Colleagues from across the Greater Manchester Housing Providers (GMHP) came together at the People’s History Museum on Tuesday 6 October 2026 to celebrate the graduation of the third cohort of the BOOST Organisational Change Programme.
BOOST is fully funded through a partnership between GMHP and participating organisations. The programme aims to tackle the underrepresentation of ethnically diverse colleagues in leadership roles across the housing sector.
The 12-month programme brings together aspiring ethnically diverse colleagues and senior leaders in a reciprocal mentoring partnership. Participants share experiences, learn from one another and build a better understanding of different lived experiences, helping create more inclusive workplaces. Using this learning, participating organisations are also tasked with taking practical action toward cultural change via projects led by Change Champions.
Paul Howes, Southway’s Executive Director and BOOST mentor, said:
“Taking part in the programme as a mentor has been a wonderful experience. I have learned so much from colleagues across the housing sector about how we can better encourage representation and diversity in the workplace and I’m enjoying putting these ideas into practice.”
The graduation event included presentations from mentees, who reflected on their experiences and the lessons they had learned throughout the programme. It also included a panel discussion led by Julia Rouse (Consultant to BOOST), that explored how graduates can continue their BOOST journey beyond the programme and develop as anti-racist allies.
Nnaemeka Nwankwo, a Southway employee and BOOST mentee, said:
“My experience with BOOST has been transformational for me, not just for my career but also on a personal level. I have learned so much about leadership and helping to shape the next generation of ethnically diverse leaders. The graduation ceremony was also a good opportunity to connect with my fellow mentees and mentors to celebrate the success of the last year.”
The event also featured a keynote speech from Sharon Amesu, founder of Say What Matters, who spoke about facing life’s challenges and the importance of Community, Cause, Courage and Character. She then presented certificates to the graduates.
A report published by Manchester Metropolitan University was shared at a BOOST Programme Conference in July 2026 highlighted the programme’s positive impact. It evaluated the programme’s first two mentoring cohorts and found that around half of the participating mentees had secured an internal or external promotion or pay rise after taking part in BOOST.
John Bowker, Southway’s Chief Executive and BOOST Project Sponsor, said:
“This programme helps mentees overcome barriers, build confidence, and become champions for positive change within their organisations. It’s inspiring to see participants helping to shape the future of BOOST, and it was a pleasure celebrate the achievements of both mentors and mentees at the graduation ceremony.”
The fourth cohort is already underway, with Shola Dina (mentee) and Katie Teasdale (mentor) taking part from Southway. Many previous graduates have returned to support and help shape the programme. Their continued involvement is helping to strengthen the BOOST community, inspire future participants and ensure the programme continues to grow and make a positive impact across the housing sector.