EmpowerUs
Photo: CreateHER Stock.
EmpowerUs is our personal development programme for grades 4, 5, and 6 staff from minority and under-represented backgrounds who aspire to develop their careers. This unique programme also includes inclusive leadership development for managers.
In 2023, we launched EmpowerHer - a pilot programme for minority ethnic women and their managers. Building on this success, and responding to feedback to expand the programme to a wider range of staff, we are delivering EmpowerUs for disabled staff, women, LGBTQUIA+ staff, and staff who identify as ethnic minority.
The programme's primary aim is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively address the unique challenges they face as they progress as minorities in predominantly non-diverse environments.
We also recognise that real change will only happen if we make positive steps to change the system, and so the programme also aims to equip managers to understand and confront systemic practices and personal behaviours that can perpetuate disadvantages for minority groups.
"I am delighted to be sponsoring EmpowerUs. To my mind, this programme embodies our values by creating opportunities for staff and their managers to understand and thrive on difference; creating space for them to think freely and share opportunities and the connections created between participants and their managers will support them as they progress on their respective career journeys.
One of the features which I believe make this programme leading edge is the involvement of the managers. I would strongly encourage eligible staff to apply and their managers to both support their application and engage in the programme. Through talent development programmes such as EmpowerUs, we are making positive strides towards increasing diversity in our future leaders and that will enable us to point the way ahead together towards a better and more inclusive world."
Rachel Sandby-Thomas, Registrar
We are not currently taking applications for EmpowerUs.
If you have any questions about the programme, please get in touch at .
What previous participants say:
"I am very pleased that I had the opportunity of being part of EmpowerHer. EmpowerHer helps me to reflect on my capabilities and achievements to understand how to manage important factors to be successful in a working environment such as effective communication, navigation of policies and mechanisms to overcome complex situations. After the programme, I do feel, as the name indicates, Empowered! to give a better direction to my professional career using my skills and knowledge."
Martha Littuma Larrea
"This has been an extremely good experience. I have enjoyed reflecting on my own good practices and learned new skills and knowledge to better manage my team."
Amy Dowden, Manager.
"I would recommend this programme to other colleagues across the University. The course has opened my eyes to new perspectives and hidden challenges; most importantly it has helped to identify ways I can support others in overcoming these."
Monica Sounderraj
"Wonderful opportunity to network with a wider audience of aspiring female leaders. Listening to empowered women share their experiences on overcoming personal and cultural barriers, and thriving in a multi-cultural institution like the University of Warwick, was truly inspiring. Warwick is proud of its diverse community, and initiatives like the EmpowerHer programme are essential in embedding a culture of inclusivity. This is the next step that will help Warwick reach even greater strengths"
Jodie Wallington
"A wonderful opportunity to meet and learn from peers in a safe, supportive environment. EmpowerHer provided the opportunity to reflect on ourselves and the environment in which we work and come away with practical tools and new approaches to work along with a network of fantastic women to support."
Adriana Smith Ortiz
"I find the course really motivating. The course coach, programme and the participative approach were really useful to build confidence and network."
Ameera Jamil