Two Sussex Residents Nominated For National Diversity Awards

A woman from Hastings and a man from Crawley have been shortlisted for the UK's largest diversity awards.

Victoria Oldman from Hastings has been shortlisted for the Positive Role Model Award for Gender and Robert Groves’s founder of Quest4hope from Crawley West Sussex has been shortlisted for the­ Lifetime Achiever Award.

Hailed as the Golden Globes of the diversity world, The National Diversity Awards will be hosted by world renowned broadcaster, author, presenter and journalist Clare Balding CBE.

“I'm so looking forward to hosting these awards and giving everyone the chance to celebrate the substantial achievements of our fabulously diverse community across a whole range of industries, businesses and charities,” says Clare Balding CBE.

“It's an important spotlight on those who make the world a better place for the full rainbow of society.”

Ninety-thousand people were nominated this year alone and the results are now in for the National Diversity Awards (NDA), with 120 nominees being recognised for their various achievements nationwide.

Community organisations and role models from across the UK will head to Liverpool Anglican Cathedral on September 15 to witness the country's 2023 winners being crowned.

Amongst those being honoured are charities, campaigners and activists, all of whom work tirelessly to combat injustice and discrimination in different ways.

Victoria Oldman (she/her), co-director and organiser of the recently announced Trans Pride Hastings said:

“I’m absolutely stunned to have been shortlisted for a National Diversity Award and absolutely honoured to stand amongst so many amazing people in this category.”

Robert Groves, shortlisted for the­ Lifetime Achiever Award, said:

“To be shortlisted for an award out of 90,000 nominations is something I never imagined but I am so grateful for! Thank you to every single person that took the time to vote for me! It has been a huge boost after a couple of difficult years with the pandemic.

"It will truly be an unforgettable night at the National Diversity Awards 2023 with so many incredible people at the beautiful Liverpool Cathedral!"

“Everyone at Quest4hope works so hard for very little acclaim so this event is a fantastic showcase to raise awareness of disability sport, the seriousness of animal abuse, climate change and pollution in our oceans around the world”.

Paralysed in 2006 at the age of 50 and facing life in a wheelchair, Rob 'chose to fight preconceived ideas of just what was possible for someone who could feel nothing below their waist'.

Over the last 15 years Rob has raised over £250,000 for charities close to his heart - he is the only disabled person to have hand-cycled 2500 miles around the UK coast line in 27 days using only his arms. 

Since then, Rob has worked tirelessly to raise funds for many charities. In May 2014 he became a disabled endurance hand-cyclist. In 2015 He entered the original 24-hour non-stop endurance hand-cycle race, RIDE24. He cycled 10-15 miles per hour for 23 hours straight. He competed 245 miles - 91 Laps; he also qualified for Race Across America. He raised the much needed funds of £3,500 for Action Medical Research for young children. Also In 2015 he Hand cycled from Scotland to London over 600 miles in five days for Children in need and Aspire raising over £12,000. In 2017 he hand-cycled the coastline of England 2,500 miles in 27 days, raising thousands of pounds for five of his favourite charities.

Direct Line Group, Auto Trader and The British Army have recently been announced as sponsors of the pioneering awards that have paid tribute to thousands of grass root groups and diversity champions since its inception. ITV News are also listed amongst a host of companies showcasing their support to recognising diverse talent, providing a platform for unsung heroes.

Designed to highlight the country's most inspirational and selfless people, the NDA's continue to gain endorsements from high profile figures such as Sir Lenny Henry CBE and Graham Norton. Activist Katie Piper, Emmerdale star Ash Palmisciano and Paralympic Gold Medallist Danny Creates were on this year’s judging panel, dedicating their time to help choose the highly anticipated shortlist.

“Once again, I’m humbled by the sheer number of nominations we have received for individuals, groups and organisations showing outstanding commitment to enhancing equality, diversity and inclusion.,” says Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies and founder of the National Diversity Awards. 

“These Awards aim to celebrate the unsung heroes who are changing perceptions and lives through their dedication and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, they seek to inspire the next generation of diversity champions to be brave, stand up and make a difference to their communities.”

To view a full list of nominees please visit www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/awards-2023/shortlist/