The EDI Committee hosted two events in 2025 that were both well-attended. In July, the committee hosted a drinks reception at the Royal College of Surgeons.
The reception was attended by over 80 members and all that came along enjoyed the networking opportunity.
In October, the committee hosted an event in Bristol before CIPA Congress. Alex Rogers of HLK LLP gave a very insightful and interesting talk about Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Brunel’s thoughts on IP. Andrea Brewster, former CIPA President and found of IP Inclusive, and Greg Iceton, EDI Committee Chair gave updates about IP Inclusive and the EDI Committee, respectively.
The Committee also co-hosted events, including a joint event with CITMA for Black History Month and a joint event with Women in IP for International Women’s Day.
As well as events, the Committee led the design of the new EDI banner, now displayed at all CIPA events and featured in artwork for two podcast episodes of Two IPs in a Pod. They submitted an open letter to the EQE secretariat advocating for improved reasonable adjustments in European exams and consulted with PEB regarding reasonable adjustments for the UK exams.
Finally, the Committee assisted with writing and publishing the second CIPA Journal focusing on EDI matters.
CIPA & CITMA EDI Event: Celebrating Black Excellence in IP
As part of Black History Month, CIPA and CITMA hosted Celebrating Black Excellence in IP, featuring a panel with Dr Rachel Daniel (IP21), Ese Akpogheneta (BAT), Gifty Gakpetor (IP Together Limited) and Anita Shaw (Caldwell), chaired by James St Ville KC (8 New Square). The speakers discussed their routes into the profession, the challenges they have faced and the importance of community support and outreach to schools in raising awareness of IP careers for future generations. You can read more about the event here.
The London Legal Walk 2025
In June, some CIPA staff members took part in the London Legal Walk, joining thousands of professionals to raise funds in support of access to justice. The annual 10km event brings together organisations across the legal sector to help sustain over 100 free legal advice charities.
If you would like to participate in the 2026 event, please visit the London Legal Support Trust online.
The Toy Project Christmas Drive
In December, staff supported The Toy Project’s Christmas toy drive by donating new and pre loved toys for children and families in need. Their contributions helped ensure that more young people received gifts during the festive season, supporting the charity’s mission to promote play, reduce waste and bring joy to communities across London.