Birketts, a UK top 50 law firm, has recognised the African Diaspora Economic Inclusion Foundation (ADEIF) for their work towards reducing gender inequalities in the economy. The new charity was established to address issues of economic inequality for members of the African Diaspora, in particular Black female entrepreneurs. By raising awareness surrounding the inequities facing the African Diaspora, the charity and law firm aim to drive sustainable economic solutions for the benefit of the community

The success of the charity

ADEIF, registered as a charity on 29 November 2022, was founded by speaker, educator and bestselling author, Shereen Daniels, who is Managing Director of anti-racism and racial equity advisory firm HR rewired and former Vice Chair of the Black Business Association with the London Chamber of Commerce. The charity will continue to support African Diaspora professionals in an effort to gain the same economic opportunities as individuals born in the UK.

Consistent challenges continue to affect female business owners. This is due to a lack of access to finance, funding and network. These issues are exacerbated for Black women who face exclusion because of both gender and race. For the first time, the charity will receive much needed guidance, education and financial support to address issues of economic inequality affecting the African Diaspora. This will bring greater access to female business opportunities, helping increase economic inclusion.

Achieving charitable status

Although a lengthy nine-month the Birkett’s Team successfully achieved charitable status for ADEIF. The Birketts team was led by Liz Brownsell, Partner and Head of Charities, and was supported by Amy Bradburne (Solicitor) and Florence Paul (Trainee).

Liz Brownsell, Partner and Head of Charities at Birketts, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have seen Shereen’s vision come to life and to have advised her from start to finish. Shereen is an inspiring Philanthropist, doing important work to address very real issues impacting members of the African Diaspora business community, and we are very supportive of her goals, objectives and mission. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact that ADEIF will have, and am delighted to have had a role in its establishment.”

Speaking on their success, Shereen Daniels, Chair of ADEIF, said:

“Addressing the uneven playing field as it relates to entrepreneurs of African heritage within the UK is vital if we are to realise the economic opportunities that come with ensuring equal access to venture capital funding and/or debt finance. The Board of Trustees and l are deliberately homing in on supporting Black female entrepreneurs, as despite the public commitments to address funding inequities, we have yet to see any tangible progress. In fact, one could say many African Diasporic businesses are over mentored and underfunded and we want to play a small part in changing that.

“Helping viable business achieve their ambitions through small grants and educational support, demonstrates our tangible commitment to helping female entrepreneurs build thriving businesses.”