London, UK – 17th March, 2026
The Taylor Bennett Foundation (TBF) has announced that global communications agency Burson will join its award-winning communications Training Programme, delivering a new flagship course designed to help prepare the next generation of diverse communications talent for careers in the industry.
The programme, first launched in 2008, is a fully paid full-time, 8-week training initiative aimed at increasing ethnic diversity across the public relations and communications profession. It combines practical communications training, industry masterclasses, mentoring and professional development support to help participants build the skills, networks and confidence required to secure entry-level roles in the sector.
Since its launch, more than 350 graduates have completed the programme, with 97% securing employment following completion.
Through the partnership, Burson will lead dedicated training days within the programme, providing trainees with hands-on insight into the practice of modern communications – from reputation management and media engagement to strategic advisory work.
The agency’s teams will also mentor trainees and contribute to the programme’s practical learning experience, which includes campaign development, media exercises and a final strategic presentation.
Koray Camgöz, CEO of the Taylor Bennett Foundation said:
“Our mission is to unlock high-potential talent the industry often overlooks and equip them with the skills, networks and confidence to thrive in communications.”
“Welcoming Burson as a programme partner is an exciting moment for us. The firm’s expertise in building and protecting reputations for some of the world’s biggest brands will give our trainees invaluable insight into strategic communications and the role it plays in shaping organisations and society.”
“We’re grateful to Simon Redfern and the team at Burson for their support and commitment to developing the next generation of communications talent. It takes leadership to invest in future talent, and Burson is helping set that example for the industry“
Participants in the PR Training Programme attend weekly partner training days, industry masterclasses and mentoring sessions, while also completing practical assignments and employability workshops designed to help them transition into the workplace.
Graduates of the programme join the Foundation’s growing alumni network, many of whom now hold roles across leading agencies, corporations and public institutions.
Simon Redfern, CEO, Burson UK said:
“We are incredibly proud to collaborate with the Taylor Bennett Foundation on this vital new flagship course. This programme underscores our commitment to nurturing the next generation of diverse talent and equipping them with the skills to excel in our industry. The entire team at Burson is excited to welcome the participants and to help drive meaningful, long-term progress on diversity across the communications sector.”
Burson will also be recognised as a Platinum Partner within the Taylor Bennett Foundation’s newly launched Employer Partner Network, a structure designed to deepen collaboration between employers and the Foundation while supporting long-term progress on diversity across the communications industry.
Apply now
Applications are now open to Black, Asian and ethnically diverse candidates aged 18+ who have the right to work in the UK and are interested in exploring a career in communications. The programme begins on 26 May.
For more information and to apply, visit the website.
Notes to editors
About the Taylor Bennett Foundation
The Taylor Bennett Foundation is an award-winning UK-based charity that inspires young people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds to pursue careers in PR and communications. It offers fully paid training, mentoring and internship programmes in partnership with leading consultancies and FTSE 100 companies, and works with employers to build more inclusive workplace cultures. Since 2008, the Foundation has supported more than 1,400 young people.
About Burson
Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP). Learn more at www.bursonglobal.com.