Birmingham Scholar BlackChat

Birmingham Scholar BlackChat

Following the addition of Black IMD Q1 students as a separate cohort in the Birmingham Scholar programme, the Student EDI Team completed a mapping exercise in collaboration with the Birmingham Scholar Community of Practice to identify the major barriers for Birmingham Scholars and develop specific Black IMD Q1 enhanced offer based on that insight. Mental health was identified as a major barrier that Birmingham Scholars face and as part of the work to develop wellbeing and mental health tailored to supporting Black IMD Q1 students, BlackChat was piloted on the 29th of April 2026. BlackChat is a wellbeing event that creates an open space for black students to talk openly about their lived experiences and connect with other Black students.    

Students expressed their appreciation for having a space specifically catered to them and a desire to have more spaces like that at the university as feelings of isolation associated with sometimes being the only black person in their programmes was something they related to as a collective. 

Why This Space Matters  

Events like Black Chat give students the chance to speak openly about challenges that often go unspoken. They also highlight the importance of creating environments where all students feel seen, supported, and able to participate fully in university life. 

Listening to these conversations remind us how powerful community spaces can be. They help us understand each other better, challenge assumptions, and work towards a more inclusive campus experience for everyone.