Developing & Bringing Talent to Life
Connect Talent CIO fosters social inclusion, empowers communities, and bridges the digital divide across Salford and the North West of England.
Supportive & Inclusive Community
Empowering individuals across Salford and the North West
Our Story & Mission
Connect Talent CIO fosters social inclusion, empowers communities, and bridges the digital divide, particularly for those from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds, including Black, Asian, and minority ethnic groups in Salford and across the North West of England.
Over the past years, Connect Talent has supported individuals with various digital skills training, providing free data and devices to households, and helping individuals secure employment through tailored workshops and mentoring. The organisation has also supported individuals with EU Settlement Scheme and visa applications and hosted community outreach events. Connect Talent provides a supportive and inclusive environment and embodies the true spirit of an integrated homogenous community.
Connect Talent wishes to help individuals gain the necessary skills and confidence to progress within the working environment and, where necessary, help them get work placements or mentoring that will aid their advancement in the world of work. Helping an individual achieve their career potential in leadership roles or giving them the confidence to start their own business if that is what they want.
Why Now?
It has never been more important than now to support the development and growth of professionals and students from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) backgrounds. Notably, in recent years, there have been representation concerns for this group of people in the UK and other international communities.
One of the greatest challenges of this group is under-representation in management and leadership roles in the international sector.
"The focus of the organisation is to promote inclusion and work readiness for BME individuals. Developing capacity through impartial career information, advice and continuing professional development alongside holistic support. The overall objective being to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their best and to make a meaningful contribution to the local community and economy."
Social Inclusion
Fostering integrated, supportive, and welcoming community spaces.
Digital Inclusion
Providing free devices, data access, and essential digital training.
Work Readiness
Mentoring, workshops, and career advice for leadership advancement.
BME Empowerment
Addressing under-representation and supporting entrepreneurship.
Meet Our Team
The dedicated trustees and executive leadership guiding Connect Talent CIO's mission in Salford.
Rev. John Bradbury
Chair of Trustees
Dr Oladimeji K Ojerinola
PhD, FHEA, FNIMN, MNIM, MICIArs
CEO
Kelly Samuel
Trustee
Ade Arogundade
Trustee
Olubunmi Adeleke
BL, LLM, MBA, AICMC, FCIB, Carb (UK), FIMS(UK)
Trustee
Osas Efe Asemota-Amadi
Trustee
Official Governance & Registration
Connect Talent CIO is registered with the UK Charity Commission (Charity No. 1169975). We work in close cooperation with Salford City Council, Good Things Foundation, OCN London, and local community hubs.