UKAEA

Lunch - Boxed Lunch. Enjoy a selection of freshly prepared dishes during our lunch break, featuring a variety of flavours and options to suit different dietary preferences.

Menu Mains Hungarian-style chicken goulash with sage gnocchi and rich paprika jus (halal chicken) Braised aubergine and black bean ragù with herb yoghurt (vegan*) Sides Steamed long-grain rice (vegan) Maple mustard-glazed carrots with kale and seaweed (vegan) Salads Smashed root medley with Puy lentils and roasted cauliflower (vegan) Seasonal leaf salad with toasted seeds and light vinaigrette (vegan) Desserts Chocolate brownie Lemon and yuzu posset with berry compote Refreshments Squash and water

Special Dietary Requirements A dedicated dietary requirements table will be available during lunch for delegates who have indicated specific dietary needs, including allergies and intolerances. Please visit this table to collect your specially prepared meal or speak with the catering team if you require assistance. Vegan (ve) options are indicated based on the catering menu, subject to final ingredient confirmation.

AFBELive – Cocktail Reception The Conversations Continue. The Connections Begin. The conference may be winding down, but the evening is just getting started!

Drinks & Delicious Bites – Enjoy complimentary refreshments and tempting canapés.

After a day of bold ideas, inspiring speakers and thoughtprovoking conversations, it’s time to raise a glass, celebrate and connect at the AFBELive 2026 Cocktail Reception!

Music & Atmosphere – Unwind with great music and an uplifting evening vibe.

Join us for an evening of great music, refreshing drinks, delicious bites and exceptional company as we bring together industry leaders, innovators, engineering professionals, rising stars and changemakers in a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere. Reconnect with familiar faces, meet new people and turn the day’s conversations into lasting connections. You never know where your next conversation might lead!

What Awaits You

Inspiring Company – Mingle with industry leaders, emerging talent and trailblazers. Connections That Count – Spark new collaborations, friendships and opportunities. Dress Code: Smart Business / Cocktail Attire One incredible day. One unforgettable evening. Endless possibilities. We look forward to raising a glass with you!

Global Fusion Join us for an evening of networking, entertainment and delicious global flavours! Enjoy a vibrant selection of street food, international dishes and sweet treats as we celebrate AFBELive! 2026.

Yorkshire Burrito Hut A unique twist on British comfort food, featuring Yorkshire pudding burritos with a choice of fillings: • Apple-glazed pulled beef or lamb with whipped potato purée, caramelised onions and rich gravy • Chicken tikka masala with basmati rice and cucumber yoghurt salad • Seasonal market vegetables with wild mushrooms, smoked cheese and sriracha mayo (vegetarian) Served with smoked sea salt roast potatoes (vegan). Pakora Fusion Enjoy loaded vegetable pakoras with chickpea, potato and spinach curry (vegan), accompanied by a selection of toppings: • Naan chilli bread croutons • Sriracha yoghurt • Fermented pink onions • Spiced chickpea crisps Katsu Club Asian-inspired bao buns with a choice of: • Katsu chicken • Katsu tofu (vegan) Accompanied by pickled red cabbage, sriracha mayo, fried vegetable rice and katsu curry sauce. Sweet Treats Waffles & Whippy American waffles served with soft-serve ice cream and a selection of toppings, including chocolate crumbs, Smarties, meringues, marshmallows and fresh strawberries. Churros Club Warm churros served plain or chocolate-filled, with chocolate dipping sauce or sticky caramel. Dietary Requirements There are vegan and vegetarian options available on request. Any other dietary requirements should have been identified to the organisers in advance. Please speak to your server about any specific requirements that you may have.

