We at the Centre for Research Staff Development, on behalf of King’s, were delighted to be hosts of the 10th Black and Minority Ethnic Early Career Researcher (BME ECR) Conference last month, a milestone event celebrating a decade of championing Black and Minority Ethnic researchers and supporting more inclusive research cultures.

Hosted by King’s in partnership with the University of West London (UWL), this year’s conference centered on the theme ‘Reflection, Recognition and Renewal’. Together, we reflected on the impact of the BME ECR Network over the past decade, celebrated achievements across the community and explored how we can continue to support the next generation of researchers.

Returning to the Great Hall at Strand Campus, where the conference first began, the event on July 10th highlighted how a grassroots initiative has grown into a nationally recognized platform for connection, development and advocacy. Over the years, the conference has provided a space where Black and Minority Ethnic early career researchers can share experiences, build networks, access mentorship and gain insights into navigating academic careers.

A key focus throughout the day was supporting researchers at the early stages of their careers. Through impact stories from former participants, panel discussions and interactive workshops, delegates heard first-hand accounts of career progression, overcoming challenges and creating opportunities for success in academia.  The keynote speech also inspired delegates to think ambitiously about their futures and highlighted the importance of representation, community and collective action in shaping a more inclusive research landscape. These sessions encouraged attendees to reflect on their own journeys while considering the possibilities that lie ahead.

We’d like to thank our panelists and those that shared their stories, as well as to our colleagues from the Careers Consultants for Researchers team, King’s Doctoral College, KCATO, EDI, and so many more who came to help out on the day to facilitate workshops and support the smooth running of the event.

The celebrations began the evening before on the 9th with the inaugural BME Early Career Researcher Legacy Awards, which recognized individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to supporting Black and Minority Ethnic early career researchers. We were especially proud that King’s College London received the Allyship in Action Award (Institutional). This recognition reflects the commitment of colleagues across the university who work to create an environment where researchers from all backgrounds can thrive. It also acknowledges our continued efforts to foster inclusive research cultures, remove barriers to progression and ensure that diverse talent is supported and valued. Receiving this award ahead of the conference was particularly meaningful, reinforcing the principles that have underpinned the BME ECR Conference since its inception: community, opportunity, inclusion and excellence.

A huge thank you to those of you who joined us for the conference on the day – we hope you found it as inspiring as we did! As organizers, it was amazing to see researchers, academics and partners come together to celebrate ten years of progress while contributing ideas for the future. The conversations throughout the conference demonstrated the power of collaboration and the importance of creating spaces where researchers can learn from one another, share experiences and shape positive change. As we look ahead to the next decade, we remain committed to supporting a research culture where talent can flourish regardless of background.