Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion: The 2024 Diversity Awards Winners in Glasgow
The Herald & GenAnalytics Diversity Awards recently took place at the prestigious Radisson Blu hotel in Glasgow, honoring individuals, charities, and employers who are dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in society. The event was a joyous occasion, recognizing the outstanding efforts of those working tirelessly to break down barriers and create a fairer and more inclusive environment for all.
One of the standout winners of the evening was Enable Works, a commendable organization that received the Diversity Through Education award for its Stepping Up Programme. This initiative focuses on assisting school leavers with disabilities in securing employment opportunities, highlighting the importance of providing equal access to the workforce for individuals of all abilities.
Another deserving recipient of an award was the Allander Resource Centre, which was recognized with the Diversity in the Public Sector Award. The center’s dedication to supporting individuals with various learning disabilities, both within their purpose-built facility in Milngavie and out in the community, was lauded by the judges as a vital and inclusive service that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.
Milngavie Football Club also received well-deserved recognition, winning the Diversity in Sport title sponsored by sportscotland. The club’s commitment to making sports accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities sets a commendable standard for inclusivity in the sporting world, inspiring others to follow suit.
Amina – The Muslim Women’s Resource Centre was commended in the Diversity in Sport category for its tireless efforts in promoting equality and diversity. The organization’s work serves as a beacon of empowerment for Muslim women, advocating for their rights and representation in society.
Recognizing Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion
The Diversity Awards ceremony was a platform for celebrating organizations and individuals that have shown exceptional dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in various sectors. Women in Property, a group that received the Diversity In The Third or Charity Sector award, was praised for its efforts in breaking down stereotypes and inspiring young people through outreach programs in schools.
The Diversity Campaign of the Year award went to financial services firm, abrdn, for their impactful campaign ‘What You See and The Real Me’. This bold initiative was commended for its focus on vulnerability and authenticity, leading to a positive shift in the company’s culture.
MusicALL Pathways was honored with the Design For Diversity title for their outstanding work in providing music programs to neurodivergent and disabled young people. The organization’s efforts in developing social and life skills through music were applauded by the judges and the audience alike.
Empowering Communities and Inspiring Change
Powering Futures was the recipient of the Diversity In Net-Zero Leadership Award for their work in inspiring young people to pursue low-carbon careers. The organization’s commitment to environmental sustainability and inclusivity sets a positive example for the future generation of leaders.
Nichola Kane, editor of STV News, was named the Diversity Hero of the Year for her dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion in the newsroom through the STV Expert Voices program. Kane’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives in media was recognized as a significant contribution to promoting representation and inclusivity.
The Diversity and Inclusion Champion awards were presented to Ng2 Ltd and Balfour Beatty for their exemplary practices in fostering inclusivity within their respective organizations. Ng2 Ltd’s proactive approach to recruitment and inclusive working practices were commended, while Balfour Beatty’s commitment to diversity inclusion in the infrastructure sector was highlighted as a standout achievement.
Honoring Trailblazers and Change-Makers
The Judge’s Award was bestowed upon KnowVate Hub, an entrepreneurial support network dedicated to empowering underrepresented ethnic minority communities. The organization’s commitment to building a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Scotland was recognized as a catalyst for positive change and economic growth.
Dr. Julie McElroy was honored with the Lynne Connolly Achievement in Diversity Award for her remarkable contributions to the field of assistive technology and her trailblazing achievements, including becoming the first female frame runner to complete the London Marathon. McElroy’s resilience and advocacy for diversity and accessibility serve as an inspiration to many, embodying the profound impact of dedicated advocacy for inclusivity and empowerment.
The 2024 Diversity Awards ceremony was a testament to the collective efforts of individuals, organizations, and companies dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in society. Each award recipient showcased a commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for all, inspiring positive change and fostering a culture of acceptance and respect.