The Black Barristers’ Network (BBN) was founded in 2019 by Natasha Shotunde & Mavis Amonoo-Acquah to provide support and increase the visibility of Black Barristers within and outside of the profession.
The Bar is a difficult profession for individuals from non-traditional backgrounds to enter and statistics show that Black Barristers are particularly underrepresented. Once within the profession, Black Barristers are faced with a number of issues that are unique to them. With Black Barristers spread out across different chambers and organisations, the Bar can feel like an isolating place. BBN is a platform to meet and provide support for one another. BBN also campaigns for change within the profession to address the barriers to entry and progression.
BBN's core mission is to promote the growth of Black Barristers across England and Wales through support, visibility and community outreach.