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The ceremony brought together leaders, professionals, and representatives from diverse backgrounds, creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and appreciation. Attendees included prominent figures from the corporate sector, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and the minority communities themselves.To create an inclusive and diverse society in Northern Ireland where minority individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds  are valued , respected and empowered. Several awards were presented in recognition of excellence and significant contributions made by individuals from minority communities. These awards covered a wide range of categories, including Advancing Diversity & Inclusion Advocate, Arts, Media & Advertising, Design & Fashion including Hair & Beauty, Hospitality (Food ,Restaurants & Takeaway…), Inspiring Champion. The ceremony also featured inspiring speeches from guest speakers who shared their perspectives on diversity, inclusion, and the importance of recognising and celebrating achievements within minority communities.Overall, the first Minorities Recognition Awards ceremony in Northern Ireland was a resounding success, shedding light on the talent, resilience, and positive impact of individuals from minority backgrounds in various sectors. The event served as a catalyst for future initiatives and collaborations aimed at creating more inclusive workplaces, communities, and societies as a whole.

Dr Nisha Tandon CEO and founder of ArtsEkta has been recognized as an “Outstanding Nisha’s incredible accomplishments and dedication to empowering minority communities Achiever” at the inaugural Minorities Recognition Awards ceremony in Northern Ireland have made a significant impact on society

Dr Nisha Tandon has been recognized as an “Outstanding Achiever” at the inaugural Minorities Recognition Awards ceremony in Northern Ireland. Nisha’s incredible accomplishments and dedication to empowering minority communities have made a significant impact on society.
Nisha Tandon, a visionary leader and social entrepreneur, has played a pivotal role in fostering diversity and inclusivity. As the founder and CEO of a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, she has tirelessly worked to bring people from
different backgrounds together and create a more harmonious society. Through her innovative programs and initiatives, Nisha has provided a platform for marginalized communities to express themselves, share their experiences, and celebrate their culture. She has collaborated with educational institutions, community centers, and arts organizations to offer opportunities for minority individuals to connect, learn, and grow. Nisha’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades and recognition for her work. At the Minorities Recognition
Awards ceremony, Nisha was commended for her outstanding achievements and her commitment to improving the lives of individuals from minority communities. In her acceptance speech, Nisha expressed her gratitude for the honour and emphasised the importance of unity, understanding, and respect among diverse communities. She encouraged others to join in the journey towards creating an inclusive society where everyone’s contributions are valued and celebrated. Nisha Tandon’s recognition as an “Outstanding Achiever” at the Minorities Recognition Awards ceremony serves as an inspiration for individuals
who are striving to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Her work exemplifies the power of advocating for diversity and inclusion, and we look forward to witnessing her continued success in championing social change.

In Northern Ireland, the pursuit of racial equality is a cornerstone of a just and equitable society. Through initiatives such as anti-racism training,community outreach
programs, and advocacy efforts, individuals and organizations are working tirelessly to dismantle systemic barriers and promote understanding. By embracing diversity and celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of our communities, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious future for all

the business landscape is constantly evolving, these five tips
remain timeless and essential for success in 2024: Prioritize Customer Experience: In the age of digital transformation, customer experience is more crucial than ever. Ensure your products or services meet and exceed customer expectations. Use feedback to refine your offerings and build strong relationships.Embrace Technology: Technology can streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer interactions. Invest in tools that align with your business goals and stay updated on industry trends.Focus on Sustainability: Consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental and social issues. Incorporate sustainable practices into your business model to attract environmentally conscious customers and contribute positively to the planet.Build a Strong Online Presence: A well-optimized website and active social media presence are
essential for reaching your target audience. Use digital marketing strategies to increase brand visibility and drive online sales.Foster a Positive Company Culture: A positive company culture can boost employee morale, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Create a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and motivated.

When young people see role models who look like them, they are inspired to believe in their own potential. The Minorities
Recognition Awards provide these essential role models,
demonstrating that success is attainable regardless of one’s
background. By recognizing and honoring these individuals, we are sending a powerful message that diversity is a strength, and that everyone deserves to be celebrated.
As we empower the future, we are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and just society. Let us continue to champion the Minorities Recognition Awards and inspire the next generation to reach for the star

Here are some innovators who have made a substantial impact in various fields: Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon: A renowned computer scientist and advocate for diversity in
STEM. She is the CEO of Stemettes, an organization dedicated to inspiring young women into careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Dr. Gordon Sanghera: Co-founder and CEO of Oxford Nanopore Technologies, a company pioneering the development of nanopore sequencing technology, revolutionizing DNA sequencing. Reshma Sohoni: A prominent figure in the startup ecosystem, she is the managing partner and co-founder of Seedcamp, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology
startups across Europe. Priya Prakash: A social entrepreneur and designer who founded Design for Social Change
(D4SC), a platform that connects designers with social and environmental challenges. Dr. Sam Shah: A digital health advisor and entrepreneur who has worked on various
projects related to healthcare innovation and digital transformation. These individuals, among many others, have demonstrated exceptional talent, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Their achievements serve as inspiration for future generations and highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in innovation.