RUNNING ORDER 18:30 - 19:10 19:10 - 19:30 19:30 - 19:45 19:45 – 20:05 20:05 - 20:10 20:10 - 20:20 20:20 - 20:35 20:45 - 21:00 21:00 - 21:30 21:30 22:00 - 22:30

Steel pan playing and welcome by host and challenge cards BHM conversations with Isabella and Calbert Mingling with connection cards while enjoying the steel pan band playing Mixologist live session Challenge first winner announced and a Toast to AFBE Singer and Spoken Word Food and mingling + Announce challenge second and third winners DJ and Saxophonist Announce challenge third winner: DJ and Karaoke Closing Remarks & Vote of thanks - Akin Adegbenro DJ, Saxophonist and Dancing

Our evening host Ngunan Adamu BBC journalist, broadcaster, community leader and founder and CEO of iWoman Media Ltd and iWoman Academy CIC, peer-to-peer organisation set up to empower, entertain, explore and inspire women around the world. Throughout her extensive career Ngunan has worked on local, national, and international initiatives that address diversity, equity and inclusion, empowering women in Merseyside and beyond and training journalists in the UK, Africa and Asia, from Ethiopia to Bangladesh. Ngunan is also a prominent Scouse voice on the international stage, co-hosting the Eurovision podcast during the song contest’s phenomenal year in Liverpool, and more recently being celebrated as one of five Liverpool icons selected to name the new Cunard ship Queen Anne at its citywide celebrations.

Our Entertainment Isabella and Calbert As a Jamaican, Calbert’s thirst for knowledge of his ancestral roots combined with a desire to excavate and educate on positive stories about Black people’s contributions and achievements, past and present, has led him to collect an impressive repository of information from well-respected historians and credible sources. He DJs on Imperial Voice Radio, broadcast out of Fairfield House, the former home of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia. ‘DJ Obediah’s Roots & Culture Show’ is one of the station’s most popular, proudly playing reggae and music of Black origin and teaching Black history to a global audience. As an East African Indian with roots in Uganda and Zambia, Isabella was always curious to learn of how her people came to be there. This led her on an extensive and on-going learning journey covering the rise and fall of empires, colonialism and the resulting movement of global majority people around the world. Isabella was former VP of Education & Social Impact, and the most senior person of colour, in a global FTSE 100 business where she also founded and Chaired the EmbRace network for 5 years. She has spoken at events around the world on social justice, ethical leadership & youth engagement. Isabella is now Founder & CEO of the IM-Pact Kinship and part-time Consortium Director at the Black Researcher Consortium. Calbert & Isabella share a deep passion for reading, researching and teaching hidden histories. They have been together for nearly 25 years and have 3 children. As a family, they have travelled extensively and always seek out the history wherever they go!

Ekow Joe – Saxophonist Ekow Joe is a dynamic Ghanaian saxophonist, composer, and bandleader whose soulful sound blends jazz, funk, highlife, pop, and Afrobeat. With over 500 performances, international appearances in China, Oman, and Dubai, and collaborations with celebrated artists, he continues to showcase the richness of African music. He is co-founder of Kentos Music and official saxophonist for Ghanaian music legend Kojo Antwi, bringing passion, versatility, and electrifying energy to every stage.

Our Entertainment Blessed Poetry Blessed Poetry is a spoken word artist, singer-songwriter and writer whose work fuses soul, poetry and lyrical storytelling. Drawing from her Nigerian and Bajan heritage, she explores faith, womanhood and Black British identity with honesty and emotional depth. After more than a decade on poetry stages, she’s now carving out a distinct musical sound where spoken word and soul meet—guided by her mantra: “All I am are words, and all I have are words.” She is the recipient of the Wordplay and Flow Award for Best Spoken Word Performance 2025 and has performed at the UK premiere and exclusive screenings of Queen & Slim, Hackney Empire and the Royal Court Theatre.

Lo Williams – Singer Lo Williams is an emerging artist making waves in the UK R&B music scene. She is a multidisciplinary creative who is known for her vibrant personality as well as her hair! Lo Williams brings a fresh voice and authentic perspective to every track. Driven by passion and a deep love for creating, she began creating and recording in 2024, dropping her debut single Shimmer, drawing inspiration from artists like Raveena, Erykah Badu, Tank and the Bangas and Tiana Major9. Though new to the scene, Lo Williams is only now performing and posting videos of her original music whilst working with Birmingham-based producer DJ Kingpin. Currently working on releasing singles, Lo Williams is committed to growing as an artist and connecting with listeners one song at a time.

