Black Employee Network (BEN) at Capita

Our Black Employee Network is a chapter of EmbRACE and currently has over 250 members. It was founded in 2020 following the abhorrent event and murder of George Floyd. We wanted to create a safe space for all Black colleagues to feel supported, understood and empowered to excel in their careers, without being limited or harmed by the effects of racism.

What do we do?

We work hard to provide an environment that enables and enhances professional and personal growth. Our members can get involved with networking opportunities, mentorship programmes and events that raise awareness about issues surrounding inequity, anti-Blackness and cultural understanding. We act as liaisons to management and the community at Capita and provide a supportive environment where they can expand their own skills and leadership capabilities too. The network also supports Capita with recruitment and retention initiatives and assists the marketing teams with any efforts for the targeted communities.

Meet the team

Adebimpe Makinde is the current Chair of the Black Employee Network and one of the Co-Founders.

“My motto and my commitment to members is this: I believe in creating the life others say is impossible, and I’ll hold that same belief for you.”

Adebimpe Makinde, Chair of BEN

The Network also has three Co-chairs: Andrew Egbenoma, Pauline Nwawudu, Ikenna Ekwuozor. And Obidike Ukaegbu is a Workstream Lead.

“I’m a workstream lead with the Black Employee Network (BEN) and I’ve seen it grow so much due the support we receive from the CEO and the EXCO, which is fantastic. I’ve seen many of our initiatives adopted by Capita and it puts a smile on my face seeing that we can all collectively make a difference – where there is a will, there is a way!”

Obidike Ukaegbu, BEN Workstream Lead