This esteemed recognition goes to an individual who has displayed extraordinary dedication, perseverance, and leadership in empowering change and breaking barriers for minority communities The award winners have been an inspiring force within our community. They have tirelessly
advocated for equal opportunities and shattered stereotypes through their exceptional work and commitment. Their unwavering passion and strategic vision have led to impactful initiatives that have uplifted and transformed the lives of countless individuals

(NextGen)

Jo’ tireless efforts in raising awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusivity have also gone beyond his local community. He has taken part in national and international conferences, sharing his experiences and insights on a global scale. His impactful speeches and thought-provoking
presentations have inspired countless individuals to become agents of change. Jo’ remarkable journey continues to inspire those around him. His unwavering commitment to dismantling inequalities and promoting diversity has earned him the admiration and respect of his peers. Being
recognized as a highly commended inspiring champion in the Diversity Awards is a testament to his dedication and unwavering spirit As we celebrate the achievements of individuals like Joseph Ricketts, we are reminded of the power that each of us holds to make a difference.
Through our collective efforts, we can create a world that embraces diversity, respects individuality, and ensures equal opportunities for all.

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Publication

In a world facing increasing environmentalchallenges, sustainable living offers a path toward a more equitable and prosperous future for all. By adopting eco-friendly practices and making conscious choices, individuals and communities can reduce their environmental footprint, conserve resources, and create healthier, more resilient ecosystems. From reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable agriculture, sustainable living empowers individuals to take action and
contribute to a more sustainable and just world

This year’s Diversity Advocate Awards, honoured individuals
who have made outstanding contributions in promoting
diversity and inclusivity both in the workplace and within the
wider community. These exceptional individuals have gone above and beyond to create a more inclusive environment and ensure equal opportunities for all. Let’s meet the winners:

Oyedamola Bolajoko

(Home Plus NI)

Oyedamola has been recognized as an outstanding advocate for diversity and inclusion in the community. Through their advocacy, leadership, and passion, [Name] has made a significant impact on fostering acceptance, understanding, and equality within our local community. Their dedication has not only helped to break down barriers but has also
inspired others to take action and stand up for equality. [Name] serves as a shining example of how individuals can make a profound difference in their communities by embracing diversity and advocating for a more inclusive
society.

Quarterly magazine Kicking the year 2024 off with: Ethnically Diverse women Network

We had a fantastic evening at Belfast Metropolitan College as we collaborated this year again with Women in Business NI and Diversity Mark and this time to hold the first multicultural network. The theme said it all “Building Confidence across cultures.” It was great listening to one of our MRANI 2023 winers Oyedamola Bolajoko talking  about her story as well as Maggie Ho , Simandini Sharma. Thank you to Polona Rogina who talked about the nominations for MRANI AWARDS 2024 that is now open and we will host an online session to explain more about how to nominate. (The ceremony will take place on the 04 of October at Titanic Belfast ) Keep an eye on our posts as the date will be shared soon. It was a fantastic experience and we are looking forward to see more people from our community connecting and learning more to continue boosting the confidence.
Great performance Tarangini Belfast. Thanks again to Orla McKeating and Christine White both at Diversity Mark.

This week , we celebrated the incredible achievements of women across Northern Ireland. From leaders in business and academia to those making a difference in their communities, women are at the forefront of positive change. We’re especially proud to recognise the contributions of ethnic minority women who often face additional challenges. Their resilience, strength, and determination are truly inspiring. Thank you to Nancy Brown brown at Ulster University Business School and the UU women Network for inviting us to this celebration. It was great listening to Monica McWilliams who was so inspiring seeing
her passion. Her global influence as she travels the world and inspires the ethnic minority women too brought warm to our hearts. Thank you Diane Wabo and Polona Rogina for representing us. Grateful to Dr. Shirley Davey and James Uhomoibhi for her support at UU.

Techstart Ventures, a leading investor in early-stage technology businesses in Northern Ireland, recently announced the availability of £4.5 million in proof-of-concept grants. This funding is designed to support entrepreneurs in exploring the viability and commercial potential of innovative ideas. Successful applicants will receive grants of up to £50,000 to validate their concepts, develop prototypes, and conduct market research. The Techstart Proof of Concept Grant Fund is a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to turn their ideas
into reality.

Thank you to Nicola Woods and John Ferris for their invaluable support of our From Vision to Venture Pitch Training sessions. It was inspiring to see so many passionate entrepreneurs come together to sharpen their pitching skills.! Ulster Bank’s Accelerator Program is a free, six-month program designed to support and empower UK entrepreneurs to scale their businesses. The program offers a range of benefits, including one-to-one coaching, networking opportunities, access to experts, and use of modern coworking spaces. By providing entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed, Ulster Bank’s Accelerator Program aims to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the UK