Sometimes there are words that are mocked for being ‘PC’. But when we examine what life is like without diversity and inclusion, it gives us a clue as to why this is so important.

There is no aspect of British cultural, business, medical and social life that would be of any value, were it not for the inclusion of the broadest possible spectrum of our population; and within that inclusivity a diversity of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disabilities and all kinds of other elements.

Because that’s the kaleidoscope of humanity, and unless our institutions recognise and reflect that kaleidoscope, they are a pale, valueless simulacrum of what they should be.

So, forget those who sneer and mock about these being ‘key buzz words’; and remember their real value, which is human. To this day we can see all around us examples where there’s still work hugely needed to include and embrace everyone.

Throughout the year, there are some individuals who work tirelessly – often without thanks and with small budgets – to remove barriers and put diversity at the very heart of everything they do.

On February 10th, The National Diversity Awards once again celebrated those unsung heroes who go above and beyond the call of duty to improve the lives of others in the communities around them.

This elite pick and mix of diversity ambassadors gathered in London at Microsoft offices – reuniting all past and present award winners from over the years. Because this was not just any ordinary reunion, this was The Ultimate National Diversity Awards Reunion. The first time EVER that ALL award winners collaborated in such spectacular fashion.  

NDA Founder Paul Sesay said ‘It’s like being among friends. Every time I enter a room with all of my NDA family I feel uplifted, motivated, and inspired by their courageous journeys.

It’s important we take a moment to look at all the astonishing individuals that have been recognised by The National Diversity Awards over the past few years for their outstanding work in the name of diversity’.

Since the inception of the awards in 2012, over 60,000 nominations and votes have been received demonstrating the sheer volume of role models and community groups devoting themselves to enhancing inclusion.

Amongst the line up of keynote speakers addressing the 200 strong audience members was internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Rachel Gadsden.

Rachel has battled successfully against a potentially life limiting illness to produce works of art that are applauded worldwide. Collecting the positive role model award for disability in 2013, Rachel said “It truly was a tremendously uplifting emotional evening, and I don’t think there was a single person in the room who would disagree with that! The evening represented everything that is good about our society.

‘Thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating an exceptional night, the challenges ahead are still enormous, but with the ND Award in my hand, I will journey forward with renewed hope and ambition to try to do so much more, and in my efforts, hopefully I will, in some way, contribute to making the vital cultural shift within our society.”

Changing Faces Founder James Partridge also made an appearance alongside Touch Trust Founder Dilys Price, both of whom were awarded OBE’s for services to the disabled over a decade ago.

The two Lifetime Achiever honourees reunited to reflect on their outstanding achievements and journeys since receiving their award.

‘Since receiving my award, the Touch Trust has received double the amount of referrals’. Said Dilys, ‘I feel like I have been given a shot of adrenalin being here today, an overwhelming feeling of hope. Paul has created something very special though these awards’.

Founder of Warrington Disability Partnership, Dave Thompson MBE, and 2013 recipient of the disability Entrepreneur of Excellence award, also shared his journey.

Dave acquired his disability at the age of 31 when a sports accident left him paralysed, having to use a wheelchair full time, and finding services hard to obtain set about developing a data base of information for disabled people.

The partnership he established has negotiated a myriad of contracts with public and private sector concerns, all of which have resulted in not just a successful business, but services of very high quality for disabled people.

Dave was joined by Dyslexia Association Ambassador Sarah Chapman. Having dedicated her time and efforts to improving the lives of people with dyslexia, a visibly emotional Sarah said, ‘This award is for anyone who was ever told that they would never amount to anything’.

There is no doubt that the impact made by this prominent array of diversity patrons is unprecedented. As the awards continue to flourish, the awareness of nominees is increasing, and the growth of support and funding is rising for recipients.

There is still so much to change and fight for, but the National Diversity Awards continue to be an exceptional way to celebrate the courageous actions of individuals, companies and organisations, who are already striving for inclusion.