Where Black Ambition Ignites Global Opportunity

The home of leading platforms dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs, professionals, allies, and industry trailblazers.
Loading

PANEL: Belonging in the City: How to build a network that pays dividends

16 Oct 2026
THEATRE 2
Building a career in finance already means long hours and complex work. Often, it also means being one of the only Black professionals in the room, which brings its own kind of pressure. Real community in the City can change that, giving you access to people who’ve walked the same path, insight into positioning yourself for advancement, and support navigating environments that aren’t always easy to move through. Hear from Black finance leaders on how to make the most of networking opportunities, which spaces are actually worth your time, and why you shouldn’t limit your networks just to the UK. Whether you’re naturally outgoing or find networking draining, this session offers practical advice you can use to ease the process.
Moderator
Valerie Kontor, Founder, Black in Fintech & Senior Credit Solutions Specialist - RBC Wealth Management
Speakers
Rachel Shorter, Founder, Antilles Network & Group Finance Director - Cerulean
Charlene McIntosh, Associate Director, Corporate Operations Group - Macquarie
Edwin Lamptey, Founder & Co-Chair, CBERG & Equity Solutions Manager - Schroders