Opportunities for Black and South Asian heritage Students

We believe in the value of Belonging, Diversity and Inclusion and we aim to champion and embed EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) in all areas of our work.

Through Positive Action initiatives, we provide access to meaningful opportunities to our Black and South Asian students to maximise your chances of securing work experience, placements and achieve your academic potential.

We create Positive Action initiatives designed to supercharge Black and South Asian students’ academic potential, career prospects and personal development through access to:

  • opportunities to develop and finesse independent learning strategies and skills to maximise study effectiveness
  • meaningful work experience, skills development and networks with employers who have a genuine interest in recruiting diverse talent into their workforce (Placements and Internships)
  • bespoke workshops, talks and sessions to advance your personal growth

Take a look at the exclusive opportunities available to Student Success Academy Members below:

GRIT: Celebrating and Empowering Black Students

These bespoke sessions are designed to celebrate your strengths, amplify your voice, and help you get the most out of your Loughborough experience. They’re about creating spaces where Black students can connect, share, and thrive — both academically and personally.

Through the sessions, you’ll:

  • Build community and strengthen your sense of belonging
  • Explore fresh perspectives on shaping your university journey
  • Connect with opportunities, networks, and resources
  • Grow confidence in your own abilities and ambitions

Come along to be inspired, build connections, and unlock your potential at Loughborough and beyond.

THRIVE: Celebrating and Empowering South Asian Students

THRIVE: Navigating Dual Worlds is your chance to explore and strengthen your journey as a South Asian student at Loughborough University. You’ll step into a supportive, culturally aware space where you can reflect on your own experiences, explore the systems that shape both your home life and university life, and discover strategies to navigate them with confidence and authenticity. You’ll gain fresh insights into how cultural expectations and university norms can differ — and how to bridge those worlds while staying true to yourself.

Through interactive discussions, reflective exercises, and practical tools, you’ll learn how to make empowered choices, build resilience, and embrace new opportunities. This workshop will encourage you to honour your identity, define success on your own terms, and leave with a clear plan for thriving — both academically and personally — throughout your time at university.

Employer Insight Days

7 Students sat round a table, working together

Take your first step into the professional world with our Insight Days — an exciting chance for first-year students to explore a career sector up close and personal. Held in April and May, these visits offer an authentic glimpse into the working environment, letting you experience the culture, meet professionals, and see what really goes on behind the scenes. It’s a unique way to test-drive an industry, discover what excites you, and shape your career ambitions early on.

Beyond inspiration, Insight Days are about connection. You’ll meet and network with people already doing the jobs you’re curious about — building relationships that could one day open doors. Whether you leave feeling certain about your path or realising it’s not quite for you, you’ll walk away with greater confidence, clarity, and contacts to support your journey.

These opportunities are not paid — they’re not jobs — but we cover your travel expenses so cost isn’t a barrier to taking part. With experiences ranging from half a day to a full day, Insight Days are a small commitment with the potential for a big impact on your future. Places are limited, so secure yours and start exploring what’s out there for you.

"It was an insightful day that has helped inspire me to work with a better mindset. I would encourage others to take this opportunity when they can." - Creative Access Victoria and Albert Insight Day Student Attendee

Students sat in a row in a lecture theatre

To sign up to any of the opportunities below, please complete our sign up form. Make sure to also check the opportunities available to all years.  If you have any questions, please contact the team successacademy@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk

1:1 Peer Mentoring

We know that juggling searching for placements as well as studying can be a tricky balance, we offer the chance for Part B students to have monthly 1-2-1 sessions with a Peer Mentor who has returned from placement.

 Please note that we have a limited number of Peer Mentors available so you may be added to a waiting list in the event that we are oversubscribed with interest.

"My peer mentor was extremely encouraging and she game me very good guidelines on how to create a CV and also where to find job roles to apply to. She held me accountable which was very helpful and made sure that I was carrying out what we had planned to further myself on my journey to find an industrial placement"  - Placement Peer Mentoring Mentee

Opportunities for students from Black, South Asian backgrounds and Free School Meal Eligible

Hear about previous students’ experiences of being on placement

Transition Event / Challenges

A group photo of 10 people from a Transition event, stood with Numatic vacuums

Delivered by sector-specific employers, transitions events are designed to give you an introduction to the world of work within your industry. You'll gain invaluable insights through panel sessions featuring a diverse range of industry professionals who will share their career journeys, advice, and expertise.

To help you prepare for the job market, you'll take part in practical recruitment exercises; CV workshops, and assessment centre style activities, giving you an idea of employer expectations.

You’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate with peers who share your career interests, helping you build your professional network and develop the teamwork skills essential for success in the workplace. 

“Learning, laughing and lifting a Hetty vacuum-who knew a workshop could be this fun? Numatic International's visit to Loughborough as Part of the Future Talent Programme was more than just an insight into innovation; it was a reminder that the best careers aren’t just build with knowledge, but with joy along the way. Because when you love what you do, even work feels like a delightful adventure!” Engineering Transitions Event Student Attendee

Alumni Mentoring

A student stood with their Alumni Mentor

Receive personalised 1-2-1 mentoring from Loughborough alumni, designed to support your personal growth, academic success, and career development. Through monthly mentoring sessions, you'll benefit from the experience and insight of your mentor, gaining valuable advice, encouragement, and guidance as you navigate and plan for your future. This is a unique opportunity to build a meaningful connection with someone who understands your ambitions and can help you take the next steps with confidence.

Last updated: 23rd September 2025