The Problem

We’ve identified a significant and ongoing challenge faced by Black university students across the UK: a widespread sense of isolation and alienation. Many students report lacking a supportive community or safe space where they feel seen, heard, and understood. As a result, they often navigate university life alone—frequently feeling like the ‘odd one out’ in academic, social, and institutional spaces.

Our Solution

Our mission is to address this challenge by building a strong, supportive community for Black university students. Through this community, our aim is to ensure that students feel truly seen, heard, and understood. We offer a range of initiatives, including academic conferences featuring PhD students, professors, and other scholars who share their journeys into higher education and research. We also host social events—such as picnics and karaoke nights—designed to foster authentic connections and a deeper sense of belonging.

In addition, we provide personal and professional development sessions to help students grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. To strengthen these connections even further, we’re introducing smaller subsections under the umbrella of Voices Empowered, called Voices 100. Each group will consist of up to 100 students, creating close-knit circles within the wider network. As we grow, we aim to develop multiple Voices 100 groups, ensuring that every student finds a meaningful and supportive space within the larger community.

Our research data.

8.5%

of first year undergraduate entrants in England & Wales are black. ( HESA, 2023/2023 )

10.3%

of black students drop out of university at some point. ( UPP Founcation, 2017)

52.5%

of black students don’t attend university after A-levels, due to lack of opportunities, resources and awareness.

Our main area of focus.

Fostering a sense of community.

We aim to create a tight knit community of students from ethnic minorities in university and allowing them a support pillar to aid them during their time in university.

Developmental Workshops

Additionally, we also aim to enhance the students soft skills, in multiple fields. Such as public speaking, communication and interpersonal development.

Conferences

We organise conferences where PhD students, university professors, and other academics share their experiences navigating the world of academia. These events offer valuable insights into their personal and professional journeys.

Networking.

We help students expand their networks by connecting them with professors, PhD students, and other academics. These connections open the door to a wide range of opportunities within their chosen fields.

Application form

Advisory Board

Joy Maitland, MBE

Ambassador

Atiya Sheikh