Ten SEMS students recently attended AFBELive 2026 in Birmingham, thanks to School-sponsored places that enabled them to participate in one of the UK's leading engineering diversity and inclusion events.

Hosted by the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers (AFBE-UK), this year's conference explored the theme "The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity", bringing together students, graduates, industry leaders and engineering professionals to discuss the future of the profession and how the sector can create more inclusive pathways for talent.

The event was particularly meaningful for SEMS, as AFBE-UK was co-founded by Prof Nike Folayan MBE, who is also a SEMS Visiting Professor. Throughout the day, students had opportunities to engage with senior leaders from across industry, gain career development advice and contribute to important conversations about representation and workplace culture.

Developing Professional Skills
A major focus of the conference was supporting students' transition into industry. During CV and interview preparation sessions, students learned how recruiters often spend only a few seconds reviewing an application and explored techniques for tailoring CVs to demonstrate relevant skills and achievements more effectively. Students were also able to participate in mock interviews with industry professionals, receiving personalised feedback to help strengthen their interview technique and confidence ahead of graduate recruitment processes.

Conversations That Matter
Roundtable discussions gave students the opportunity to explore workplace culture and discuss how organisations can better attract and retain people from diverse backgrounds. The discussions culminated in representatives presenting their group's conclusions to an audience of senior industry leaders, graduates and fellow students. SEMS students demonstrated both confidence and professionalism as they shared recommendations on creating more inclusive engineering workplaces.

Inspiration from Engineering Leaders
The conference featured keynote presentations from several distinguished engineering leaders. Students heard from Dame Judith Hackitt, whose independent review of building regulations and fire safety led to significant reforms in building safety across the UK. Sessions also explored emerging technologies, including nuclear fusion research presented by representatives from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA). Students learned how disciplines including robotics, materials engineering, electronics and control systems are contributing to the development of future energy technologies.

Another highlight was a fireside conversation with SEMS alunmi Dr Navjot Sawhney, founder of The Washing Machine Project, who shared the inspiring story behind his innovation and demonstrated how engineering can address everyday challenges and improve lives around the world. One message from Dr Sawhney particularly resonated with attendees: "Talent is everywhere, but opportunities are not."

A Student Perspective
Reflecting on the experience, MSc student Chidera Iwuanyanwu said:
"I left with far more than I expected: practical career advice, new perspectives on engineering and a deeper understanding of what inclusion should mean in our profession.

One of my biggest takeaways came from the CV and interview preparation session. We discussed how recruiters may spend just 6-8 seconds making an initial assessment of a CV. The lesson was simple: having the right skills isn't enough if an employer cannot quickly see how those skills match the role.
However, the message that stayed with me most came from Dr Ollie Folayan's closing remarks. Access gives someone an opportunity to enter, but equity ensures they have the support, recognition and voice to contribute meaningfully once they're there.

I came away motivated not only to become a better engineer, but also to become someone who helps create opportunities for others."

Looking Ahead
AFBELive 2026 provided students with valuable networking opportunities, practical employability skills and exposure to senior leaders shaping the future of engineering. Most importantly, the event reinforced a powerful message: creating a more inclusive engineering profession is not only about opening doors but ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive once they walk through them.