{
  "id": 14188318,
  "title": "Belonging at work starts with making room for someone else",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/belonging-at-work-starts-with-making-room-for-someone-else",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-13T11:04:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "City AM",
    "slug": "city-am",
    "url": "https://www.cityam.com/belonging-at-work-starts-with-making-room-for-someone-else/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Investec recently hosted a conversation with its charitable partner, the Black Young Professionals Network (BYP), about creating a sense of belonging in the workplace. Jason Spivey, Investec’s Head of People and Organisation, explained that belonging is not just about inclusion; it's about providing opportunities and support to thrive. Black History Month serves as a time to appreciate Black history, culture, and achievements, yet the real question is what happens after the month concludes. Once black and ethnically diverse colleagues are onboard, are they given equal chances to advance their careers, grow, be heard, and receive backing? Belonging is cultivated in the everyday instances when someone recognizes your capabilities, provides a space for you to demonstrate them, and supports you when needed. It means being heard, trusted with meaningful work, and being represented when decisions are made elsewhere. Potential may exist, but the obstacle is often access to the right people, opportunities, and support that turn potential into progression. A 2025 report by Business in the Community found that although black professionals make up one in ten of Britain's population, they represent only one in fifteen in management positions. Recruitment numbers only indicate who entered the organization; they do not reveal who was entrusted with significant tasks, who received constructive feedback, or who was considered for future opportunities. Carl Konadu, co-founder and CEO of youth social enterprise 2-3 Degrees, stated, \"If you walk into a room and feel out of place, find someone else who might feel the same, and help them belong.\" Belonging is not something that can be communicated through a statement on a website; it arises when someone opens space at the table, clarifies information others assume everyone knows, or offers a colleague a chance before they feel fully prepared. At Investec, some of this work occurs through our collaborations. Our partnership with the BYP Network brings us closer to Black professionals at various stages of their careers. Kike Agoro, founder and CEO of the BYP Network, noted that Black talent is keenly observing what employers offer. Black professionals scrutinize opportunities closely, considering culture, pay, and promises before committing. This scrutiny is justified. Trust is not something an employer can suddenly activate when a vacancy arises. During a recent panel I led at the BYP Leadership Conference, numerous stories were shared, each recounting a moment when someone's response helped them view themselves differently. World-ranked boxer and social entrepreneur Valerian Spicer (and past recipient of Investec’s Beyond Business programme) recounted entering a boxing gym for the first time in her thirties. The coaches observed her work, acknowledged her dedication, and offered her their time. She emphasized, \"No one gave me a grand welcome; I just started, and they could see my commitment.\" Her advice, \"Start before you're ready,\" resonated with me. Frequently, we assume confidence is something a person must possess before entering a new environment. The truth is, confidence can emerge from being granted an opportunity and realizing people take you seriously once you begin. Black professionals may possess all the necessary qualifications for a role but still face challenges in advancing their careers. The unwritten aspects of career progression can be difficult to navigate. Who clarifies the decision-making process? Who provides early, honest feedback? Who introduces you to the person who can open the next door? Sponsorship plays a crucial role in addressing these gaps. A mentor can assist in contemplating choices, while a sponsor goes beyond by mentioning the person when an opportunity arises and backing the recommendation with their credibility. As professionals progress in their careers, opportunities are increasingly shaped by conversations they may not be privy to. If black colleagues are absent from the networks surrounding these discussions, even strong recruitment at junior levels may not suffice to elevate them to leadership positions. This matter extends beyond fairness; it is essential for fostering a better work environment. When people can ask questions without apprehension, present ideas without fearing judgment, and learn from mistakes without feeling it confirms others' assumptions, the workplace thrives. Therefore, I urge employers to look beyond mere recruitment statistics. Observe who is given challenging work. Notice whose career trajectory has stagnated and inquire about the reasons. When someone demonstrates potential, do not wait for them to be fully prepared before extending your support. Belonging often hinges on minor decisions made by individuals with influence. Extend an invitation to the conversation. Acknowledge their name when they are absent. Provide context, constructive feedback, or the initial opportunity that someone once extended to you. Feeling welcomed matters significantly; being able to influence what happens next matters even more.",
  "summary": "Investec recently chaired a panel discussion with its charitable partner, the Black Young Professionals Network (BYP), exploring the relationship between belonging and performance in the workplace. Jason Spivey, Investec’s Head of People and Organisation, reflects on why belonging is about more than inclusion. It’s about having the opportunities and backing to succeed. Black History Month [...]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}