AFBE-UK Announces AFBELive 2026 as Engineering Sector Looks Beyond Access to Equity

AFBELive takes its flagship engineering conversation to the Midlands on 30 October, bringing together industry leaders, engineers, students and innovators to explore the future of engineering and who gets to shape it.

BIRMINGHAM, UK — As emerging technologies reshape industries, workplaces and the skills engineers will need in the years ahead, the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers UK (AFBE-UK) is bringing its flagship AFBELive conference to Birmingham for a conversation about who and what gets to shape that future. Taking place on Friday, 30 October at The Vox Conference Centre, AFBELive 2026 will bring together engineers, technology professionals, students, business leaders, entrepreneurs and researchers from across the UK.

Now in its third edition, AFBELive provides a national platform to consider how technological change, talent, sustainability and inclusion will shape the future of engineering.

This year’s theme, “The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity,” reflects a wider shift in the diversity conversation. Rather than focusing solely on who gets through the door, the conference will examine what happens afterwards: whether people have the opportunity to progress, contribute, innovate and lead.

The programme will explore four areas central to that conversation: building a pipeline that delivers lasting change; understanding the trends and opportunities reshaping engineering; using sustainability to create more equitable futures; and developing more inclusive supply chains.

Dr. Nike Folayan MBE (CEng, FIET), Co-founder of AFBE-UK, sharing her thoughts on the conference said:

“AFBELive 2026 is about moving the conversation beyond access to equity. As new technologies reshape engineering, we need to ensure underrepresented groups not only enter the profession, but understand where opportunities are emerging, how transferable skills can open new pathways, and how businesses can access opportunities across the engineering supply chain. Holding these conversations during Black History Month makes it even more significant – celebrating achievement while focusing firmly on the opportunities of the future.”

Innovation Hub puts frontier technology in the spotlight

A central feature of AFBELive 2026 will be the Innovation Hub, a walk-through exhibition bringing emerging technologies out of the abstract and into practical, hands-on experiences.

The Hub will showcase five frontier disciplines: artificial intelligence, quantum computing, nuclear fusion, synthetic biology and additive manufacturing, through live demonstrations, working models, hands-on activities and opportunities to engage directly with researchers, engineers and industry pioneers.

It will also connect emerging technologies with emerging careers, giving students, researchers and early-career professionals the opportunity to discover career pathways, graduate schemes, apprenticeships and research opportunities, while creating a space for employers to engage directly with future talent.

Putting new ideas in front of industry leaders

Innovation will also take centre stage in the Next Big Idea Pitching Competition, giving students and professionals the opportunity to develop and present solutions to real-world challenges across five themes, from AI for workforce equity and inclusive supply chains to net zero and the future-ready workforce.

Finalists will deliver three-minute live pitches to senior business leaders at AFBELive, with the top three ideas receiving cash prizes, recognition and support to continue developing their ideas. Applications close on 11 September 2026, with the final taking place at AFBELive on 30 October.

Connecting innovation with business opportunity

The SME Reception will bring together research students, founders, SMEs, entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and larger organisations around growth and opportunity.

Through interactive roundtables, SME spotlight pitches and networking, the session will explore practical questions around funding, partnerships and growth, while creating opportunities for emerging businesses and researchers to connect with potential partners, investors and established organisations.

A national conversation with an industry-wide audience

AFBELive 2026 will bring together voices from across the engineering and technology landscape.

Confirmed speakers include Dame Tamara Finkelstein DCB, Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Engineering; Anca Raines, Chief People Officer at Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team; Loraine Martins OBE FRSA, Global EDI Director at Arup; George Imafidon MBE, CEO and Co-Founder of Motivez; Nike Folayan MBE, Co-founder and Chairperson of AFBE-UK; and Ollie Folayan MBE, Co-founder of AFBE-UK and Chairperson of AFBE-UK Scotland, alongside engineers, leaders and emerging professionals from across the sector.

The conference is supported by organisations across engineering, technology and industry, including Microsoft, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, Aston Martin F1, Rolls-Royce SMR, Leonardo, Arup, Mott MacDonald, Bechtel and Harbour Energy, among others.

Across the wider programme, attendees can expect keynote addresses, panels, workshops, case studies, roundtables, fireside conversations, exhibitions, speed networking and interactive sessions, with opportunities for students, early-career professionals, established engineers and corporate organisations.

The programme will conclude with an evening cocktail reception, providing an opportunity for attendees to continue conversations and build relationships beyond the formal conference.

Event Details

AFBELive 2026
Theme: The Future of Engineering: From Access to Equity
Date: Friday, 30 October 2026
Time: 9:00am–10:30pm
Venue: The Vox Conference Centre, Birmingham, B40 1PU

Tickets are available for students, professionals and organisations. For tickets, programme information and further details, visit AFBELive.com.