As a response to Black Lives Matter, my team and I have been working on constructive ways of helping to bring about equality. This includes equality in education and employment.

Talking to Black businesses owners, they tell me of great achievements they are proud of but also difficulties. One of these is getting finance. I have been asking banks to consider what they can do to change this situation.

On Friday 5^th February I’m hosting a networking event for Black-owned businesses to create connections that will help them to start up, grow, adapt and thrive.

I’m looking forward to bringing business people together at this event, organised together with Lloyds Bank. This is the latest in a series of events addressing structural racism in our city – one of my priorities as Bristol’s first MP from a Black or minority ethnic background.

This year is likely to be very challenging for many businesses, but Bristol’s resilient community can get through it by working together.

I will be hosting the event with Jeremy Hayward, Lloyds Banking Group’s Ambassador for the South West. The panel includes

• Diana Chrouch, Chair of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Business Policy at the Federation of Small Businesses
• Indie Gordon of Foundervine
• Sibusiso Tshabalala, Associate, Black South West Network and founder of Cognitive Paths
• Roland Guy, Race Action Plan Lead, Lloyds Banking Group.

One aim of the event is to learn about the experiences of Black entrepreneurs and better understand some of the barriers that need to be broken down in order to ensure success is possible for everyone.

The event will take place on Friday 5th February, 9.15-11.00am You can sign up here.

Please pass this on to Bristol businesses and networks in the area.