Join us in a gathering where IT and data professionals from BAME backgrounds discuss next-generational leadership.
Agenda
18:00 - Welcome and Networking
18:30 - Welcome remarks by C.K. Fadden (Chair - BCS EMBRACE)
18:35 - Speaker Presentations Begin
19:20 - Refreshment Break
19:30 - Main Session / Roundtable Discussions
20:15 - Networking Resumes
20:50 - Close of Event
Synopsis
This event will spotlight future-ready skills, leadership development in AI and data, mentorship, and strategic visibility for Black tech professionals.
Attendees will engage with influential speakers, gain practical guidance for navigating their careers, and network within a supportive, forward-thinking tech ecosystem.
About the speaker
CK Fadden:
Charlie K. Fadden is an experienced entrepreneur passionate about creating solutions that solve real-world challenges.
Known for his strategic go-to-market expertise, he ensures early adoption and impactful results. As a natural coach and problem solver, Charlie thrives on aligning teams and turning challenges into opportunities.
Currently serving as Chair of BCS EMBRACE, he champions "IT for Good, " making technology accessible to all. His human-centered approach focuses on placing people at the core of every decision. Charlie firmly believes everyone has a unique gift and is committed to helping Individuals identify and harness their potential.
Dr.Herbert Daly:
Doctor Herbert Daly is academic and an engineer with a background in enterprise systems development and modelling. His is best known for his work developing leaders at university by establishing award winning Student BCS Chapters and empowering them to create career opportunities that work for them.
In 2024 he was a speaker at the Black Heroes of Mathematics Conference for the London Mathematical Society and was awarded the prestigious IBM Champions - Champions Choice Award at IBM Tech Xchange in Barcelona.
He is currently based at the University of Hertfordshire and holds advanced degrees in Computer Science and Software Engineering from Brunel University and the University of Oxford.
Sebastian Obeta:
Sebastian is a distinguished leader in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, renowned for delivering impactful AI solutions and driving innovation across academia and industry.
Currently serving as an NLP Expert at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Business Information and Strategic Insight, he plays a pivotal role in guiding strategic decisions through cutting-edge AI research and application.
As Founder and Head of Research at the Applied Artificial Intelligence Society at the University of Bradford, Sebastian spearheaded the MSc Applied AI program, propelling it to become the fastest-growing course in the North of England — an achievement recognized at the Leeds Digital Festival in 2022.
His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including: Top 100 African Business Leaders, Entrepreneurs & Professionals in the UK (2022) United Research Forum Award (2022) for outstanding AI research Dean’s Award for Impact and Innovation (2022) for pioneering work on deep learning applications for mental health.
Finalist, Black Tech Achievement Awards (2023, 2024, 2025) as an AI Innovator Champion Beyond research and education, Sebastian is an active member of the European AI Alliance, collaborating with global experts to shape policies addressing the legal, technical, and ethical dimensions of AI in society.
Simi Belo:
Simi brings over 25 years expertise in business development, growth, and strategy consultancy. As a seasoned data privacy professional, she specialises in seamlessly integrating AI and data privacy compliance with operational excellence. Her proven track record includes assisting companies manage complex risks, implement robust frameworks, and cultivate strong cultures of compliance awareness.
Simi's experience spans different sectors, including highly regulated industries like financial services and life sciences, making her uniquely equipped to navigate the challenges of compliance and governance in these environments.
She also taps into her network of other experts as required. Ade Ahmadu is a strategic leadership coach and corporate advisor with a strong track record of guiding senior leaders and organisations through transformation.
As the Founder of Cerculate, he works with executive teams and high-potential talent to unlock performance by embedding inclusive, purpose-driven leadership cultures. With a background in managing large-scale change across industries—including tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals—Ade combines commercial acumen with deep coaching expertise. He has advised FTSE 100 companies, delivered executive.
Ade Ahmadu
Ade Ahmadu is a strategic leadership coach and corporate advisor with a strong track record of guiding senior leaders and organisations through transformation. As the Founder of Cerculate, he works with executive teams and high-potential talent to unlock performance by embedding inclusive, purpose-driven leadership cultures.
With a background in managing large-scale change across industries—including tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals—Ade combines commercial acumen with deep coaching expertise. He has advised FTSE 100 companies, delivered executive coaching to mid- and senior-level leaders, and served on multiple advisory boards driving equity and culture change at scale.
Through his practical, grounded style, Ade equips leaders to operate with clarity, navigate complexity, and lead with authenticity. His approach centres on helping people connect their values with their performance—because he believes the most effective leadership is personal, not performative.
Our events are for adults aged 16 years and over.
BCS is a membership organisation. If you enjoy this event, please consider joining BCS. You’ll be very welcome. You’ll receive access to many exclusive career development tools, an introduction to a thriving professional community and also help us Make IT Good For Society. Join BCS today
Please note: if you have any accessibility needs, please let us know via groups@bcs.uk and we’ll work with you to make suitable arrangements.
If you are attending in person, please familiarise yourself with the Visitor Instructions for the BCS London Office.
For overseas delegates who wish to attend the event, please note that BCS does not issue invitation letters.
This event is brought to you by: EMBRACE specialist group and BDPN - Black Data Professional Network
