Breaking barriers,
building futures.
Born from a desire to share success with the next generation, Aleto Foundation has spent 15 years unlocking the potential of young leaders from under-represented backgrounds across the UK.
Our Story
Born from a belief that talent deserves opportunity
The Aleto Foundation was born from the Powerlist — a compilation celebrating the most influential UK leaders of African or Caribbean heritage. Founded by a group of British people of colour, Aleto was created to contribute to society by addressing the barriers that hinder upward mobility for talented individuals from challenging backgrounds.
Drawing on their own lived experiences, our founders set out to make a lasting difference — guided by our motto: "Sharing success with tomorrow's leaders."
From the beginning, we proved to employers that our programmes could identify exceptional talent often overlooked by traditional pathways. Over time, our reach has expanded beyond our original focus. We now support future leaders from diverse and challenging backgrounds, regardless of heritage or location within the UK.
Today, 15 years on, Aleto continues to grow — broadening our programmes, deepening our partnerships, and strengthening the community of alumni who carry our mission forward in their own careers and communities.
"Sharing success with tomorrow's leaders."
The Aleto Foundation MottoOur Founder & Chairman
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Every success story begins with a spark of opportunity. Through mentorship, support, and unwavering belief in potential, we've helped young leaders overcome barriers, achieve their dreams, and inspire change in their communities. These stories are a testament to the power of resilience, guidance, and opportunity in transforming lives and shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE was born in Nottingham in 1951. His early life in an economically disadvantaged household instilled in him a lifelong belief in the power of opportunity and education. He attended local state schools, becoming Head Boy at High Pavement Grammar School, before earning a place at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge — where IBM awarded him a scholarship that launched a remarkable career in technology and finance.
Sir Ken spent over 40 years at the forefront of technology and capital markets, becoming the first British-born Black man to serve as a Director of a FTSE-100 company (Reuters). He founded two technology merchant banks — Interregnum and Restoration Partners — and has served on the boards of major corporations including Thomson Reuters, ENRC, and Open Text.
In 2015, HM The Queen appointed him as Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London — His Majesty's personal representative in the capital. He was knighted in 2018 for services to business and philanthropy, and in 2021 was appointed High Bailiff and Searcher of the Sanctuary at Westminster Abbey.
Sir Ken founded the Aleto Foundation driven by his own experiences and a desire to ensure that talent — wherever it comes from — is given the opportunity it deserves. His personal motto says it all: "Do well. Do good."
Breaking barriers,
building futures
2025 has been one of our most meaningful years yet. Read our latest annual report to see the full depth of our community's impact — the stories, the numbers, and what comes next.
Help us shape the next 15 years
Every donation directly funds the programmes, mentoring, and support that change the trajectories of young people's lives. Join us in building a more inclusive future.
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