First Black in Business Scholars begin LBS journey

London Business School’s (LBS) first Black in Business (BiB) Scholars are leading by example.

Nine students from across the School’s degree programme portfolio have received BiB Scholarships this academic year.

They are: Fadeke Adegbohun, Seun Akingbogun, Jonathan Antor, Queenette Archibong, Ahmed Eltom, Anneke Gustafson, Lewis Muguro, Wandile Sgwane and Axel Tagnon.

BiB Scholarships support exceptional students of Black or Mixed Black ethnicity and the progression of diverse and inclusive leaders on its programmes and in industry.

Ms Archibong EMBALS2023 said scholarships like BiB had the power to transform the wider business landscape

“(They) are an active way to increase the pipeline of diverse leaders across industries,” she said. “This scholarship made it possible for me to join the student body and I hope to pay it forward by showing other Black women the possibilities that exist.”

Mr Antor MFA2022 said funding, like that offered by the School’s BiB Scholarships, opened doors for underrepresented minorities to access educational opportunities at world-class institutions such as LBS.

“This is especially beneficial for minorities, as it gives us the opportunity to prosper into senior business leaders who are able to invoke change on the current affairs of our world.”

Recipients of a BiB Scholarship must have the intention to contribute to racial equality and the student-led BiB Club during their time at the School. They must also demonstrate experience in racially diverse and inclusive leadership within their country, industry, community or organisation.

Mr Eltom MBA2023 said he was hoping to develop “a global network with future business leaders” during his time at LBS.

“Being able to connect and build relationships with people from all over the world is a priceless and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said.

“More specifically, I think building and showcasing a network of Black business leaders is important for tackling issues related to institutional racism, as well as providing role models for aspiring Black leaders.”

Tsepo Serakalala MBA2022, President of the BiB Club, said the BiB Scholarships were one of the many joint-initiatives the Club and School were working on “to increase Black representation in the student body.”

“This exceptional cohort of Scholars has already exceeded our expectations in terms of their talent, drive and passion for diversity, community and excellence. Seven of the Scholars have successfully passed the Black in Business executive committee selection process and all have committed themselves to contributing to racial equality and helping BiB achieve its mission,” he said.

“We hope that the scholarship will continue to catalyse the transformation and enrichment of the School community, while also promoting the advancement of Black business professionals in our broader society.”

More than 290 Scholarships have been awarded to incoming students across LBS’s degree programme portfolio this academic year.