UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards: Celebrating Champions of Inclusivity

Organisations and individuals who have excelled in promoting diversity and inclusion were honoured at the first-ever UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards held in Northampton. This groundbreaking event highlighted the remarkable achievements of those dedicated to fostering equity in various sectors.

The inaugural ceremony took place on 25th July at the Waterside Campus, University of Northampton. The evening was co-hosted by Northern Irish comedian William Thompson and British singer-songwriter Misha B, both of whom brought an extra layer of charm and enthusiasm to the celebration.

Honouring Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards winners are as follows:

• 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

Celebrating Leaders and Innovators

Lydiah Igweh, the founder of UnderOne, expressed her enthusiasm and pride in the event. She 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.”

Igweh’s words encapsulate the spirit of the awards, which are not just a celebration but also a call to action. The honourees were chosen for their innovative and impactful contributions to creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.

A Grand Finale to the UnderOne Festival

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 opportunities, all designed to foster dialogue and collaboration among those working to break down barriers and create inclusive spaces.

Corporate Sponsorship and Support

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Awards were proudly sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery, Clyde & Co, and the Race Forward Podcast. These sponsors played a crucial role in bringing the event to life, underscoring their commitment to supporting DEI initiatives.

Asif Sadiq, Chief Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Warner Bros. Discovery, remarked,

“As the headline sponsor of the 2024 UnderOne Festival, we at WBD are proud to support this inspirational platform that champions diversity, equity & inclusion through innovative ideas and connection. Together we are creating a more inclusive future for everyone.”

Alan Holmes, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Clyde & Co, shared his thoughts on the event, stating,

“Clyde & Co were delighted to sponsor the inaugural UnderOne Festival and Awards this year. Both the festival and awards were a fantastic opportunity to bring together thought leaders and build a united approach to develop more inclusive workplaces and communities. The festival’s energy was palpable and acts as a great springboard for professions in the diversity, equity and inclusion space to continue their great work with the deserved recognition.”

For more information on the awards, please email hello@underonediversityinclusionawards.com

To celebrate Staff Network Day, we are highlighting the positive impact Employee Resource Groups have on individuals and organisations worldwide.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are pivotal in nurturing diversity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging in organisations worldwide. Research underscores their positive influence on employee engagement, retention, and overall company performance. Prioritising the establishment and growth of ERGs leads to a more collaborative, innovative, and productive work environment. By championing ERGs, companies enhance cultural representation, elevate employee satisfaction, and foster stronger workplace communities.

A striking 61% of professionals affirm that ERGs contribute to their professional development. This statistic underscores ERGs’ significance in supporting career growth and advancement. These voluntary, employee-led groups provide valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, skill-building workshops, and a supportive community, enhancing professionals’ learning and development within the workplace.

Moreover, 48% of companies have established ERGs to bolster diversity and inclusion initiatives. This proactive step signals a commitment to fostering an inclusive culture where every employee feels valued and supported, thus cultivating a more diverse and equitable workplace environment.

It’s time to honour the remarkable contributions of ERGs in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within organisations. Nominations are now open for the Trailblazing ERG Award at the UnderOne Diversity & Inclusion Awards. If you know of an ERG making a significant impact, nominate them today!

Better be quick, as nominations close on 3rd June.

UnderOne Diversity & Inclusion Awards are part of the UnderOne Festival taking place from 24^th – 25^th July at the University of Northampton.  Visit www.underonefestival.com for more information.

Clyde and Co, a leading global law firm, has been announced as the diamond sponsor for the upcoming UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards, set to take place on July 24-25th at the University of Northampton Waterside Campus. The firm’s sponsorship highlights its commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within organisations and communities.

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards, a flagship event dedicated to celebrating and advancing diversity and inclusion, will be hosted at the University of Northampton Waterside Campus. Clyde and Co’s support as the diamond sponsor signifies its dedication to promoting DEI initiatives and creating inclusive environments.

Alan Holmes, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Clyde and Co, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “At Clyde and Co, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation, creativity, and success for our people, firm and clients. We are proud to support the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards as it aligns with one of our core values of celebrating difference.”

In addition to their role as the diamond sponsor, Clyde and Co will also serve as category sponsors for the Inclusion in Sustainability Award, recognising organisations that demonstrate outstanding commitment to integrating DEI in sustainability practices.

Moreover, Clyde and Co will host the “Curiosity and DEI Conversations” drinks reception, providing attendees with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion in a relaxed setting.

Lydiah Igweh, advisory board member of the UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards, emphasised the significance of Clyde and Co’s sponsorship, stating, “We are thrilled to have Clyde and Co as our diamond sponsor and category sponsor for the Inclusion in Sustainability Award. Their partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.”

The UnderOne Diversity and Inclusion Festival and Awards aims to unite individuals, organisations, and communities to celebrate diversity and inclusion achievements while fostering dialogue and collaboration for meaningful progress.