The Global Majority Leadership Programme (GMLP) is a pilot initiative created as part of the University’s Access and Participation Plan (APP) and aligns directly with the institutional priorities on equity and inclusive progression.

It is designed to promote equitable access to developmental opportunities, contribute to improved progression rates for Global Majority students, and support participants to achieve positive graduate outcomes.  

With 51% of Leeds Trinity’s student population identifying as from a Global Majority background (Black, Asian, Brown, Mixed Heritage, Indigenous to the Global South and/or not racialised as White), the ten-week GMLP  will enable around 20 students from a range of undergraduate programmes to develop leadership skills by embracing their identity, lived experience, and cultural heritage.  

It will also help participants expand their networks and build their confidence, empowering them to thrive during their time at Leeds Trinity and beyond.  

Professor Charles Egbu, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University, said: “Having recently become the first university in Yorkshire to achieve the Silver Race Equality Charter, the Global Majority Leadership Programme is another example of our commitment to embedding equity and inclusion in all that we do.  

“Leeds Trinity is built on that common good, where everybody is respected, where we all recognise that individuals have talents, and we provide them with opportunities to grow and thrive. I am sure the students taking part in this programme will learn plenty of valuable lessons from it, and I thank the team working on our Access and Participation Plan for developing such a powerful initiative.”  

Professor Egbu, the first Black Vice-Chancellor in the UK, joined the opening session of the programme to reflect on his own leadership journey and lived experiences from a Global Majority perspective. The introductory session also allowed students to get to know one another before they embark on a series of workshops exploring themes including communication and influence, social capital, growth mindset, and wellbeing and resilience. 

Natalie Morrison, Access and Participation Plan Events and Projects Coordinator at Leeds Trinity University, said: “I was delighted to see how engaged the students were with the programme at this early stage. A key aim of it is for students to build networks and benefit from peer support while  developing a sense of belonging at the University, so it was great to see them connecting, as working collaboratively will only enhance their experience over the next few months.  

“As this is a pilot programme, we’re also keen to work with the participants to evaluate all elements to shape how the programme evolves, ensuring it remains relevant, impactful, and inclusive. We’re excited to see how the pilot develops, and how it positively impacts both students and the institution.”