Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Mortgage Solutions. Read the original article for full details.

BMPAN Evolves from One-Off Event to Industry Movement

The Black Mortgage Professionals & Allies Network (BMPAN) began as a single event in 2024 and has since developed into an ongoing movement within the mortgage industry. The latest episode of the Diversity and Inclusivity Finance Forum (DIFF) podcast explored the network’s origins, mission, and achievements.

The podcast, hosted by Jemel Edwards of Mortgage Solutions, featured BMPAN co-founders Atlyn Forde and Aleka Gutzmore. They discussed how the network was created by Forde, Gutzmore, and Jeffrey Krampah-Williams after recognising a lack of safe spaces for Black mortgage professionals to connect and support each other.

Before BMPAN’s formation, Forde was part of a small WhatsApp group of Black mortgage professionals. The group noticed that, despite seeing each other at industry events, there was no dedicated space for meaningful connection. In the lead-up to Black History Month, Forde and Krampah-Williams decided to organise an event themselves, bringing Gutzmore on board for her creative input. The first event coincided with the Black History Month theme of ‘Reclaiming the Narrative’.

Gutzmore stated that the initial event was intended as a one-off, but BMPAN has since organised six to seven events focused on career development, collaboration, and professional enhancement. The network’s activities centre on supporting individuals and fostering a sense of community within the industry.

Forde highlighted the importance of breaking down barriers that Black professionals face in the mortgage sector. She emphasised that employers and industry leaders have a role to play in promoting inclusion and ensuring equitable treatment for both professionals and customers. BMPAN aims to influence leadership structures and share best practices to address these challenges.

The network’s mission includes increasing awareness of barriers within the industry and advocating for greater representation in senior leadership positions. Forde noted that, while there has been progress in the industry, the most significant gaps remain at the leadership level. BMPAN plans to make further announcements to help organisations, lenders, brokerages, and networks implement practical changes.

Letting agents and inventory clerks may find BMPAN’s focus on inclusion and leadership relevant as the network seeks to influence industry standards and promote equitable practices across the property sector.