Strength from diversity: LGBTQ+ Defence Awards illuminate trailblazers in inclusion
The UK's flagship celebration of defence inclusion returned last night for an energetic evening that showcased leadership, resilience and the link between defence inclusion and national security.
The talents, achievements and trailblazing advocacy of LGBTQ+ leaders and allies, as well as inclusive employers across UK defence, had the spotlight on them last night as 500 military and business leaders gathered for the third LGBTQ+ Defence Awards.
This year's event had extra resonance as it marked 25 years since the end of the UK's LGBT service ban.
The finalists spanned all branches of the Armed Forces, plus the civil service and wider defence industry, recognising the pioneering individuals and organisations leading the drive for a more inclusive, productive and representative defence community.
The electrifying award ceremony took place in the iconic Grand Hall at the Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden, London and was hosted by comedian and broadcaster Zoe Lyons.
Entertainment from Britain's Got Talent winner and Korean War veteran Colin Thackery and a bold keynote address by Colonel Grace Sangster-Wall, one of the most senior trans service members, drew rousing standing ovations by the energetic audience.
Peter Gibson, Chief Executive of Fighting With Pride, official charity partner of the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards, said: "The LGBTQ+ Defence Awards are an incredible opportunity to showcase and celebrate the exceptional talent and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals and teams in the defence industry, and the value gained by inclusive organisations.
"Our sincerest congratulations go to all the winners and finalists, helping to recognise those that inspire diversity, inclusion and equity in defence.
"We are proud to see the UK now leading the way with a high-profile platform which recognises LGBTQ+ people in the defence community and demonstrates that strength is truly delivered through diversity."
The awards are sponsored by leading employers including BAE Systems, Thales, Amazon, Babcock, Maersk, MBDA and PA Consulting.
Winners were selected by an independent judging panel featuring leaders from the Ministry of Defence, British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, DE&S, Leonardo, Imperial College London and the Scottish Prison Service.
Amanda Wood, Group Social Sustainability Director at BAE Systems, headline sponsor of the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards, said: "These awards recognise real focus in our sector to create workplaces where everyone feels valued and can bring their whole self to work.
"At BAE Systems, we are working hard to build an inclusive culture that allows all employees to perform at their best, enabling our business to innovate, to grow and to thrive.
"I'm incredibly proud of our 3,000-strong LBGTQ+ employee resource group, OutLink UK.
"Their work, together with many others across the business and the insight they bring, is vital in helping us maintain momentum on this important company journey."
THE WINNERS
Armed Forces Leader of the Year
Flt Lt Jordan Stafford-Boutwood, Royal Air Force
Rising Star of the Year
LCpl Liam Cole, British Army
Advocate of the Year
Cpl Arran Vice, Royal Air Force
Inspiration of the Year
Maj Stephanie Hayward, British Army
LGBTQ+ Network or Initiative of the Year
Army LGBTQ+ Network
Role Model of the Year
Ruth Mills, Naimuri
Team Leader of the Year
Sqn Ldr Edward Bindloss-Gibb, Royal Air Force
Lord Etherton Veteran of the Year
Kate Holvey-Williams, Royal British Legion
LGBTQ+ Trailblazer of the Year
Satia Rai, International Professional Security Association
Ally of the Year
Caitlin Hayden, BAE Systems
Outstanding Achiever of the Year
AB1(INT) Liam Bell, Royal Navy
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