Scotland stepped into the spotlight on April 14th as the second edition of the IAmBlack Conference transformed The Technology and Innovation Centre at the University of Strathclyde into a vibrant space of bold ideas, professional development and industry-shaping conversations.
The 2025 IAmBlack conference cemented its place as one of Scotland’s most influential platforms for talent development, innovation and cross-sector collaboration. From Aberdeen to Ayrshire, Stirling to St Andrews, more
than 600 professionals, entrepreneurs, and students gathered for a full-day experience dedicated to reshaping
the future of work in Scotland’s evolving business and corporate landscape.
“This is about building something transformative—right here in Scotland,” said Enoch Adeyemi, founder of the
IAmBlack Conference.
“We’re creating a platform where talent meets opportunity and where the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and
builders can thrive.”
This year’s event emphasized action and impact. Attendees engaged directly with over 30 progressive employer brands,
all actively invested in building a more inclusive, dynamic and forward-looking Scottish economy.
From keynote speeches and panel discussions to skill-building masterclasses and real-time recruitment
opportunities, the conference tackled the pressing issues and exciting prospects that define today’s working world.
Topics ranged from workplace leadership, public speaking, to building wealth and driving innovation across sectors.
“We were proud to support this forward-thinking initiative again,” said Laura Vaughan, Head of Protection at Lloyds
Banking Group.
“The talent emerging across Scotland is remarkable, and events like IAmBlack Conference are essential in bringing
that potential to the forefront.”
The energy throughout the day was palpable. Delegates came ready to connect, learn and contribute. From networking with recruiters and participating in breakout sessions, to sharing insights and experiences that sparked fresh ideas. The event trended online under the hashtag #IAB2025, as inspiring moments and standout takeaways spread across digital platforms.
For too long, conversations about opportunity and leadership in the UK have been overly centralized. The IAmBlack Conference is part of a growing movement to broaden the focus, amplifying what’s possible across Scotland’s vibrant regions and sectors. While the day may have come to a close, the impact of the event continues. Scotland, this is just the beginning.