Advancing Equity & Innovation Across Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths (STEM)

BTLS is on a mission to increase Black representation and leadership across STEM industries — connecting talented individuals with opportunities, mentorship, and community to drive lasting change.

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About Us

Black Talent & Leadership in STEM (BTLS)

Black Talent & Leadership in STEM (BTLS) is a brand owned by Ascension X Ltd, BTLS is a cross-industry partner initiative, delivered in collaboration with CW (Cambridge Wireless), Homerton Changemakers, Homerton College, University of Cambridge and Synergy Solutions.

The organisation brings together senior leaders from across STEM and other industries to urgently address race equity within the sector and in doing so, understand ways in which to alleviate some of the challenges relating to accessing technical skills, diverse talent and providing workforce sustainability. This forms part of the wider commitment to social mobility, job creation and representation, whilst addressing the industry's specific challenges relating to the deep tech digital skills gap.

Ascension X

Ascension X is dedicated to creating positive transformation through technology, leading advancements in innovation, promoting equity, and ensuring tangible impact. We achieve this by working in collaboration with partners from industry, academia, and policy makers.

Our approach integrates technology, data analysis, collaborative partnerships, and continuous learning to establish quantifiable pathways that advance equity, innovation, and meaningful impact. This ensures each partnership and programme effectively contributes to a more equitable future in STEM.

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Our Vision

Our 2030 Ambition

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Lives To Be Impacted

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Organisations Engaged

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Young People & Professionals

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Collaborations

Value Proposition

Why This Is Important

While the tech industry is rapidly growing, becoming one of the leading sectors in bolstering the UK economy and providing work opportunities across the UK, technology innovation is developing faster than its workforce. There are still some communities who remain vastly under-represented within the sector.

BTLS Mission is to Advance Equity & Innovation across STEM

At BTLS we believe that technology should be a force for good — driving equity, innovation, and real-world impact. Our mission is to bridge the gap between underrepresented communities, academia, and industry.

We use data, collaboration, and learning to create measurable pathways for inclusion — ensuring that every partnership and programme moves the dial toward an equitable future across STEM. We do this through:

Collaboration & Engagement

Connecting industry, universities, and communities to share ideas and opportunities.

Accessible Learning

Providing open access to skills, mentorship, and leadership pathways.

Innovation & Equity

Promoting inclusive innovation that drives economic and social change.

Research Driven Methodology

Our strategies and guidance are underpinned by evidenced based research.

Bias Free Intelligence

Delivering access to advanced digital tools designed to offer valuable insights that support informed leadership decision-making.

Testimonials

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"BTLS completely changed the trajectory of my career. The mentorship programme connected me with industry leaders who helped me believe in my potential and navigate a space that can feel very exclusive."

Amara Johnson

Software Engineer, Google