In October 2026, BHOM26 will shine a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of Black role models in Mathematics and Mathematics Education.
On 7–8 October 2026, the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), International Centre for Mathematical Sciences (ICMS) and the London Mathematical Society (LMS) are partnering with Big Ideas to deliver an inspiring two‑day celebration — featuring both the renowned Black Heroes of Mathematics Conference and an exciting new Youth Festival.
A global, free, hybrid conference Join us from anywhere in the world as we bring together mathematicians, educators, students, and advocates to honour Black excellence and explore the future of mathematics.
A nationwide Youth Festival for UK schools The Black Heroes of Mathematics Youth Festival will run virtually, giving schools across the UK the chance to engage with powerful stories, interactive sessions, and inspiring mathematical role models. Schools wishing to take part can email maths@big-ideas.org.
Be part of the movement. Be part of the celebration. Follow the conversation at #BLACKHEROESMATHS
Timetable (all timings in BST)
Both days chaired by Dr Luke Davis.
Wednesday 7 October
| 12:00 | Lunch & Registration |
| 13:00 | Welcome & Housekeeping |
| 13:10 |
Dr Jason Anquandah (in person) More Than Numbers |
| 13:50 |
Dr Herbert Daly (in person) Models, Methods and Misunderstandings |
| 14:30 | Refreshment break |
| 14:50 |
Dr Justine Najje (online) Survival Analysis to Artificial Intelligence: A Mathematical Journey Towards Better Health in Africa |
| 15:30 |
Oluwaseun Olushola (in person) Population dynamics for a Daphnia-based biofiltration technology |
| 16:10 | Break |
| 16:40 | Panel discussion |
| 18:10 | Reception |
Thursday 8 October
| 10:00 | Welcome |
| 10:10 |
Dr Nneka Umeorah (in person) Becoming a Mathematics Researcher: My Journey Through Finance, AI, and Networks |
| 10:50 |
Kofi Jackson |
| 11:30 |
Imoleayomide Ajayi Extending Chamberlain’s Law for AI Fairness: A Probabilistic Framework for Quantifying Structural Disparities in Algorithmic Decision-Making |
| 12:10 | Lunch break |
| 13:00 |
Professor Alain Zemkoho (in person) |
| 14:00 | Panel |
| 15:30 | End |
Please note that speakers and timings may be subject to change.
Accessibility:
This event will take place in the Lecture Theatre in the Bayes Centre at the University of Edinburgh.
The room is on the 5th floor and is accessible via lift, and there is an accessible toilet close to the room on the same floor.
Please see the AccessAble page for further details.
If you have any accessibility questions not covered by the above, please contact lmsmeetings@lms.ac.uk.
Registration:
Registration is now open. For more details about the event, including how to register, please click the following link: Black Heroes of Mathematics 2026
Grants are available to those who need help with caring costs to attend the event. For further details and information on applying, visit the LMS website.