our annual mentoring programme
We pair Black and Black-mixed heritage architecture students with practising architects and built environment professionals who volunteer their time and expertise.
Since 2022, we've supported over 250 students — and counting.
250+
Mentees supported
150+
Volunteer mentors
5th
Annual cohort
Only 1%of UK-registered architects are Black.
Not because of a lack of talent or ambition - but because of systemic barriers embedded at every stage: in education, in studio culture, in access to networks and opportunities.
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Our 1:1 mentoring bridges the gap between potential and possibility. It gives students something the profession has long struggled to provide: a trusted, experienced guide who understands the journey - because they've walked it.
From application to exhibition — here's what to expect
1
apply
Applications open every December.
2
get matched
Carefully paired by needs
and career stage.
February.
3
meet & grow
Regular sessions between mentee and mentor.
March - June.
4
celebrate
Annual student exhibition and celebration.
July.
mentees testimonials
"As a result of the exhibition, I had an interview with DMBA, and was offered a role as an Architectural Assistant!
I’m incredibly grateful for the POC mentoring programme and the opportunities it has brought my way. I never could have predicted that this would be one of the outcomes!"
Mofaramoluwa Oladipo
2024 mentee