Mark Martin MBE joins the Apprenticeship Diversity & Social Mobility Forum speaker line-up

We are delighted to announce Mark Martin MBE CITP, co-founder of UKBlackTech, as a speaker at the next Apprenticeship Diversity & Social Mobility Forum.

Known as @Urban_Teacher, Mark is an Assistant Professor in Computer Science and Education Practice with expertise spanning artificial intelligence, data science, EdTech and digital skills. For more than two decades, he has worked to improve computer science education and expand access to opportunities within the technology sector.

As a Chartered IT Professional, Mark has advised government, leading technology companies, educational institutions and charities. His work focuses on developing home-grown talent, improving education equity and ensuring that people from underrepresented backgrounds can participate in the digital economy.

In 2017, Mark co-founded UKBlackTech, which has grown into one of the UK's leading technology communities championing innovation, digital transformation and greater ethnic diversity across the sector. He was awarded an MBE in 2019 for his contributions to education, technology and diversity, and was recognised among Computer Weekly's 50 most influential people in UK technology in 2022.

Mark's contribution to the Forum will bring an important education and technology perspective to the discussion, examining how AI is changing skills, teaching and routes into employment, as well as how organisations can ensure that these changes widen opportunity rather than reinforce existing inequalities.

Safaraz Ali MBE, Founder of the Apprenticeship Diversity and Social Mobility Forum, said:

“Mark has spent two decades helping people develop the digital skills needed to participate in a changing economy. His understanding of AI, education and diversity will bring an important perspective to the Forum. As technology reshapes learning and work, we must ensure that people from every community have the skills, confidence and opportunity to benefit.”

The Apprenticeship Diversity & Social Mobility Forum brings together leaders from business, education, government and the skills sector to challenge perceptions, promote inclusion and advance social mobility through apprenticeships and skills development.

The next Forum is being delivered in partnership with Compass Group UK & Ireland and Occupational Awards Limited.

• Event: Inclusion & AI
• Date: Wednesday, 23 September 2026
• Time: 2:00 pm–3:30 pm UK time
• Location: Online

We look forward to welcoming Mark to the Forum and hearing his insights on creating a more inclusive, skilled and AI-ready workforce.