Emerging Executives Programme
Leadership tailored for ethnic-cultural professionals
Roots Inspire’s mission is to increase ethnic-cultural diversity in corporate leadership. This programme is designed to identify, develop and support ethnic-culturally diverse candidates who will become the next leaders in their industry.
Your Move to Leadership
Leadership is more than a title - it’s an opportunity to create impact
At Roots Inspire, we empower ethnoculturally diverse professionals like you to break barriers, navigate unwritten corporate rules, and take charge of their leadership path with confidence and authenticity.
The Experience
During a six-month programme, you will receive mentorship from ethnically-diverse corporate leaders, gain tailored career guidance from experts and obtain access to a powerful network.
93%
of Roots Inspire alumni now feel more confident to bring their full self to work
92%
of Roots Inspire alumni now have a better understanding of corporate dynamics
91%
of Roots Inspire alumni are now clear on how to achieve the next step in their careers
“I spent 18 years in Banking, often the only person of colour in the room.
Let’s change that!”
SERGIO PANDAY
Roots Inspire
Key Benefits
1:1 Career Coaching
Receive 1-on-1 career coaching from ethnic-cultural corporate leaders that have been in your shoes.
Leadership Training
Professional Network
Exclusive Events
Gain access to exclusive events with C-suite ethnic-cultural professionals.
Possible scholarship
Tailored Workshops
Eligibility & Criteria
This programme is designed for:
- Ethnic-culturally diverse executives-in-the-making.
- Professionals who have a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience,
- Have the ambition to pursue an executive leadership career, and
Ready to Make Your Case?
Learn how to turn your growth ambitions into a clear case for leadership progression. Get practical language to position the programme as a strategic next step for you and your organisation, and secure your manager’s support with confidence.
How to Apply
Our next cohorts will bring together senior ethnic-cultural talent. Discover how to apply to start preparing your application for future intakes.
Background Information
Motivational Questions
To better understand your professional background and leadership readiness.
Endorsement Letter (Optional)
Strengthen your application by
including a brief recommendation from a colleague, mentor, or manager who can attest to your leadership potential.
A Look at our Inspiring Mentors
Ference LampMERRILL LYNCH, MANAGING DIRECTOR“From my mentees, I expect commitment, curiosity and eagerness. You can expect me to show you, success is possible.”
Gitanjali PonnappaNEGOTIATEHER, STRATEGIST“Careers often hinges on skillful negotiation and navigating relationships. We can together explore this dynamic to achieve your goals.”
Niraan De SilvaVNLIFE, EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER“Gaining a deeper understanding of the person across the table is an essential soft skill for leadership."
Robert WongHONEYWELL, DIRECTOR OF SALES“I hope to provide my mentees with the confidence and inspiration to chart their own successful course.”
Sue StephensMETA, GROWTH BUSINESSES LEAD“I fundamentally believe talent is distributed equally, opportunity is not.”
Sumitra MoellerABN AMRO, MANAGING DIRECTOR“One of the key tools of career advancement is cultivating the courage to be genuine.."
Register Interest
Are you ready to accelerate your leadership journey?
We are looking for top ethnic-culturally diverse leadership talent in their field.
Register interest for our 2026 Emerging Executives Programme . Our team will get in touch with you after the application deadline.