Professional Development

Action Learning Sets for Black People and People of Colour

Led by Michelle Thompson, Founder and Director of LiA

This series of Action Learning Sets provides a dedicated space to reflect, learn, and grow alongside others with shared lived experiences.

What Are Action Learning Sets?


Action Learning Sets are a powerful approach to professional and personal development, bringing together small groups of individuals to explore real-life challenges in a structured and supportive environment. Through reflective discussion, insightful questioning, and shared learning, participants gain new perspectives, build confidence, and develop practical solutions to their challenges.

Programme Details

Session Dates:

3rd September 2025 – 1st April 2026

Programme consists of eight sessions, held once a month on a Wednesday from 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM BST/GMT


The first seven sessions will be held online via Zoom. Our final session on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, will be an in-person gathering in Birmingham. This will be a special closing event to connect face-to-face and consolidate our learning. Please consider your travel arrangements for this session. Exact location details will be shared with enrolled participants in advance.

Thank you for your toolbox of "resources made simple" . I shall be looking at them more closely and I know they will definitely help me break down the jargon, so that I can actually put some key steps in place. 

Most of all thank you for holding the space during the Action Learning sets. These truly were a massive gamechanger, I especially appreciate the encouragement to make space for silence, both as a recipient and questioner. As well as gaining clarity about my business identity, the past 6 months have helped me reconnect with my own identity and experience  personal growth, due to many coinciding factors. 

— Jaycee (ALS Participant).


Meet the Facilitator

Michelle Thompson


Advocate for Women's Well-being & Empowerment:

Founder of Learning in Action (LiA)and co-founder of The Lounge UK, a community organisation dedicated to the well-being of Black women, partnering with Black female-led businesses.


Experienced Facilitator & Educator:

She holds a BPhil in Community, Youth and Play, a PGCert in Organisational Development and Change, a PGCert in Learning and Teaching in HE, is a FHEA fellow and has extensive CPD training and development in facilitation, safeguarding, and leadership.


Empowering Individuals and Businesses:

Designs and leads action learning facilitation for social entrepreneurship programmes with the School for Social Entrepreneurs. Provides one-to-one mindset transformation for young people and adults seeking to start businesses or achieve sustainable lifestyles.

This programme is specifically designed for:

Social Entrepreneurs

Ready to refine your vision, strengthen your projects, and accelerate your impact.

.

Facilitators
Looking to enhance your skills, deepen your understanding of group dynamics, and inspire greater engagement.

Leaders

Committed to fostering positive change within your organisations and communities, and seeking to lead with greater purpose.

Investment

Invest in Your Professional Growth and Community

This programme is designed to deliver consistent, in-depth professional development and foster a lasting community connection over eight months. When you consider the sustained support, expert facilitation, and transformative insights gained throughout the programme, the value becomes clear.

 Sponsored by an Organisation or Business

£850 + VAT

Individuals who are Self-Paying

£650 + VAT

Individuals who want to pay in instalments

Please contact us via the tab below to discuss payment plans.

What Your Investment Includes:


  • Eight in-depth, expertly facilitated Action Learning Set sessions: Benefit from structured, monthly sessions that drive deep learning and practical problem-solving.
  • Direct guidance from Michelle Thompson, Founder and Director of LiA: Learn from an experienced facilitator dedicated to your growth.
  • Purposeful placement within an intimate group of 5-6 peers: Enjoy a dedicated, small group setting designed for maximum individual engagement and richer shared learning experiences.
  • A unique and understanding space tailored for Black and Brown social entrepreneurs, facilitators, and leaders: Be your authentic self, connect with like-minded peers, and expand your expertise in a supportive environment.
  • A proven framework for exploring challenges and developing actionable solutions: Gain a structured approach to addressing real-world professional and business hurdles.
  • Sustained professional development and community connection over an 8-month period: Benefit from consistent growth and lasting relationships built over time.
  • Develop ALS facilitation skills: Designed to enhance your curiosity, leadership style and communication in professional settings

What Participants Are Saying:

"This session was so powerful. It left me in tears. It gives greater depth and appreciation for each project and the participant. Made me feel more committed to do well and fully engage with the process so we all do well." – West Midlands Session Participant

"So welcoming and friendly. Michelle is brilliant and after she shared her why I felt even more fortunate to have her as my facilitator. Great couple of days and amazing to be able to surround myself with people who ‘get it’, learn together and from each other." – West Midlands Session Participant

"It was excellent with some truly inspirational stories and identified where we are all at on the start of this journey. A great way to understand each other and how we can support each other." – West Midlands Session Participant

 Take The Next Step

Whether you're prepared to commit to our transformative 8-month program or wish to experience a session first, we have an option for you.

Option 1: Experience a Taster Session (Free)


Curious about how Action Learning Sets can transform your professional and personal journey? This free taster session is your perfect opportunity to experience the unique and supportive environment of our programme.

On July 21st at 7:30 PM BST, you'll have the chance to:


  • Meet Michelle Thompson, our expert facilitator, and hear about her approach.
  • Gain a clear understanding of the Action Learning Sets process and how it fosters deep learning and practical solutions.
  • Connect with potential peers from a community of like-minded Black and Brown social entrepreneurs, facilitators, and leaders.

Discover firsthand if this programme aligns with your goals for growth, connection, and impact. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

OR

Option 2: Secure Your Place in the Full Programme


If you're ready to invest in sustained professional development and deep community connection starting this September, secure your spot today. This is your opportunity to gain profound insights, build lasting relationships, and significantly expand your expertise.