Black Excellence is primarily an employability networking event, but you won’t find employers at stands handing out leaflets and reeling off the usual spiel. Instead you’ll be invited to have real conversations with representatives from top organisations, whether they are on the recruitment team, graduate schemes or board of directors and take part in unique interactive session all aimed to give you the confidence to build your professional network and succeed in the graduate recruitment process.

Is this a fast track to graduate schemes and internships?

Yes and no. Remember this event is primarily an employability networking event, you will get first hand advice from recruiters on what roles they offer, the application process, and gain useful hints and tips of information that is not online in this unique experience. It will then be your responsibility however to follow up on the contacts you speak to and put all the advice you have learnt to complete the applications. It has been known for previous attendees to be fast tracked through an event partner’s application process, so make sure you update your CV to mention that you attended Black Excellence event, or include it in your applications.

Is there a charge for this event?

No, this event is completely free to attend!

Will there be a prayer room accessible throughout the event?

Yes, a prayer room will be available at any point of the event. If you require access to a prayer room, feel free to approach any member of our team who will be happy to guide you.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

You will need to bring your travel receipts with you in order to claim back your expenses and some form of ID with you (Bank Card, Drivers Licences, Passport etc.). Its also a good idea to bring something you can take notes on either electronically or written.

What will I be doing on the day?

We’ll group you with other attendees (usually a maximum of ten students per group) to work on team challenges, which are a great opportunity to showcase teamwork, decision making and communication skills. You’ll also participate in skills sessions, (don’t worry they won’t be testing you on anything!) with recruiters, who’ll give you the inside scoop on applications, interviews, assessment centres and how to create your personal brand so you stand out from the crowd.

What if I'm worried about the team challenge?

While we understand the idea of a “team challenge” can be a little daunting, we would like to reassure you that the session is absolutely nothing to worry about! It’s not there to judge you or make you feel uncomfortable, the purpose of the session to allow you a to have a practice run for assessment centres with the guidance of employer to help you prepare for the real thing. A good way to prepare is to either read our advice articles on assessment centres, (if you want to treat it like the real thing!).

Do I need to bring my CV?

No, you do not need to bring your CV. We will send your CV to the employers after the event. We will also be sending you a ‘how to get hired’ email after the event, which will include advice from us on how best to tailor your CV to the employers along with their application deadlines, so you will be all set to apply.

You will be meeting with a variety of professionals, therefore you should be dressed appropriately. We suggest smart casual. Ultimately, you feel more confident if you are comfortable. A nice shirt and a pair of flats will do!

How and when will my travel expenses be reimbursed?

Your travel costs will usually be reimbursed up to the value of £50. However, if your travel expenses exceed this amount we may be able contribute more, but this will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. You will be required to submit your travel receipts on the day and we will reimburse you after the event. Please bring with you the bank details for the account you wish us to pay the travel reimbursement into. Please note that you are asked to book travel tickets in advance, use student travel cards where possible, travel in standard class and use public transport. Taxi receipts will not be reimbursed.

What about the process after the event?

By attending Black Excellence you will have already proven that you are the type of applicant the employers are looking for. So, following the event, Jade and the team at targetjobs will be keeping in contact with you to find out how you are getting on with your applications and to offer our help and advice should you need it.

What should I do if I can no longer attend?

If for any reason you are unable to make the event, please let us know as soon as possible so that somebody else can benefit from this opportunity. You can contact the team by email: events@targetjobs.co.uk or by phone: 01491 828 915

Can I bring a friend?

We would love for you to recommend this event to a friend. However, they will have to go through the same process as you. We will have to turn away anyone on the day who has not come through this process - whilst we would love to have everybody, we are restricted on the numbers that we can invite.

NETWORKING EVENT

Aspire - exclusively for students of Black Heritage

Hosted by:

targetjobs

Pre-register for this event and be the first to hear when registrations open.

Aspire - exclusively for students of Black Heritage image

targetjobs has partnered with leading employers in the UK to host the Aspire event. An event for Black Heritage students to meet with some of the biggest organisations in the world who have open roles for you to apply to.

Pre-register for the Aspire event Autumn 2024! No matter where you are in your career journey, Black Excellence is the place to be, to meet with successful representatives of Black Heritage from some of the top employers in the UK! They are all ready to have open and honest conversations with you. Pre-register today to take a step forward in your career journey!

Don't wait! As we have limited spaces available, this is your chance to ensure you don't miss out on latest details, including event dates, agenda highlights, and any special announcements. We look forward to seeing you in the new year!

Event Highlights

Inspiring keynote speakers
Learn from senior representatives of the employers who have overcome challenges and achieved remarkable success. Gain invaluable insights and advice to navigate your own career.

Networking opportunities
Connect with industry leaders, recruiters and like-minded students! Make meaningful connections that can lead to future opportunities!

Skills workshops
Hear from the employers what they are looking for in a successful candidate, and evaluate how this may align with your professional development. Leave Aspire with the knowledge and connections to help you on your path to the boardroom.

Panel discussions
Engage in discussions about diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Explore the importance of representation and drive positive change in the working world.

Embracing Diversity, Driving Innovation

Not enough boardrooms currently reflect the society that we live in. Statistics published by the Parker Review Committee (which reports on the ethnic diversity of UK boards) show that, as of November 2020, just 124 of 998 director positions at FTSE100 companies were held by people from ethnic minorities. That’s only 12%.