Wellbeing and EDI: Diversity programme helps employers develop their EDI strategy and recruit talent September 13th, 2024 Mya Driver The second cohort has just graduated from Future of London’s Emerging Talent Programme (ETP), which offers paid work placements in the built environment sector to people from ethnic minority backgrounds.Over three-quarters of programme starters from the first two intakes have now found jobs in the sector. The majority have been offered jobs by organisations that hosted work placements, which highlights the employer benefits of participation.Host organisations have told us that hosting a placement has enhanced their EDI strategy and these figures show it also helps to recruit new talent permanently. We also provide cultural intelligence training to line managers in host organisations to improve their understanding of workplace diversity issues.“We all know that people from ethnic minority backgrounds and other marginalised groups are very poorly under-represented in the sector so we launched the Emerging Talent Programme to do something tangible about that,” said Future of London chief executive, Nicola Mathers.“We’re missing out on critical talent by not having an inclusive industry. At a time of housing crisis and climate emergency we need people to challenge established ways of doing things.”Planning consultancy DP9 hosted the graduation event and has provided valuable placement and training opportunities for the programme.“The candidates an extremely talented bunch who bring a wide range of educational backgrounds and experiences to the table,” said Rebecca Neil of DP9 at the event. “Employers learn as much from the experience as the candidates do.”At the graduation event, we heard from a candidate about the positive impact the Emerging Talent Programme had on them.“Participating in the ETP programme has thoroughly equipped me for a career in the built environment through hands-on experience, strategic networking, and a deeper grasp of industry practices,” said Fiona Rodrigues.Fiona enjoyed placements with the Greater London Authority and then Yoo Capital, who offered her a job on completion of her placement.“These experiences have equipped me with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for my future career,” she said.Members of the third Emerging Talent Programme cohort are now well into their first placement. We are currently recruiting host organisations for round four, with candidate recruitment opening later in the year.If you are looking to diversify your team please contact Programme Manager, Elaine Cleland-Awity ([email protected]). The closing date for host applications in the end October.www.futureoflondon.org.uk/leadership/emerging-talent-programme/