(Learning In Action)

LiA

Your partner in creating a more equitable world

Empowering Change

LiA is a dynamic consultancy dedicated to empowering organisations and individuals to create a more just and equitable world. We specialise in providing tailored training, consulting, and community-building services that address pressing social and organisational challenges.

More about LiA

White Affinity Group: Advancing Anti-Racism for White People

We are delighted to announce the second iteration of the White Affinity Group: Advancing Anti-Racism for White People, a programme for white people wanting to develop their anti-racist skills.

Our programme is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to challenge racial injustices effectively.

Through our immersive experience, you'll:

Navigate uncomfortable emotions like guilt, confusion, and resentment.
Foster open and honest cross-racial relationships.
Identify and interrupt unconscious biases that impact daily interactions.

Ready to take action?

Start here

What we offer:

Community Development

At LiA, we bridge the gap between organisations and those they serve. We specialise in unlocking the voice and power of YOUR communities.
. We go beyond traditional methods to gain deeper insights into your clients, customers, and community's needs and aspirations. Our unique blend of proven methodologies fosters genuine connections and uncovers the heart of your community's needs.

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Racial Equity and Social Justice

We offer tailored training and coaching services to help organisations across different sectors deepen their understanding of racial equity and social justice. Our services include anti-racism training, racial affinity spaces, and racial justice consulting. To learn more about our current initiatives, click here to discover our 10-week white affinity programme starting November 24th with Amy Barbor.

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Community Building

LiA is committed to strengthening communities through targeted programs, partnerships, and engagement strategies. We address racial inequities by supporting Black businesswomen to increase efficiency, sales, and navigate the barriers they face. To learn more about our community-building initiatives, click below.

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Meet the Founder and Co-director

Michelle Thompson and Amy Barbor are the dynamic duo leading LiA, (Learning In Action). Driven by a passion for social justice and empowerment, they co-lead Lia to create a positive impact on organisations and individuals in the UK.

Michelle Thompson has always advocated for women's well-being and empowerment. Motivated to create positive change, she founded LiA (Learning in Action), a consultancy dedicated to helping organisations explore their purpose and understand their impact on the world. Through tailored training and workshops, LiA equips teams with the tools to foster meaningful social and organisational change.

In addition to LiA, Michelle co-founded The Lounge UK, a community organisation committed to supporting the well-being of Black women. The Lounge UK partners with Black, female-led businesses and organisations focusing on improving women's lives. The Lounge UK builds a community space for Black women, offering resources and support to enhance their personal and professional lives.

Michelle’s passion for racial equity led her to partner with Amy Barbor. The two met while co-designing a programme for Black social entrepreneurs. Amy is a consultant, educator, and facilitator specialising in designing and delivering programmes and workshops focusing on racial equity and social justice.

Trained by US academic and author Dr Robin DiAngelo, Amy works closely with Robin to lead white affinity spaces. This collaboration ensures that the spaces are designed to the highest standards, building the skills and perspectives of white individuals and empowering them to engage more constructively in cross-racial dialogues.

Michelle and Amy’s shared values and commitment to racial equity inspired them to co-lead LiA, shifting its purpose to centre racial justice and empowerment.

Together, they continue to advance LiA's mission, ensuring that the organisation remains a powerful force for positive social impact.

Meet the rest of the team

Clapham Park Futures

LiA is proud to partner with Impact on Urban Health on the Clapham Park Futures initiative. Working with Metropolitan and Thames Valley Housing (MTVH), we have been working to revitalise the Clapham Park Estate community by working with residents to design activities and services that address their needs in areas such as health, employment, and community-based business opportunities.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

EFFICIENT & CREATIVE

"Michelle is a creative, innovative visionary. She is a natural leader, and under her guidance and mentorship, I have developed more confidence in my approach to building my business. Michelle and I have collaborated on various projects, and her natural ability to connect with and understand your vision is amazing."

Cherrill Hutchinson

- Black Women's Kindness Initiative

GOAL ORIENTED

"Michelle’s sessions have helped me to be more organised and independent. She has taught me how to deal with my emotions by using my skills. Michelle has given me sets of tasks to solve any of my issues. Also, she has made me think hard about my thoughts and decisions. My health and well-being have improved a lot because of these sessions. Michelle had helped me on finding out who I am. Finally, Michelle’s Sessions have helped me understand what I want to do and achieve in the future."

Young Man, Aged 19

- Start Again Project

INNOVATIVE IDEAS & SUPPORT

"We felt compelled to do this review for this particular business mainly because of Michelle and her team's unwavering support over the years. LIA’s innovative ideas helped bring my business ideas into fruition twofold of what we ever envisaged. We dearly cherish this business relationship and certainly look forward to further collaborations."

Althea Hamilton

- Big Nanny's Hair Products