Inclusive Networks, the UK’s network group hub, is delighted to introduce the inaugural Inclusive Networks Awards. The awards will celebrate and reward the work and positive impact of network groups from all diversity strands and from all sectors – something unique and the first event of its kind in the UK.
The awards will also recognise the people who make the networks live and breathe, many of whom volunteer substantial amounts of their own time, as well as thank the organisations that support and encourage their work and that of an inclusive society.
What makes these awards different is they celebrate and reward the work of the doers, individuals and teams who show an extraordinary amount of commitment and dedication to supporting employees, the wider community and help influence the views of the wider public on their perception of the organisations they represent through their work.
We’re saying thank you.
The categories are:
- Employee Network of the Year (there will be a category for each diversity strand)
- Professional Network of the Year
- Inter-Sector Network of the Year
- New Network of the Year
- Network Member Engagement Initiative of the Year
- Network Event of the Year
- Charity/Community Group Collaboration of the Year
- Network Collaboration of the Year (collaboration with another network)
- Network Team of the Year
- Network Chair/Co-Chairs of the Year
- Inspiring Member of the Year
- Senior Champion of the Year
- Employer of the Year
- Special Recognition
Thomas Anderson, Founder and Chief Executive of Inclusive Networks said:
“The awards are a fantastic opportunity to share and celebrate the fabulous and inspiring work of network groups, individuals and inclusive organisations all over the UK. These awards will celebrate the people who coordinate the networks and make their positive output a reality. It’s important that businesses understand multiple identities amongst staff and these awards will bring networks together and celebrate the work of networks of all diversity strands on a level playing field.”
Speaking to Inclusive Networks, Nicky Morgan MP, Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities, said:
“It’s clear that network groups can make a very real contribution to the workplace, helping create a culture which values diversity and attracts the best talent. I would certainly encourage any company to reward staff who give something back to the workplace and their communities.”
We appreciate some networks are smaller than others so less people may know of your work so self-nominations are also encouraged. There is nothing wrong with giving yourself a pat on the back. It’s about the quality of the nominations and not the volume of nominations per network received.
We aim to showcase the best out there with the help of our esteemed panel of judges that include John Amaechi OBE (Former NBA Player and MD of Amaechi Performance Systems), Vanessa Vallely (Founder and MD of WeAreTheCity) and Elly Barnes (Founder and CEO of Educate and Celebrate).
Nominations are open now and close on 17th July 2015. The shortlist will be announced in mid August. You can find out more and nominate at www.inclusivenetworks.co.uk/awards/
The awards will be presented at a special awards reception being held at ‘Band on the Wall’ in Manchester on 19th November 2015. Our charity partner for the event is the wonderful anti-bullying charity Ditch the Label.
To find out more, email the Inclusive Networks team at [email protected] and follow them on Twitter @IncNetworks