DJ Holy DJ Holy is a Birmingham-based UK Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Afro House DJ, music producer, and performer. Recognised as a leading urban multi-genre DJ in the West Midlands, he has gained national recognition through his BBC Radio 1Xtra (Africa360) debut and high-energy festival and club sets.

The Pantasy Steel Band The Pantasy Steel Band is one of the UK’s premier steel bands, bringing the vibrant sounds of the Caribbean to weddings, parties, corporate events, and celebrations nationwide. Their versatile repertoire ranges from laid-back traditional Caribbean music to lively steel pan arrangements of popular hits by artists such as Bob Marley and UB40. Alongside live performances, the band delivers engaging educational workshops for schools, universities, community groups, and corporate team-building events. With many musicians hailing from the Caribbean, The Pantasy Steel Band combines authentic musical heritage with outstanding entertainment and learning experiences.

AFBE-UK Programmes & Impact Creating pathways. Developing talent. Advancing equity.

01 | I nspiring and Preparing

01 | Schools Making Engineering Hot (MEH) • NextGen Our school outreach introduces young people aged 6–18 to engineering through interactive workshops, practical activities and encounters with relatable industry role models. MEH in England and NextGen in Scotland help challenge stereotypes, build confidence and make STEM careers visible to children from underrepresented communities.

02 | Universities Transition • Real Projects Transition helps students prepare for employment through mock interviews, assessmentcentre exercises, CV feedback and direct engagement with employers. Real Projects brings practising engineers and students together to explore contemporary technical challenges, emerging technologies and the realities of engineering practice. Introduced in 2025, AFBE Graduate Roadshows – Connecting Talent with Opportunity The AFBE Graduate Roadshows bring engineering employers and the next generation of talent together, creating opportunities for students and recent graduates to explore career pathways, connect directly with industry professionals and gain valuable insights into the world of engineering and technology. Delivered in partnership with universities and leading employers across the UK, these interactive events offer career advice, networking, industry insights and access to graduate and early-career opportunities. Through the roadshows, AFBE-UK is helping to bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering emerging talent to take their next steps with confidence.

02 | D eveloping Talent

03 | Professionals Mentoring • Roundtables • Chess Club Our mentoring programmes connect students, graduates and experienced professionals with industry mentors who offer guidance on career decisions, professional registration and progression. Roundtables provide a confidential forum for sharing experience and exploring workplace challenges. Chess Club develops strategic career thinking, negotiation and decision-making. Partnerships in action Examples of mentoring collaborations include Accelerate 25 with MercedesAMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, programmes with the Mission44 Royal Academy of Engineering, UCL and InnovateHER. These examples illustrate the range of pathways supported through industry collaboration.

04 | Leadership Transcend Established in 2019, AFBE-UK’s leadership work addresses the underrepresentation of ethnic minority professionals in senior technical, management and executive positions. TRANSCEND supports leadership communication, confidence, inclusive practice and progression through practical learning and peer discussion.

03 | C hanging Systems

05 | Organisations Partnerships • Research • Engineering Ethnicity Index We work with employers, universities and professional institutions on inclusive recruitment, workforce development, reverse mentoring, research and crossindustry engagement. The Engineering Ethnicity Index offers a framework for organisations to assess racial and ethnic inclusion and identify areas for improvement.

06 | AFBE Foundation Investing in future generations Established in 2025 as a separate registered charity, AFBE Foundation complements AFBE-UK’s work. It focuses on educational outreach, mentoring and widening participation, with the aim of developing sustainable pathways into engineering and technology for young people and underrepresented communities.

Our impact at a glance 2007

65+

30,000+

Founded

Industry & academic partners

Beneficiaries reached

Get involved Students, educators, engineers, employers and partners can help widen opportunity. Join a programme, volunteer as a mentor or role model, host an event, collaborate on research or become an industry partner. www.afbe.org.uk | www.afbefoundation.org

AFBELive Sponsors Gold Sponsors

Gold Sponsor Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team

Next Big Idea Sponsor RS Group

Eight-time Constructors’ World Champions and known for pushing the boundaries of performance, innovation and engineering excellence, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team represents the ambition, precision and technical expertise that drive the future of industry.

