About AFBE-UK
AFBE-UK is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering and technology. We empower students and professionals from ethnic minority backgrounds to excel and thrive in their careers. Through impactful programmes and initiatives, we aim to address the skills gap in the UK's engineering sector and inspire the next generation of talent.
About AFBE-UK
AFBE-UK is a not-for-profit organisation that challenges and inspires individuals from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds to excel in their fields and contribute positively to their communities through engineering.
We encourage BME individuals to study engineering, support those pursuing engineering careers, promote engineering in schools, and champion workforce diversity. We also advise organisations on fostering inclusive environments where minority professionals can thrive and achieve their full potential. Our aim is to enhance the UK's engineering talent pool while driving economic growth.
Leadership
Each AFBE-UK chapter is managed by an executive board led by a chairperson and supported by professionals from various engineering disciplines and levels of experience. These dedicated volunteers oversee daily operations and report to an advisory board comprising prominent industry leaders who guide AFBE-UK's strategic direction.
Annual opportunities to join the executive board are available. Interested members can email us at [email protected]. Learn more about our leadership team and their roles.
How we work
Our executive board meets quarterly to plan initiatives and develop innovative ideas for our programmes, focusing on education, mentorship, networking, and consultancy services. The advisory board convenes biannually with selected executive board members to review progress and strategy.
What we do
We build a network of UK-based engineers committed to promoting engineering careers, especially among young people from underrepresented groups. Our activities include:
Educational outreach:
Engaging schools and universities to inspire future engineers.
Networking events:
Bringing professionals together to share insights and opportunities.
Corporate consultancy:
Advising organisations on diversity and inclusion strategies and sustainability targets.
Explore our programmes and events for more details.
Our history
AFBE-UK was established in 2007 as a response to reports by the UK Business and Enterprise Committee and the Royal Academy of Engineering highlighting a skills shortage in engineering and the underrepresentation of ethnic minorities. Founded by engineers Dr Ollie Folayan and Dr Nike Folayan, the organisation launched AFBE-UK Scotland in 2011.
Originally known as the Association for Black Engineers, AFBE-UK evolved to represent all ethnic minority engineers and has become a respected voice within the industry. Over the years, we've hosted impactful programmes, seminars, and events, gaining support from industry leaders, government bodies, and community groups.
Our mission
Our mission is to showcase the talent within the BME community and support the wider engineering sector through:
- Raising public awareness of engineering opportunities for BME individuals.
- Advising policymakers on issues affecting BME engineers and communities.
- Providing networking opportunities to address workplace challenges.
- Encouraging young BME individuals to study engineering through internships, awards, and work placements.
- Addressing the gap between ethnic minority engineering graduates and those in the workforce.
- Promoting entrepreneurial and socially responsible engineering solutions.
- Offering leadership training, career development, and mentoring.
- Advocating for the inclusion of BME women in engineering.
- Fostering a sense of belonging in STEM among BME youth and their families.
Our Vision
AFBE-UK aims to serve as a representative body on issues affecting the careers of BME engineers and their communities, both in the UK and abroad.