PwC and UK Black Tech join up to drive diversity in technology sector

  • FinTech StartUps , IT Innovations , Infrastructure
  • 25.10.2018 09:54 am

PwC and UKBlackTech have joined forces in a drive to encourage greater diversity in the technology sector and to inspire more young people from a range of backgrounds to pursue careers in technology.

The partnership will see PwC and UKBlackTech, which was founded in 2016 by a group of technology leaders passionate about increasing black and ethnic representation in  the UK technology industry, hosting Tech Insight and networking events across the country. The interactive events will be open to all, and give attendees real life examples of how technology is key to future business growth. The aim is to inspire young people by giving them access to role models already working in technology, and an opportunity to discuss career opportunities in the sector.

The pairing will also use PwC’s existing regional schools network to run a range of digital and business skills workshops with young people across the UK to educate, inspire and enthuse around a career in technology. PwC has a number of other initiatives aimed at widening the future talent pool in technology, including Tech Degree apprenticeships in five cities across the UK and the Tech She Can Charter.

PwC will also mentor UKBlackTech, advising them on ways to grow their organisation and reach.

Sunil Patel, Chief Operating Officer, Technology & Investments at PwC, said:

"Improving diversity in the tech sector is a no brainer - providing a wider pool of talent and ideas, ensuring the products and services of tomorrow work for everyone, and opening up opportunity to more people. We're excited to be working with UKBlack to help make this happen. Collaboration is key to having more impact.

“Technology is already central in driving change across all industries and, in order to think differently and thrive, companies need to have the best talent at their table. This means people of all backgrounds - diversity drives innovation.

“In order to improve the diversity of people working in technology, businesses have a responsibility to ensure opportunities are available for all. We hope to do this by working with UK Black Tech by shining a light on the opportunities available.”

Mark Martin, Founder at UK Black Tech, said:

“We are on a mission to make the UK technology sector the most diverse in the world, and are excited that PwC want to be a part of this courageous journey. Since launching 18 months ago, UKBlackTech has made a major impact on the tech sector through being visible and signposting opportunities.

“We want to be the agent of change for our future generation and ensure that tech products, services and companies reflect us all. We are positioned perfectly to make this happen because of the connections we have across the sector.

“This partnership will be the start of something great and we look forward to travelling around the UK to teach, inspire and connect communities to the digital skills and digital jobs available on their doorstep.”

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