A groundbreaking student at the University of Chester is spearheading an initiative to support Black female academics in Northern England.

Postgraduate Research student Chiedza Ikpeh has co-founded the RARA Education Project and the Sister Scholars network, devoted to empowering Black women scholars throughout the UK.

RARA, standing for Real and Authentic Representations of African and Caribbeans, provides a platform for these women to connect, inspire and promote professional growth.

Sister Scholars is a branch of RARA, put together by Ms Ikpeh and Iman Federico Awi.

Both RARA directors envisioned this network to deal with the challenges Black academics face, with the mutual support of others in their field.

Ms Ikpeh is currently pursuing a doctorate at the University's School of Education.

The Sister Scholars network has planned its first networking brunch for Saturday, September 14 in Manchester.

This event focuses on uniting Black women from different academic fields, those who are at the beginning of their careers and those who are more settled.

The brunch aims to create a sense of community, encourage excellence and provide opportunities for national collaborations.

Ms Ikpeh has said: "With great anticipation, I look forward to seeing the Sister Scholars network gain recognition and momentum.

"This initiative is a reflection of my commitment to ensuring that Black women in academia have the social support and capital they need to succeed and thrive in the academy.

"I believe in the power of community and through Sister Scholars, the team at RARA is creating a space where Black women scholars can progress through their journey through the academy knowing that they have a tribe behind and beside them."

Giving additional perspective, Dr Chandrika Devarakonda, associate professor in the School of Education said: "Chiedza is passionate about empowering Black women through creating social support networks to inspire each other.

"This will be a unique opportunity to raise the profile of Black women in academia."

Further details about the upcoming brunch and more information on RARA can be found on online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sister-scholars-uk-networking-brunch-tickets-918356086777?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm-source=cp&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing.