The conference was launched last year at the University of West London thanks to initiatives by Associate Professor of Biomedical Science Dr Bernadine Idowu, who is passionate about increasing the representation of Black scientists within academia and industry.

It is important Black talent is nurtured and people feel empowered to study a biomedical degree, or any life science degree,”

Dr Idowu said.

They should feel included, see themselves reflected in the content, be taught by lecturers that look like them, and be encouraged to do a postgraduate degree if that is their chosen next step.”

The conference highlighted the possibilities and created a supportive and inspiring community. Members of its organising committee, who are all Black science students or recent graduates, are themselves powerful ambassadors for attendees.

UWL Psychology graduate Chanelle Anori, who is studying for a MSc in Clinical Neuroscience at University College London, gave a presentation on potential science careers.

Committee members really support and uplift each other. I enjoyed students asking me questions, being very engaged and wanting to know more about my journey,”

she said.

Jordan Bazoer, a first year PhD student at UWL, commented:

I particularly enjoyed interacting with attendees. This is the first time I've been involved in an event like this; both attending and organising it makes it special.”

Hillary Ojo, a recent UWL Biomedical Science graduate who manages patient pathways in the NHS, added:

It was satisfying to see how everything fell into place. I think this organisation can in time build a large network where we can really help young minds and reach people.”

Georgina Weston, who is a recent Medical Physiology graduate from the University of East London, shares this view and suggested future events could reach out to Black secondary school students too: 

Increasing awareness of the different pathways that you can take after a Biomedical degree or any degree within the sciences would help them understand their options.”

Winnie Lambo, who is a recent UWL Biomedical Science graduate, added:

A lot of people admitted they didn't know what they wanted to do next. We made it clear that it's OK not to know. I'm working as a clinical trial coordinator for a pharma company rather than staying in science, but it's all connected.”

For recent UWL Pharmacology graduate Khadijah Bah, who chaired the panel discussion at the conference, the experience of public speaking was new and confidence boosting:

It was nerve-wracking, but after the first few questions I felt great. I’m really delighted to have put myself out there.”

Bernadine added:

Overall, the conference was a great success, and we intend to continue inspiring Black Biomedical Science students in the years to come.”

• Find out more about studying Biomedical Science at UWL