It’s no secret that diversity within the boardrooms and at the executive level of the UK sporting industry leaves a lot to be desired. In 2020, it was reported that just three per cent of board members identified as ‘black’ across all 130 of Sport England’s and UK Sport’s funded bodies. 

Recognising they could do something to help equip the next generation to find it easier accessing 

senior-level careers in sport, Ladi and two of his friends launched the annual Black in Sport Summit (BISS) in 2022. The summit provides a platform to learn and network with successful and inspiring industry professionals, with the aim of providing job opportunities and valuable experiences. 

Despite being just two years old, the platform has already helped to amplify conversation and inspire action. This year’s event included a stellar line-up of speakers such as former Premier League footballer Anton Ferdinand, who delivered a candid talk on racism in football while sharing his own personal experiences. The BISS team also managed to secure one of the biggest names in sporting history, seven time Formula One title winner Lewis Hamilton, who appeared in a pre-recorded exclusive interview to talk about how he is providing opportunities for young people through his charity Mission 44. 

This year’s event was held at the London Stadium and took a lot of planning and preparation. Ladi had to liaise with different speakers, companies and organisations, and by co-leading a team of over 10 people, helped secure strategic partnerships and sponsorships with the likes of Sky Sports. The event is also supported by the university, and with 150 attendees last year and 300 this year, it keeps growing. 

Ladi also heads up professional boxer Richard Riakporhe’s marketing team. This is a demanding role that involves working on a project-by-project basis. Ladi works on Richard’s social media engagement and growth while continuing to build his own brand. Ladi is relishing the chance to work with a professional athlete and see how things work behind the scenes in the sports industry, while also building his own communication and social media skills.

“I’d like to explore my creativity and have my own business up and running and doing amazingly well, as I like to think of myself as a serial entrepreneur.”