As a global leader in product and service solutions for industrial customers, RS Group’s support of AFBELive and their backing of the Next Big Idea (NBI) competition reflects a direct investment in recognising and celebrating excellence within our community.

Their support of AFBELive reflects a shared commitment to developing talent, championing innovation and creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers

Their commitment underlines a shared goal of building a more diverse and inclusive engineering industry, helping open doors for the next generation of engineers and innovators.

Gold Sponsor GSK

Silver Sponsors

GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at gsk.com

Silver Sponsor Harbour Energy Gold Sponsor Royal Academy of Engineering As the UK’s national academy for engineering, the Royal Academy of Engineering champions excellence and innovation across the profession, working to ensure engineering delivers for society and drives a sustainable future for all. Their support for AFBELive reflects a shared commitment to building a more diverse, inclusive and thriving engineering industry — one where talent from every background has the opportunity to lead and innovate.

Harbour Energy is the largest London-listed independent oil and gas company. We have a leading position in the UK as well as interests in Indonesia, Vietnam, Mexico and Norway. Our strategy is to continue to build a global, diversified oil and gas company focused on safe and responsible operations, value creation and shareholder returns. Across our operations we are committed to achieving our goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 with respect to our scope 1 and scope 2 emissions. In addition, we are well positioned to use our existing skills and infrastructure to help deliver the UK’s CCS goals and more broadly the country’s emissions reduction targets.

Silver Sponsors

Silver Sponsor Leonardo

Silver Sponsor National Gas

Leonardo is one of the UK’s leading aerospace companies and one of biggest suppliers of defence and security equipment to the UK Ministry of Defence. The company operates from seven main sites across the country, employing around 8,000 highly skilled people. Globally, Leonardo is among the top 10 world players in Aerospace, Defence and Security, with more than 49,000 employees.

As a key player in the UK’s energy infrastructure, National Gas plays a vital role in powering the nation and supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy future. Their support for AFBELive reflects a shared commitment to building a more diverse, inclusive and thriving engineering industry — one where talent from every background has the opportunity to lead and innovate.

Silver Sponsor Red Bull

Silver Sponsor ICE

As a team defined by cutting-edge engineering, datadriven performance and relentless innovation, Oracle Red Bull Racing shares AFBE-UK’s drive to inspire the next generation of engineers and build a more diverse, dynamic engineering industry.

As a leading voice in Civil Engineering, ICE plays a vital role in shaping the built environment and supporting the engineers driving progress across the UK and beyond.

This partnership brings the pace and precision of Formula 1 engineering to AFBELive 2026, supporting our mission to champion equity, opportunity, and excellence across the profession.

Exhibition Partners

Silver Sponsor Rolls-Royce SMR

Institution of Mechanical Engineers

As a global leader in power and propulsion engineering, Rolls-Royce shares AFBE-UK’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of Black engineers and building a more diverse, innovative engineering industry. This partnership brings world-class engineering expertise to AFBELive 2026, supporting our mission to champion equity, opportunity and excellence across the profession.

Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains

Bronze Sponsors

Bronze Sponsor IET

Bronze Sponsor Mott MacDonald

The IET is Europe’s largest professional membership body for engineers and technologists with over 156,000 members across 148 countries worldwide. Our vision is to engineer a better world and we use our influence, knowledge and expertise across the globe to champion the role engineering and technology plays in the future of our society and our planet.

Mott MacDonald is an employee-owned global engineering, management, and development consultancy with over 19,000 people providing world-leading expertise.

As well as supporting and developing engineers throughout all stages of their career, we influence industry to embed engineering excellence and professionalism into everything they do. We are trusted to develop and share impartial knowledge that advises and supports the advancement of engineering related policy, and we help wider society better understand some of the most pressing global engineering challenges such as climate change. As a registered charity, we strive to inspire the next generation to embark on a career in engineering and technology, and do this through a range of educational programmes and public relations and engagement campaigns.

