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Guests talking together on the steps outside the venue at the BPNS launch.
Our launch

The beginning
of something new.

29 July 2026 · North Somerset

Thank you to everyone
who joined us.

On 29th July 2026, professionals from across North Somerset came together to launch Black Professionals North Somerset (BPNS).

The evening was about more than introducing a new network. It was the beginning of building stronger professional connections, sharing ideas and creating opportunities for Black professionals across our region.

We were delighted to welcome almost 30 guests, alongside friends and supporters of BPNS.

Guests arriving and greeting one another on the steps at the launch. A guest writing on a note during the evening, with others sitting alongside him.

What we heard

We asked our guests what they would like BPNS to become. Four themes came through strongly.

Connection

Building stronger professional connections.

Visibility

Helping people feel visible and valued.

Mentoring

Supporting others and the next generation.

Opportunity

Creating more opportunities for Black professionals.

The three BPNS founders on the garden path, with guests gathered on the steps behind them.

Our story

BPNS was created to connect, support and celebrate Black professionals across North Somerset.

At our launch, our founders shared some of the personal and professional experiences that brought us together, and why we believe there is value in creating a professional network with community roots.

What started as an idea is now becoming a community.

Moments from the evening

New connections. Shared conversations. New ideas.

Everyone who came to the launch gathered together on the steps for a group photograph. Guests sitting and standing on the steps, deep in conversation. A guest smiling as he carries a folding table across the garden. A guest adding a note to the whiteboard asking what would bring people through the door, and what the barriers might be. Four guests standing together, listening, drinks in hand. Guests in conversation beside the open doors, drinks in hand.
Guests in conversation with the Mayor of Weston-super-Mare, who is wearing the chain of office.

Powered by community

BPNS was delighted to welcome friends, supporters and representatives from our local community, including the Mayor of Weston-super-Mare.

Their encouragement — alongside the enthusiasm of everyone who joined us — gave BPNS a wonderful start.

This is just the beginning.

We’re now growing our member community and turning the ideas shared at our launch into the next chapter of BPNS.

Become a Member →
Two guests talking together in front of the garden greenery.