Reach announces University of Greenwich as 2026 university partner and DRPG named as second-time donor

Written by Guy Humphrey

30 September 2025

News

We are proud to confirm that we will be sponsoring sponsor the Reach (Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage) programme for the 2026 intake of students at the University of Greenwich, having been one of the first to support the programme since its inception.

The announcement of the scholarship initiative and the partnership with the University of Greenwich aligns the programme with one of the UK’s most diverse student communities and a leading centre for events and hospitality education.

Mary Ivers, Associate Director of External Engagement, University of Greenwich, 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. 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, said: “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.”

Our CEO Dale Parmenter added: “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. 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. This programme isn’t about ticking boxes, it’s about making real, lasting change. Creating an industry that’s truly representative and inclusive for the good of everyone. We just need to step up and make room at the table. It’s that simple.”

This announcement follows the launch last month of ‘Reach 2.0’ - a legacy-driven restructure that formalises governance, strengthens delivery, and sets a clear path to scale scholarships from three to five per year. The refreshed model introduces an Advisory Board to steer strategy, operations and decision-making, supported by active working parties across social, PR, coaching & alumni, events and fundraising.

About the Reach Events Scholarship

Launched in 2022, Reach provides £5,000 per year for three years to support Black, Asian and underrepresented minority ethnic students on events management degree programmes.

Scholarships are funded by industry donors who pledge £5,000 per year for three years. Beyond funding, Reach integrates students into the working world through work experience, internships, networking and employment opportunities facilitated by its partner network.

To date, Reach has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Hertfordshire; the University of Greenwich now joins as the confirmed 2026 partner.

 

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