Elevate careers programme
Black students can accelerate their careers and employability with our Elevate programme.
Elevate careers programme for Black students at Kingston University
Elevate is our careers and employability accelerator programme for students from Black British, African, Caribbean or Black mixed heritage.
If you are a student, find out how you can benefit from the programme. Or, if you are an employer or professional, discover the ways you can support Black students.
About Elevate
Elevate was launched in 2020 to address the degree awarding gap and disparities in graduate outcomes between Black and White students.
The awarding gap and disparities persist across higher education, despite the students’ entry qualifications and course studied. At Kingston University in 2021-2022, there was a 25.4% gap between White and Black students getting a first or 2:1 degree.
Our Elevate programme aims to increase the networking, mentoring and employment opportunities available to Black students and graduates.
Elevate has been awarded several accolades for the work it has done for equality, diversity and inclusion in higher education and industry.
How students can get involved with Elevate
Elevate offers students the chance to:
- discover employer opportunities such as insight days, mentoring, work experience, placements, paid internships and graduate jobs
- join events with alumni and other professionals
- become part of a community of students, alumni, staff and employers.
What our students say about Elevate
Hear from our student Elevate members to find out more about the programme.
I was excited when the Elevate team emailed me about the opportunity to join a Marsh McLennan placement. The application process was straightforward. I am glad I got selected, as it give me the chance to have practical experience.
The Elevate events I attended were informative. I got to see people who were successful in careers I was considering going into after completing my degree.
How professionals and employers can get involved with Elevate
We work with organisations and employers committed to racial equity. We also build strategic relationships with influential individuals in the Black community.
Here are some ways employers and professionals can get involved with the Elevate programme:
- Share insights on a Q&A panel event (online or on campus)
- Host a workshop on transferable skills (online or on campus)
- Provide insight days, mentorship, work shadowing or experience
- Mentor a Black student as part of our Beyond Barriers student mentoring scheme
- Offer placements, from micro ones of 2–6 weeks or longer
- Provide paid internships
- Offer graduate roles
- Become an ELEVATE Employer Partner.
Interested in becoming an employer partner with Elevate?
We'd love to hear from you! Get in touch if you are interested in getting involved or becoming an employer partner with Elevate.
Elevate networking events
Elevate runs a series of networking events to connect students, staff, alumni and professionals. Networking events build a community and increase a sense of belonging.
Themes covered at our Elevate networking events
Awards won by Elevate
Stay connected with Elevate
Follow us on LinkedIn (@kuelevate) and Instagram (@ku_elevate) to stay connected with all things Elevate.
Got any questions or want more information? Get in touch with our Elevate team via email.
