Organisations and individuals who have excelled in promoting diversity and inclusion were honoured last night at the first-ever UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards held in Northampton.
The inaugural ceremony took place on 25 July at the Waterside Campus, University of Northampton. Northern Irish comedian William Thompson co-hosted the event alongside British singer-songwriter Misha B, who later performed a ‘surprise’ set to an appreciative audience. The evening commenced with a red-carpet reception, where nominees and guests showcased their elegant attire and engaged in lively discussions about the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Attendees were treated to a gourmet dinner, fostering an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie. The event concluded with a networking session, allowing guests to connect and share their own DEI journeys, ensuring the night’s conversations continue to inspire action beyond the awards.
The 2024 UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards winners are:
- Global Inclusion Excellence Award: Petrofac
- Trailblazer Employee Resource Group Award: Ardonagh Advisory – Disability Colleague Community Group
- DEI Innovation Award: Equal Measures UK
- DEI Rising Star: Tomi Laguda, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors
- Inclusion in Sustainability: Too Good To Go
- DEI Thought-Leader & Influencer Award: Flavilla Fongang, 3 Colours Rule Group
- Diverse & Inclusive Company Culture Award: Pan MacMillan
- Social Impact & Community Engagement Award: Jon Hering, Blackbullion
- Creative Diversity Campaign: Media Zoo, Neurodiversity
Lydiah Igweh, the founder of UnderOne, remarked:
“We are thrilled to recognise these remarkable individuals and organisations who have dedicated themselves to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in workplaces, communities, and society at large. While significant progress has been made, much work remains. By acknowledging these efforts and achievements, we pave the way for a more inclusive future.”
The awards ceremony marked the conclusion of the two-day UnderOne Festival, which gathered global DEI thought-leaders, business executives, and advocates passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion. The festival featured a series of panels, workshops, and networking sessions designed to foster dialogue and collaboration among participants. Topics ranged from innovative DEI strategies to the importance of allyship and intersectionality in the workplace.
Attendees had the opportunity to hear from keynote speakers, including Dr Asif Sadiq of Warner Bros. Discovery and Spanish politician Maria del Mar Galceran Gadea. Their speeches highlighted the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the DEI landscape, inspiring many to take actionable steps in their own organisations and communities.
Warner Bros. Discovery, Clyde & Co., and the Race Forward Podcast proudly sponsored the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards. Their support underscores the critical role that industry leaders play in championing diversity and inclusion initiatives. The sponsors’ commitment to these values was evident throughout the event, reinforcing the collective effort needed to drive meaningful change.
For more information about the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards, visit: www.underonediversityinclusionawards.com.