Our purpose is to improve society by considering social outcomes in everything we do, relentlessly focusing on excellence and digital innovation, transforming our clients’ businesses, our communities and employee opportunities. We solve social, environmental, and economic challenges, help governments and businesses plan, deliver, and sustain their strategic goals and respond to humanitarian and natural emergencies. Around the world, our engineering, development, and management specialists are pushing boundaries to make positive differences for our clients and their customers: combining digital technology and sector insights to transform delivery and outcomes; tackling climate change by cutting carbon and developing resilience; and making sure projects are socially inclusive: we know from experience that inclusive projects deliver the best results for everyone, our clients too. We’re aware of the lasting and potentially far-reaching impacts of our work, which encompasses new infrastructure for transport, energy, water and the built environment, improvements to existing systems, and education, health, and social development projects – all enriching daily life for users. For every project, we provide the blend of talent needed to create the right result: appropriate, reliable, cost- and resource-efficient, safe and swift to deliver and operate.

Bronze Sponsor BECHTEL

Engineering. Management. Development.

A company shaping global infrastructure and the future of engineering — now part of a space dedicated to driving real change in the industry.

Bronze Sponsors

Bronze Sponsor Jacobs

Bronze Sponsor Net Zero Technology Centre

Jacobs is a global professional services company that plans, designs and delivers complex infrastructure, advanced technologies and critical systems that support how people live, work and move. We challenge what’s accepted and redefine what’s possible to create lasting, positive impact.

NZTC works at the forefront of the energy transition, accelerating the technologies and talent needed to deliver a net zero future. Their support for AFBELive reflects a shared commitment to building a more diverse and inclusive engineering workforce to drive that transition forward.

Bronze Sponsor BAE Systems

Bronze Sponsor Enginuity

As a global leader in defence, aerospace and security, BAE Systems builds some of the most advanced engineering in the world and its people are central to that. Their support for AFBELive reflects a shared commitment to building a more diverse and inclusive engineering workforce, one that draws on the full range of talent to solve tomorrow’s challenges.

Enginuity is committed to strengthening the UK’s engineering and manufacturing sectors by developing skills, supporting innovation, and helping businesses build the workforce of the future.

Bronze Sponsor SKANSKA Skanska is one of the world’s leading project development and construction companies, driving sustainable and inclusive change across the infrastructure they build. Their support for AFBELive reflects a shared commitment to opening doors for underrepresented talent in engineering and building a more diverse pipeline for the future of the industry.

Their dedication to nurturing talent and driving industry growth aligns perfectly with AFBELive’s mission to inspire the next generation of engineers, innovators and STEM leaders.

Bronze Sponsor Divrsity by automatically turning employee feedback into actionable, data-driven inclusion strategies. Their support for AFBELive reflects a shared belief in using real insight to build workplaces — and an industry — where everyone can belong and thrive.

Roundtable Sponsors

Roundtable Sponsor ARUP

Roundtable Sponsor ECITB

As an independent firm of designers, planners, engineers and technical specialists working across the built environment, Arup brings a wealth of expertise and a strong commitment to inclusive, sustainable engineering.

As the employer-led skills, standards and qualifications body for Britain’s engineering construction workforce, ECITB works to attract, develop and qualify diverse talent across the industry investing tens of millions each year to build the skills needed to deliver critical infrastructure and net zero.

Innovation Hub Sponsors

Innovation Hub Sponsor Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team

Innovation Hub Sponsor Microsoft

The team is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, not just within their workforce, but also among fans, partners, and the broader global community. This commitment aligns with their pursuit of excellence both on and off the track, celebrating and supporting a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Microsoft enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. We believe that when we empower every person and every organisation on the planet to achieve more, we empower the world. Diversity and inclusion are critical for realising this mission. By weaving D&I into everything we do, we spark the innovation necessary to drive business results. When employee lived experience is positive, everything else gets better, including customer experiences and product innovation. We work to foster a tech community made up of people with many different experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds, and we partner with suppliers who are committed to increasing diversity throughout their organisations

Innovation Hub Sponsor UK Atomic Energy Authority

Innovation Hub Sponsor Sheffield Quantum Centre

As the UK’s national fusion research organisation, UKAEA sits at the heart of one of engineering’s biggest challenges — creating clean, limitless energy here on Earth. Expect insight into the science, engineering, and careers behind this next-generation power source.

