Last Monday (22/02), the University launched a network for Black alumni. An event was held over Zoom to celebrate its launch.

The University of Cambridge Black Alumni Network (CBAN), according to its webpage, will “work to nurture lifelong relationships” amongst Black alumni of Cambridge University.

The description adds that “CBAN is dedicated to the professional and personal development of its members. Central to all that we do is the belief in the value of education to the well-being of society, and a commitment to integrity, diversity, equity, and service.”

Cambridge degree holders and Fellows of the University will be able to join the network.

A representative from CBAN told Varsity that the network will offer social and professional events to create networking opportunities for Black alumni. The network, they say, was formed with the “vision” for Black alumni “across the generations” to be “celebrated, well connected and have a strong collective voice within the university community and beyond.”

They added: “our mission is to celebrate, connect and empower black alumni from the University of Cambridge. [...] we hope to assist graduates by providing a platform through which they can share their life experiences and successes with the alumni network and beyond, and learn and hear from others [...].Having a degree is not enough. Networks are vital and key in order for people to unlock opportunities and achieve their fullest potential.

It is often the case that alumni of minority ethnic groups, especially those of black descent, do not have equal access to such opportunities as do their counterparts from majority ethnic groups. We hope that the newly found black alumni network can help level the playing field.”