Search begins for champions of diversity
AWARDS TO RECOGNISE INCLUSION INNOVATORS
KIRKLEES Council is celebrating the diversity of the district by launching the Kirklees Diversity Inclusion Awards.
Supported by the Royal Society of Arts, the awards will go to those who champion, deliver and find innovative ways to achieve diversity. The awards will become an annual event.
The aim is to recognise successful individuals, businesses and community organisations who regard diversity as a gift that cultivates an inclusive Kirklees, making the region a friendly and welcome place for everyone, regardless of their background, religion or economic status.
David Bundy, of the council’s Strategy and Policy Team, said: “We want to celebrate and shine a spotlight on the diverse nature of Kirklees and the valuable contribution this makes.
“Through our awards we want to recognise and reward organisations that are passionate about inclusion and diversity and inventive in their means of achieving it.
“We want to engage a wide spectrum of partners, including community groups and local business.”
The awards will recognise and reward organisations and teams that are passionate about inclusion and diversity, those who strive to include others who might otherwise be excluded from activities and opportunities and are inventive in the ways they achieve it.
Speaking at the launch council leader Shabir Pandor said: “We want to celebrate the diverse nature of Kirklees and the valuable contribution this makes to the district.
“Through our awards we want to recognise and reward organisations and individuals who are passionate about inclusion and diversity, showing innovation in achieving and promoting diversity.”
The launch has been supported by the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), a global community of proactive problem solvers, sharing powerful ideas, carrying out cutting-edge research and building networks and opportunities for people to collaborate, influence and demonstrate practical solutions to realise change.
Pamela Ball, RSA fellowship councillor (North), told those present: ”Diversity is not a luxury but a necessity.
“It should be more than a tick box exercise in our rapidly changing world, it is the way forward to sustainable development and growth.”
To find out more about the awards, to apply or to nominate someone go to www.kirklees.gov. uk/beta/inclusion-and-diversityawards/about-nominating.aspx
The awards take place on Friday, November 15.