The Black History Month Celebration with M&G, co-hosted by Black Professionals United Kingdom (BPU), took place on the 30th of October 2025 in Edinburgh and proved to be an inspiring and enriching evening. Centred on M&G ’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, the event brought together professionals, leaders and aspiring talent to celebrate Black history and discuss meaningful ways to create equitable opportunities within the financial services industry.
The evening opened with a warm introduction from Mark McLane, Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Well-being at M&G, who set the tone by reminding everyone of the importance of telling and creating our own history. His message captured the spirit of Black History Month, highlighting the power of representation and the collective responsibility to shape narratives for future generations.
Ross Liston, CEO of M&G Life Business, followed with a special talk that delved into the history and purpose of M&G. He spoke passionately about the company’s mission to provide real opportunities for all members of society to utilise their wealth and potential. He also shared insights into M&G’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of financial advisors, a commitment that resonated deeply with the audience.
Campbell Stanners, Business Development Director, shared impactful reflections on how M&G is taking deliberate steps to develop diverse talent. He discussed initiatives such as the M&G Wealth Academy, where graduates receive tailored training and ongoing support to help them build thriving careers as financial advisors. His words left a lasting impression as he extended an open invitation to the audience, saying, “If you’re curious about financial services and advice, we want to hear from you.”
Beyond the insightful talks, the event offered excellent networking opportunities in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Attendees had the chance to engage with peers and leaders, exchange ideas, and explore potential career pathways within M&G and the broader financial sector.
Overall, it was an excellent event that left participants feeling seen, inspired, and energised to pursue their goals. The combination of powerful storytelling, practical insight, and genuine connection made the evening a fitting tribute to the values of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment that lie at the heart of both M&G and Black Professionals United Kingdom.