OBV shortlisted for European Diversity Awards

Operation Black Vote were recognised at the inaugural European Diversity Awards which took place in September after being shortlisted as a nominee in the 'International Politician of the Year' category'.

The Awards, headline sponsored by Google, are designed to showcase individuals and organisations who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

The nomination came in the week of OBV's 15th Birthday, and is a welcomed recognition of the work OBV have done, and also a reminder of why OBV was established and of the continue need to challenge inequality.

Mark Palmer-Edgecumbe, Head of Diversity, Google and Chair of Judges of the European Diversity Awards said,

The European Diversity Awards represent a unique and exciting opportunity for organisations to demonstrate their commitment to diversity and inclusion across Europe. For the organisations and individuals that are shortlisted, the EDAs provide tangible recognition for the inspiring and incredibly valuable work that they are doing - work that sadly often goes unnoticed.

The category OBV had been shortlisted for - International Politician of the Year - recognised the outstanding contribution of politicians in the field of equality, diversity and inclusion and was open to politicians from governments across Europe as well as members of the European Parliament. Operation Black Vote was nominated for the numerous mentoring programmes - such as the Cllr and MP Shadowing Schemes - which inspire and nurture a new generation of BME politicians.

Operation Black Vote's Francine Fernandes who is the Head of Shadowing Schemes said,

We are naturally thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious award and credit must go to the BME community and the mentors on our programmes who have readily taken up the challenge to tackle inequality. Many of our graduates have risen to the challenge of public office, creating a positive change at local, national and European level and their contribution is a beacon of the value of diversity.

Operation Black Vote would also like to extend their congratulations to the other nominees and winners and applaud their efforts in championing diversity. These include Cllr Sanchia Alasia - a graduate of OBV's MP Shadowing Scheme and Barbara Lindsay MBE who has worked tirelessly as public servant for many years. Click here for more information on the awards.

OBV Staff Reporter

Picture: OBV staff members and interns