The Minority Ethnic Talent Association (META)


META was founded in 2006 with the aim of supporting talented staff of ethnic minority background to develop their potential and become leaders in the Civil Serviceas outlined in the Cabinet Office strategy ‘Promoting Equality, Valuing Diversity’.

Growing Talent

The cross-Whitehall Growing Talent programme was launched in 2007 by Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O’Donnell. The programme is designed to foster the leadership potential of talented ethnic minority colleagues and equip them to succeed at a high level, through personal mentoring by senior civil servants and targeted development sessions, coaching and networking events.

The second Growing Talent Programme launched on 17 March 2010 with 14 participants from 11 government departments.

Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O’Donnell said:

“I am delighted to welcome META’s Growing Talent, which I believe will contribute towards building a more diverse and professional Civil Service. Growing Talent will help participants towards becoming the leaders of tomorrow and will give them the opportunity to work with colleagues at the highest levels.”

Claudette Sutton, META Chair & Programme Director

Joining META

If you would like to apply to join META, please download and complete the application form, and send it to:

For information about the benefits of joining META, call the META Team on 020 7238 5221

META in the News

Read about the Growing Talent pilot