Over 100 professionals gathered at Lloyds Banking Group HQ on 23 October to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Black Mortgage Professionals & Allies Network (BMPAN) – a community-led initiative dedicated to improving equity, representation and inclusion across the UK mortgage and financial services industry.
Founded by Jeffrey Krampah-Williams, Aleka Gutzmore and Atlyn Forde (pictured), BMPAN began in 2024 with a single Black History Month networking event. The overwhelming response from attendees sparked the development of an ongoing movement. Since then, BMPAN has delivered four high-impact events, built a thriving community of Black professionals and allies, and championed leadership and progression within the sector.
“We created BMPAN because we recognised the need for a safe, empowering space where Black professionals could connect, grow, and be visible,” said Atlyn Forde, co-founder of BMPAN and Head of Engagement & Inclusion at Pepper Money. “This anniversary event was a celebration of our progress and a powerful reminder of how much more we can achieve together.”
An Evening of Inspiration: Pride, Power & Purpose
Held at Lloyds Banking Group’s headquarters, the sold-out anniversary event centred around the theme: “Power, Pride & Purpose”, kicked-off with powerful opening remarks delivered by Rose St Louis, Protection Director at Scottish Widows and CEO of Cavendish Online, who reflected on the importance of allyship and industry-wide collaboration to accelerate inclusion.
The event proceedings hosted by Aleka Gutzmore, BMPAN co-founder and Financial Adviser at Moneysprite; featured a compelling fireside chat and panel discussion exploring how Black leaders are using their influence to make a difference at work and in their communities. It also examined how professionals can stay rooted in purpose while navigating their careers authentically.
Fireside Chat – Purpose-Led Leadership and Community Impact
Facilitated by BMPAN co-founder Atlyn Forde, the fireside chat featured three inspiring leaders:
- Isaac Kikabi, Business Development Manager, BM Solutions
- Hazvi Chimbete, Partner, John Charcoal and Community Leader
- Khalia Ismain, Social Sustainability Director, Lloyds Banking Group
Each panellist shared their journey, the role of purpose in their work, and the power of giving back.
Panel Discussion – Power & Pride in Leadership
Moderated by Jeffrey Krampah-Williams, BMPAN co-founder and National Key Account Manager, Santander; this dynamic discussion included:
- Teddy Nyahasha, Finance Director, Lloyds Banking Group
- Zanele Sibanda, Head of Business Development, Towergate Health & Protection
- Dom Scott, Managing Director of Lifetime Connect
- Rebecca Grant, Senior Mortgage Consultant, Countrywide
- Marcus Dussard, Sales Director, KSEYE
The conversation explored what it means to lead with cultural pride, the importance of authentic leadership, and how to break systemic barriers in the workplace.
Celebrating Experience and Talent in the Industry
During the evening, BMPAN conducted a real-time audience poll to understand the depth of talent within its community. The results were powerful:
- 63% of attendees have worked in the financial services and mortgage industry for over 10 years
- 70% have been promoted while working in the industry
These findings challenge outdated assumptions and demonstrate the strength and readiness of Black professionals to take up senior leadership roles. Yet, despite this talent pipeline, Black professionals still hold a disproportionately low share of decision-making positions in the industry.
“The results highlight what we’ve known all along—there is no shortage of Black excellence in this sector,” said Jeffrey Krampah-Williams. “It’s time the industry truly recognised and invested in that.”
BMPAN’s Mission and Vision
BMPAN’s mission is to build a thriving and supportive community for Black professionals in mortgages and financial services and their allies. The network provides a safe space for networking, learning, career progression, and leadership development.
BMPAN is working toward an ambitious yet achievable vision:
To see 4% of leadership roles in the mortgage and financial services sector held by Black professionals—a reflection of the UK population. This would mean a sector that truly reflects the communities it serves and where all talent can thrive without barriers.
Call to Action
Organisations, allies, and supporters who want to make a difference are encouraged to get involved. Whether through sponsorship, speaking at future events, offering shadowing, or sharing job opportunities with the BMPAN network, every action counts.
For more information or to get involved, visit: www.bmpan.online or [email protected]
“We’ve built this network with love, grit, and commitment,” said Aleka Gutzmore, co-founder of BMPAN. “But we can’t do this alone. The next chapter of our impact will be written by everyone who chooses to act.”
