Local communities and businesses have praised Leicester’s first Black History Month Awards, which were a dazzling success last week.
The event, which took place last Wednesday (November 13) saw a string of awards given to inspiring and talented individuals across Leicester’s Black community.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Held at Winstanley House, in association with the Royal Air Force, the event was a glamorous affair attended by a diverse crowd of community members including Bhupen Dave, the Lord Mayor of Leicester, Rob Nixon, Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police and Leicestershire’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Colonel David Young.
Suleman Nagdi MBE DL was highly commended within the Lifetime Achievement category.
He expressed his gratitude following the event, which was organised by Pukaar Group.
“Your dedication and commitment to celebrating the contributions of the Black community are truly inspiring,” he said.
“The contributions of the Black community to this country span a multitude of fields, including the arts, sciences, politics, social justice and so much more. Their history is not just theirs; it is our shared history and an integral part of British history, weaving a rich tapestry of experiences, achievements, and cultural influences that have profoundly shaped our nation.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
“From pioneering figures in literature to trailblazers in civil rights and public service, the impact of the Black community is both profound and far-reaching.
“Acknowledging and celebrating these contributions enriches our cultural heritage and highlights the ongoing journey toward equality and justice.”
Awards were presented in various categories, including business, media and community service, recognising the hard work and dedication of those who have made a significant impact in their respective fields.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
One of the highlights of the night was the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented to Agnes Nisbett for her decades of service and commitment as a former midwife, setting up the ‘Born Whilst Sleeping’ programme. The audience gave a standing ovation as she delivered a moving acceptance speech, expressing gratitude and calling for continued efforts to support and uplift the black community.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
A second lifetime achievement award was presented to Professor Ivan Browne, former Director for Public Health for Leicester City Council, at the forefront leading the city through the Covid-19 pandemic.
John Lewis & Partners were given the Special Events Award on the night.
“I just wanted to express our sincere thanks on behalf of the John Lewis team and our guests for the fantastic Black History awards ceremony last week,” said Bob Gill, Head of Branch.
“It was wonderful to recognise and celebrate so many worthy winners and I hope this awards ceremony becomes a regular event going forward.”
Picture credit: Pukaar News
In the Business category ‘Soul and Sculpt’ – a Leicester based community fitness group was triumphant.
It is run by Naomi Tansey and Siobhian Johnson, who were delighted by their win.
“Thank you for such a beautiful and inspiring evening,” said Naomi.
“It’s been such hard work to get where we are, and for our project to be recognised tonight is just incredible.”
Picture credit: Pukaar News
Simon Phillips was given the Media Personality Award.
“I was humbled to receive this award which came 30 years almost to the day since I started my radio journey,” he said.
“What made it special was I got to receive it in front of key people who knew me as a child and played very important roles in my early love of music.”
Picture credit: Pukaar News
The event was supported by organisations such as De Montfort University, BBC Radio Leicester, POS 247 and Pukaar Magazine.
One of the keynote speakers was Flight Lieutenant Luke Nettleford of the Royal Air Force.
Rob Nixon, Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police, also spoke about the importance of Black History Month, praising the event.
“Anything that brings people together to celebrate achievements and celebrate the Black community has got to be a good thing,” he said.
“Black History Month is a really important part of the calendar. It’s not just an opportunity to recognise the journey and the heritage and pay tribute to that, but it’s also an opportunity to amplify and put a magnifying glass on the good work that is going on – celebrating all those who are making such a difference in the communities of Leicester.”
The full list of winners and highly commended:
YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD
Winner: Charmaine Marufu
Highly Commended: Joel Fearon
COMMUNITY AWARD
Winner: Paul Brown
Highly Commended: Cheryl Armatrading
MEDIA PERSONALITY AWARD
Winner: Simon Phillips
Highly Commended: Kevin Ncube
WORKING PROFESSIONAL AWARD
Winner: Meldin Thomas QPM
Highly Commended: Gina Samuel-Richards
BUSINESS / SPECIAL EVENT AWARD
Winner: Soul and Sculpt
Special Events Award: John Lewis & Partners (Leicester)
Highly Commended: Inspector Yakub Ismail
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Winner: Agnes Nisbett
Winner: Ivan Browne
Highly Commended: Suleman Nagdi
