The 2024 Inclusive Awards unveiled this year’s diversity and inclusion champions at a ceremony in Manchester on 28th November.
Now in its 10th year, the event organised by Inclusive Companies, honoured trailblazers in equality, diversity, and inclusion across eight categories, thanks to sponsors TalkTalk, E.ON, and myGwork. With entertainment from the MDA – MYDC Dance Academy and the Sing Out Gospel Choir, the evening celebrated individuals and organisations dedicated to driving meaningful change in workplaces and communities.
Sean Fletcher, journalist and TV presenter, returned as the evening’s host for a second year. Sharing his personal connection to the cause, Fletcher said, “Championing inclusivity is a cause close to my heart. Without workplaces and leaders who prioritised diversity, I wouldn’t be where I am today. It’s an honour to be part of this celebration of inclusivity in businesses across the UK.”
RECOGNISING DEI EXCELLENCE
An independent panel of judges sought out individuals and organisations demonstrating a deep and genuine commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Winners were selected from a wide range of sectors, including education, media, utilities, charities and community initiatives.
The prestigious Lifetime Achiever Award was presented to Susan Daniels OBE, Chief Executive of the National Deaf Children’s Society, in recognition of her pioneering contributions to advancing inclusion. This year’s charity partner was Fire Fighters Charity, chosen in memory of Wayne Brown, a passionate diversity advocate and Chief Fire Officer at West Midlands Fire Service. Proceeds from ticket sales and donations supported the charity’s ongoing work.
“We are proud to be an inclusive employer and delighted to be part of this inspiring event,” said Sherine Wheeler, Chief Executive of Fire Fighters Charity. “It was an honour to celebrate diversity and inclusion while paying tribute to Wayne Brown’s remarkable legacy.”
ADVANCING DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
The evening also revealed the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers (IT50) List, with UK Power Networks taking the top spot, followed by Touchstone in second place and Which? in third. This definitive list highlights best practices across all strands of diversity, including age, disability, gender, LGBTQ+, race, faith and religion. Additionally, the 2024 Diversity Power List honoured 50 champions of inclusion and diversity, recognising their impact within their industries and their unwavering commitment to creating a more equitable society.
Reflecting on a decade of progress, Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies, shared: “Over the last 10 years, we’ve come a long way in advancing diversity and inclusion. However, we cannot be complacent. By spotlighting our winners’ achievements and giving them a platform, I hope the Inclusive Awards will inspire others to follow their example and drive lasting change.”
INCLUSIVE AWARDS WINNERS
This year’s inclusive awards winners, and highly commended, by category include:
Head of Diversity & Inclusion:
- Winner: Shelley Bishton (News UK)
- Highly Commended: Annika Allen (All3Media)
Consultancy of the Year:
- Winner: The Clear Company
- Highly Commended: A New Normal
D&I Tech Initiative:
- Winner: Global Equality Collective
- Highly Commended: Zero Gravity
Inclusive Culture Initiative:
- Winner: Anglo American – Domestic Violence Policy & Awareness Campaign
- Highly Commended: Kin + Carta – The IDEA Programme
Outstanding Diversity Network:
- Winner: OutMakingGames
- Highly Commended: BBC Enigma
Social Mobility Project:
- Winner: Bridgend College
- Highly Commended: Happy Smiles Training
Diversity Team of the Year:
- Winner: United Utilities People, Culture & Engagement Team
- Highly Commended: OVO Belonging Team
Chief Executive of the Year:
- Winner: Jo Williams, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
- Highly Commended: Arfan Hanif, Touchstone
Lifetime Achiever:
- Awarded to Susan Daniels OBE, Chief Executive of the National Deaf Children’s Society
The 2024 Inclusive Awards served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion, celebrating those who are building a brighter, more equitable future for all. Click here to see all the shortlisted nominees.
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