We have a long history of supporting Ethnic Minority students at LSE, from a career mentoring scheme to creating a tailored welcome guide for Black students. Find out how you can get involved with our work on this page!
LSESU has seven Part-Time Officers who represent students at the highest level of the Students’ Union. The Ethnic Minority Students Officer is one of these! They are tasked with representing Ethnic Minority students in the SU’s Executive Committee, and will also often be a representative within university spaces. This means that Ethnic Minority students will always have a voice advocating on their behalf in these spaces.
You can find out how to get in touch with this year’s Ethnic Minority Students Officer here.
At LSESU, “ethnic minority” is an umbrella term. It includes a wide range of racialised identities and backgrounds, and we recognise that no single label captures everyone's story.
This space includes, and is not limited to:
Students who identify as Black, Asian, Arab, Latinx, or from other minoritised ethnic backgrounds
Students who are mixed-heritage, diasporic, or who feel “in-between” cultures
Students whose identity is changing, complicated, or still being figured out
If you've ever felt that you don't “fit neatly” into a category, you're not alone, and you're included here.
LSESU has a number of societies for students from Ethnic Minority backgrounds to get to know each other – you can check out the full list of all of our societies on this page. Becoming a part of a society is a great way to find home away from home, and get to know students who come from a similar background to you. You can check out our National and Cultural Societies below.
Build confidence, clarity, and community with someone who's been there. The Ethnic Minority Mentoring Scheme connects ethnic minority students with LSE alumni to share knowledge, guidance, and support across academic, personal, and professional development.
What the scheme involves:
You're matched with an LSE alum based on preferences and shared goals.
Mentor/mentee pairs meet regularly from November to July, with structured support, training, and networking opportunities.
You'll be asked to connect at least once a month — it works best when both people commit.
Impact:
478 alumni mentors have participated since the scheme launched in 2018, contributing over 5,700 volunteering hours. The scheme was also nominated for a National Diversity Award in 2023 (Race, Religion & Faith category).
Find out more or register your interest here or by checking out the dedicated Ethnic Minority Mentoring Scheme page here.
LSE Careers runs a dedicated Race Equity-focused careers programme for Black, Asian, and diverse-heritage students, including tailored appointments, an employer panel series, and networking events. More information can be found here.
If academic language, classroom culture, or “how things work here” feels unfamiliar, that's normal, and it doesn't mean you're behind.
The LSE Language Centre offers English for Academic Purposes support, proofreading and translation, and modern language courses. UK/EU undergraduates without a GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) in a language other than their own are also entitled to one free language course during their time at LSE.
LSE LIFE runs one-to-one advice and group workshops on academic writing, critical thinking, and communication skills, a good space to build confidence speaking up in seminars.
Peer learning and study groups are often run through societies and academic departments. Ask your Academic Mentor or department office what's available for your programme.
Talk to a Safe Contact (confidential, trained staff)
Safe Contacts are trained LSE staff who offer a confidential, signposting conversation if you've experienced bullying, harassment, or discrimination. They aim to respond within 1–2 working days and offer an appointment within 5 working days (figures per focus-group facilitator's notes.
2. Report + Support (online reporting and support options)
Report + Support is LSE's online tool where you can report incidents — anonymously or with your details — and access guidance and support routes.
3. LSESU Advice Service (practical guidance)
LSESU Advice offers confidential support on issues like housing, academic processes, and funding, and can help you think through next steps if you're unsure where to start. Appointments can be made in-person or online.
Not sure what to do first?
If you want to talk it through before deciding, start with a Safe Contact or the Advice Service, then decide whether to use Report + Support.
We’ve created a Welcome guide for all Black students- if you’d like to pick up a physical copy, swing by the SU offices, or peruse the PDF below!
This page will only stay useful if it keeps growing. If you've found a resource that's missing, or want to suggest something for a future update, let us know.
Suggest a resource via this form
Get in touch with the Ethnic Minority Officer to raise an issue, give feedback, or get involved in a campaign
Join or start a conversation in a relevant society, many of the ideas on this page are things students can help shape directly!
Site design by Elliot Parker.