At Leyton, we’re passionate about fostering a diverse workforce. This is especially important in STEM areas, where BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) backgrounds are traditionally underrepresented. In fact, ONS data shows that just 8% of the UK’s STEM workforce comes from BAME backgrounds.
It’s not just a question of fairness and decency (although, that would be reason enough) – there’s compelling evidence that shows the value of diversity. The Boston Consulting Group reported a strong link between diversity and financial success, with companies boasting greater diversity seeing a solid 19% boost in revenue that’s driven by innovation.
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has also stressed the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM for R&D in the UK: “The R&D sector needs at least an additional 150,000 researchers and technicians by 2030 to sustain the UK’s target of 2.4% R&D intensity. Diversifying and widening routes into R&D and inspiring people from all backgrounds to consider these careers are critical to addressing these challenges.”
We know that there’s more to be done. That’s why we wanted to speak to Quadri Akinrinade, our IT Team Lead – UK/ US. We wanted to learn from his own personal journey into a senior tech career. While speaking to him, he also shared his advice for those from BAME backgrounds looking to turn their passion for tech into a career.
The importance of representation
One often-mentioned barrier for BAME children is the lack of visible STEM role models who share the same backgrounds.
During our conversation with Quadri, he discussed the importance of seeing representation in the workplace. “I remember when I was younger, I went to one of these big companies in Milan and I was able to see someone of the same background as myself working there,” he says.
“This just empowered me to go, okay, yeah, I can do it, because for him, he’s just doing his work, but he doesn’t know that just him being there has motivated other students into pursuing the same kind of career.”
A sense of inclusion is equally important for fostering a diverse workplace. As a department lead, Quadri explained how he approaches creating an inclusive team environment. “I always emphasise the importance of clear and transparent communication,” he says.
“As a manager, I want to create an environment where everyone can speak freely,” he adds.
Get as much work experience as you can
When it comes to education versus experience, Quadri is very clear on what he feels is more important. “A degree can get you through the door, but it’s experience that matters more,” he says.
“As an interviewer, when I look at their CV, the first thing that catches my attention is the experience. They don’t need to be ready to go, but I want to know what they’ve done up until now.”
“I like to tell everyone to get an internship,” he continues. “It’s a mistake I made. I didn’t have an internship in my background, but it puts you within a work environment and you can see if you like what you’re doing.”
“I think it’s also crucial that we open internships to people from diverse backgrounds,” he adds.
Inspiring the next generation
Quadri is as passionate about inspiring the next generation as he is about technology, perhaps as his own interest began at an early age. “As a young kid, I was very curious about my computer, and the only thing I could do was basically just take it apart and fix it again and play with the whole operating system,” he says.
“This developed my love for wanting more, and knowing more, about technology. I turned this hobby into a career.”
While Quadri was lucky to know what he wanted to do at a young age, he feels that the next generation needs to be inspired by the possibilities of a tech career. “I believe in encouraging the participation of young and diverse talent in the tech sector and I believe this is essential for fostering innovation and creativity,” he says. Collaboration with schools, colleges and universities is very important.”
“One of the projects I’m actually working on at Leyton is being able to give laptops to schools, especially schools where we have kids that can’t use these devices. I want to ensure we’re able to provide and give where we can and just build a bridge that helps a diverse community into the tech industry.”
Embrace individuality and follow your dreams
Quadri finished with some motivational words, encouraging young people to embrace their unique backgrounds and stay determined in their pursuits.
“People from diverse backgrounds just need to remember that their unique experience brings a valuable perspective into the tech industry. We have to embrace our individuality and stay determined and just continue to push boundaries.”
You can hear more about Quadri’s journey by listening to our Life at Leyton podcast.
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