Nominations have opened for the 2018 National Diversity Awards. Able Magazine are proud and delighted to once again be a media partner and award sponsor with the event.

Meanwhile, previous award winners have flocked to encourage the nation to recognise the very best of British diversity. 

“One person may have collected the award, but it was received by over 500 members.” Said Pamela Franklin, founder of the Caribbean Social Forum. Winning a National Diversity Award has helped me, personally, and by so doing it has taken the Caribbean Social Forum to another level and set us on a new path of success.”

Organisers are expecting an influx of entries as the annual ceremony has now re-opened its submissions to recognise role models and community organisations across the UK.

Echoing this sentiment is founder of Men Tell Health, Gary Pollard and winner of the Community Organisation Award for Gender; “For an organisation like us, one that’s so new, so small but with so many big plans, this prestigious award is forever going to be part of who we are and our gratitude goes to the NDA team who made it happen.”

“It has opened many new doors and given us so many more opportunities to take our work into a wider world, and for that, we’re eternally grateful” Said Gary. “If you think it’s not worth nominating someone because they’d never win, then we are proof positive that you’re wrong”.

With the ever increasing need for cohesion between communities from all walks of life, the National Diversity Awards is sure to deliver this year’s grandest celebration of diversity.

The Breathtaking Liverpool Anglican Cathedral will play host to the 2018 ceremony on September 14th. The UK’s most inspirational and selfless people will come together to honour the rich tapestry of our nation, recognising individuals and groups from grassroots communities.

The iconic awards have recently announced new supporters and returning sponsor, MI5. A spokesperson for the organisation commented, “We are at our strongest when we have the richest mix of the best talent, working together in an environment that allows people to thrive.  Put simply, our diverse workforce is crucial to our operational successes.  We are pleased to be able to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to inclusion through our continued support for these awards.  They are an important way of recognising and celebrating the good work being done across the country to promote inclusivity, diversity and to provide opportunity for all.”

The prestigious black tie event has also attracted a growing list of endorsements from celebrities who are actively supporting the diversity agenda including Sir Lenny Henry, Stephen Fry and Adam Hills.

“Promoting and celebrating diversity is close to my heart” said talk show legend, Graham Norton. “Which is why I am thrilled to support The National Diversity Awards! I want to wish all of this year’s nominees the best of luck for the ceremony; you all deserve to win!’’

Unfortunately, there can only be one winner for each of the 15 award categories; but with 20,000 nominations and votes received annually, The National Diversity Awards will no doubt showcase leading figures in the quest for a more inclusive society.

Founder & CEO, Paul Sesay said, “Unlocking Britain’s diverse talent and rewarding unsung champions remains at the heart of these awards.”

Sesay, who was fostered as a young child, is the passionate guiding light behind The National Diversity Awards, and has made it his mission to bring communities together.

“After an eye-opening year we look to those who represent progress, spirit and resilience. As we enter our seventh awards season, the game-changers and peacemakers who remain unheard will shine in the spotlight, and reach every section of society with their passion and positivity. I look forward to learning about this year’s nominees and witnessing their spectacular journeys.’

Able Magazine will again be sponsoring one of the disability awards categories. Editor, Tom Jamison said: I love the National Diversity Awards. They’re a reminder, in what are somewhat troubled and turbulent times, that there are people that will take a lead on diversity. Their passion deserves to be recognised, and the NDAs do just that.” Nominations will close on 1 st June – To nominate, please visit: nominate.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk