‘Diversity is not a passing trend but the future’, said renown author and broadcaster June Sarpong as she delivered a powerful keynote address at the British Diversity Awards, held on Wednesday (19) at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London.
“We need to make a truly compelling argument for the role of allies and the important role they have to play in creating a fairer society,” she added, urging for broader engagement in the fight for inclusion.
Speaking to an audience of business leaders, activists, and policymakers, Sarpong addressed the growing backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, particularly in corporate spaces. She emphasised the need to engage everyone—especially those who feel alienated by these discussions—highlighting that inclusion benefits society as a whole.
Sarpong urged allies to step up, stressing that the fight for equality must move beyond rhetoric to meaningful action. The event, which celebrated champions of diversity across industries, also acknowledged the challenges ahead, reinforcing the message that diversity remains a vital force in shaping the future of workplaces and communities.”
She urged attendees to bring more people into the conversation, emphasising that progress requires collaboration.
Among the winners were Monzo, named Company of the Year, and Cindy Ngamba, who won Athlete Powering Positive Change for representing the Refugee Olympic Team.
The event also recognised Kanya King with a Lifetime Achievement Award, while Christine McGuinness was named Media Champion of the Year.
Linda Riley, founder of the British Diversity Awards, addressed concerns about the challenges facing DEI efforts. She said: "Diversity isn’t something you sign up for when it’s convenient. It’s here to stay, and we must keep pushing forward." She stressed the importance of changing the narrative around diversity and using evidence to demonstrate its impact.
The event honoured individuals and organisations for their contributions to diversity and inclusion.
Future Leaders UK was awarded Charity or Not-For-Profit of the Year, while Sky UK Ltd won Diversity Team of the Year.
Gemma Webb (Barratt Redrow) was named Head of Diversity of the Year, and Prasad Hattikudur (Deutsche Bank) won Diversity Champion of the Year.
The Diversity Knows No Discrimination initiative by Paramount won Global Diversity Initiative of the Year, while HSBC UK received the Diversity in Tech (Specific to Disability) award for its HSBC Empathy Box project.
- Outstanding LGBT+ Role Model – Laks Mann (Metropolitan Police)
- Outstanding Disability Role Model – Kush Kanodia (Panathlon)
- Outstanding Race & Ethnicity Role Model – Ezechi Britton (Centre for Finance, Innovation and Technology)
- Outstanding Gender Role Model – Jackie Henry (Deloitte)
- Outstanding Socio-Economic Contribution – Jodie Hinds (Jodie Hinds Photography)
- Marketing Campaign of the Year – The FA (Football Your Way)
Apsana Begum
