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

Co-founder & CEO,
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

Get equipped with the skills and training you need to lead in corporate.

Professional Network

Connect and get support from like-minded professionals as part of our community.

Exclusive Events

Gain access to exclusive events with C-suite ethnic-cultural professionals.

Possible scholarship

Benefit from the possibility to receive a partial programme scholarship.

Tailored Workshops

Attend expert-led workshops on sponsor relationships, corporate politics and more.

Eligibility & Criteria

This programme is designed for:

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

Provide your personal details and upload your CV or an up-to-date LinkedIn profile.

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 Lamp

MERRILL LYNCH, MANAGING DIRECTOR

“From my mentees, I expect commitment, curiosity and eagerness. You can expect me to show you, success is possible.”
Gitanjali Ponnappa

NEGOTIATEHER, STRATEGIST

“Careers often hinges on skillful negotiation and navigating relationships. We can together explore this dynamic to achieve your goals.”
Niraan De Silva

VNLIFE, EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER

“Gaining a deeper understanding of the person across the table is an essential soft skill for leadership."
Robert Wong

HONEYWELL, DIRECTOR OF SALES

“I hope to provide my mentees with the confidence and inspiration to chart their own successful course.”
Sue Stephens

META, GROWTH BUSINESSES LEAD

“I fundamentally believe talent is distributed equally, opportunity is not.”
Sumitra Moeller

ABN 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.