Young Black professionals from across the West Midlands gathered for ‘The Torch Exchange’, an Excell3 leadership series designed for outstanding leaders to pass on their knowledge, insight, and expertise to the next generation.
This latest event featured Derrick Anderson CBE, Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands. As His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, Dr Anderson serves as the King’s representative in the region and is widely recognised for his transformative public leadership.
He built his reputation as a highly successful Chief Executive in Wolverhampton before leading the dramatic turnaround of Lambeth Council. His journey demonstrates to young Black professionals that excellence, courage, and service can open doors to the highest levels of public life.
A featured photograph captured Dr Derrick Anderson CBE (right) with event co-hosts Sean Bailey (left) and De Andrea Cameron (centre) at Excell3’s Torch Exchange leadership event. Excell3 Chair Dr Cheron Byfield Shakespeare opened and closed the event, emphasising the importance of representation and community in shaping future leaders.
“The Torch Exchange is about creating spaces where lived experience, leadership, and legacy intersect,” she said.
“This is how we shape the leaders of tomorrow.” Dr Anderson shared candid reflections on navigating leadership as a Black professional, overcoming barriers, and leading with purpose.
Attendees used live polls to guide the conversation, followed by an engaging Q&A session. Co-hosts and Excell3 alumni Sean Bailey and De Andrea Cameron brought energy, relatability, and insight into the discussion.
One attendee reflected: “It was inspiring to hear such an honest perspective on leadership.
“The interactive format made it feel like our voices mattered.” The event concluded with overwhelmingly positive feedback, reinforcing ‘The Torch Exchange’ as a vital platform for empowering the next generation of Black British leaders.
Excell3 is a UK-based leadership and personal development organisation dedicated to empowering young people and emerging professionals. Through mentoring, training, and community-focused programmes,
Excell3 equips individuals with the skills, confidence, and character to lead and make a positive impact.