Innovative Mini MBA Qualification for Black Entrepreneurs unveiled
SOAS University of London and the Black British Initiative (BBI) have announced the launch of a new “mini” Master of Business Administration (MBA) course specifically designed to support underserved black entrepreneurs. The qualification, named MBA 30, will enrol its first cohort in September 2023 and aims to address the challenges and disadvantages faced by black people entering the world of business.
The MBA 30 has been curated to provide black entrepreneurs with the necessary skills, knowledge, and networks to thrive in their respective industries. The course curriculum encompasses a wide range of essential business areas, including leadership, marketing, decision-making, market and trend analysis, and strategy.
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Stephen Lawrence's passing, the MBA 30 programme will enrol 30 students per cohort. The first cohort will commence their studies in September. The MBA 30 is sponsored by industry-leading organizations such as NatWest, Vodafone, Clyde and Co, Paramount Global, Nobody's Child, Eco Age, and pHKind, amongst others.
The launch event, which took place on June 8, featured talks from two prominent entrepreneurs who shared their personal business challenges and how the MBA 30 will empower students to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, Lord Dr Michael Hastings, Chair of SOAS University of London and Chair of BBI, delivered a keynote address, highlighting the significance of this initiative.
Lord Dr Michael Hastings said: “This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant step toward levelling the playing field for black entrepreneurs in the UK. The MBA 30 aims to create a transformative learning experience that equips participants with the tools and networks necessary to succeed in the competitive business landscape. Together, SOAS University of London and BBI strive to empower black entrepreneurs and shape a more inclusive future.”
Founder & CEO of Black British Initiative, Darren Miller adds: “Entrepreneurs play a significant societal role and are a source of creativity, innovation and progressiveness in all commercial sectors. One of the greatest challenges facing Black entrepreneurs is a lack of access to essential business networks and funding capital, limiting aspiration, stunting growth, and preventing the deep reservoirs of Black entrepreneurial talent from being realised - wasteful and counterproductive for society at large.”
NatWest Managing Director and Head of Business Banking, Andrew Harrison, said “At NatWest, we’re committed to supporting Black entrepreneurial talent and supporting the next generation of Black Business Owners which is why we are delighted to be working with BBI in Partnership with Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation & SOAS University of London on MBA 30 to drive positive change.”
Vinod Kumar, CEO of Vodafone Business, said: “The MBA 30 initiative aligns closely to Vodafone’s ‘Inclusion for All’ strategy pillar. We are proud to sponsor and champion diverse talent in Business. I look forward to seeing Black entrepreneurs being equipped with the skills and capabilities to thrive in their field and take their businesses to new heights.”
Prospective students can register their interest in the mini-MBA by emailing mba@blackbritishinitiative.com.
Pictured above: Lord Dr Michael Hastings, Chair of both SOAS University of London, and Black British Initiative, addresses the audience the launch event.
Pictured above: Darren Miller, Founder and CEO of Black British Initiative, speaks at the MBA 30 launch event.