The Reach (Race, Ethnicity And Cultural Heritage) Events Scholarship Initiative has confirmed the University of Greenwich as its 2026 university partner. The programme, now in its fourth year, aims to increase access to careers in events and hospitality for students from diverse backgrounds.
Greenwich, which has one of the UK’s most diverse student communities and a strong events and hospitality programme, will host the next round of scholarships.
Mary Ivers, associate director of external engagement at the university, said: “We’re delighted to partner with REACH Events Management Scholarship to create meaningful opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds in the events and hospitality industry.”
She added: “This collaboration reflects our commitment to inclusive education and ensuring all our students have the support and connections they need to build successful careers in their chosen fields.”
Robert Kenward, co-founder of Reach, added: “Confirming the University of Greenwich as our 2026 partner is a brilliant next step for Reach and for the students we exist to support. As we enter our fourth year, we’re moving from good intentions to durable impact. This is about longevity and legacy: a community-led programme that keeps widening who gets to thrive in our sector.”
The 2026 scholarships will again be sponsored by DRPG, which has supported the initiative since its launch.
CEO Dale Parmenter said: “Breaking into the events industry shouldn’t depend on where you’re from or who you are. It should be about what value you can bring to the industry and how someone’s natural talent can be nurtured and grown.”
He added: “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t necessarily. That’s why we’re backing the REACH Scholarship again for 2026, this time with the University of Greenwich.”
The announcement follows the launch of ‘Reach 2.0’ last month. The restructure set out a new governance model, an advisory board, and working groups to support operations, fundraising, coaching, alumni, and PR.
The initiative also aims to expand the number of scholarships from three to five each year.