The Sheffield Quantum Centre is a University-wide collaboration of over 50 researchers developing quantum technologies with the potential to revolutionise computing, communication, sensing and imaging.

The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, tracing their legacy back to 1922 at the French Grand Prix, brings a rich heritage and fresh perspective to the sport, determined to shake up the order and compete at the highest level.

Our device hardware is built using III-V semiconductors and we have world-leading capabilities in crystal growth, nanometre scale device fabrication and device physics research. Wider activities include complementary theory and software development. 37

AFBELive Strategic Partners We would like to thank our AFBELive strategic partners

Thanks to our Sponsors

Some of the AFBELive organising committee

Akin Adegbenro

Zainab Adigun

Lead Systems Engineer

Senior Structural Engineer

Onyinye Iloanugo

Oduwa Agboneni Technical Project Manager at Infinitesima Ltd

Dr Khadijat Olorunlambe Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering University of Birmingham

Asseinam Akrofi-Ayesu Chemical & Energy Engineering Master’s Student University of Leeds

Alen Erkimisyan MEng Mechanical Engineering at the University of Sheffield | Application Engineering Placement at Cummins Turbo Technologies

Data Engineer, Baillie Gifford

Dr Helen Omotoyosi Famodimu Handover & Delivery Engineer Eiffage Geníe Civil

Denis Pinto Managing Director & Owner, Caledonian Flow Systems Limited

Eseosa Deborah Esla Energy Engineer at Cotopaxi

Aaron Yalley AFBE Volunteer Marketing Team Graduate Engineer

Euton J Gordon Chemical Process Engineer (Retired) AFBE Career Transition Team Lead

Oluwaseun Orimogunje Technical Development & Support Engineer at Dumarey Green Power

Darrell Njogu Fleet planning specialist at BAE Systems

Vera Dogo Graduate Engineer at TechnipFMC Volunteer for AFBELive Planning Team

Get Involved with AFBE-UK Connect. Develop. Inspire. Make an Impact. Since 2007, AFBE-UK has been connecting students, professionals, employers and communities to widen access to engineering and technology, support career progression and champion a more inclusive industry. Working with over 65 industry and academic partners, we create opportunities for people at every stage of their careers to connect, develop and make a difference. Why Get Involved? Build Your Network Connect with engineers, industry leaders and employers through conferences, networking events and professional communities. Develop Your Career Access mentoring, professional development, career opportunities and industry insights to support your progression. Inspire the Next Generation Volunteer, mentor or support our schools and university outreach programmes, helping young people discover opportunities in engineering and technology. Raise Your Profile Share your expertise, build professional relationships and contribute to conversations shaping the future of engineering. Influence Change Help address barriers to participation, progression and leadership while promoting equity and inclusion across the industry. Discover Opportunities Access industry events, volunteering opportunities, career insights and initiatives delivered with our partners. Frequently Asked Questions Who can get involved? Everyone! AFBE-UK welcomes students, engineers, technologists, educators, business leaders and anyone passionate about engineering and creating opportunities for others. Membership and participation are open to people of all backgrounds. Why does AFBE-UK exist? Despite progress, ethnic minority communities remain underrepresented in parts of the engineering profession, particularly in senior leadership. AFBE-UK works to bridge the gap between education and employment, support career progression and create a more equitable industry. Our work complements that of professional engineering institutions. How can I make a difference? Become a member, volunteer, mentor, sponsor an event, support our programmes or partner with us. AFBE-UK is a notfor-profit organisation supported by partnerships, sponsorship, grants, donations and volunteers. Our registered charity, the AFBE Foundation, also supports educational outreach and opportunities for underrepresented communities. Be Part of the Change Whatever your background, career stage or industry, you can help shape a future where engineering talent is recognised, opportunities are accessible and everyone has the chance to thrive. Join us. Partner with us. Make a difference. www.afbe.org.uk | info@afbe.org.uk