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EVERYONE’S A WINNER: Birmingham City manager Chris Hughton (left) with entertainer Patti Boulaye and the Mirror's sports writer Darren Lewis at the Black List awards 2009

AFTER THE recent riots across the country an initiative highlighting achievers from the black community in football will take place on October 20.

The Black List Awards, hosted last year by DJ Spoony, recognises the contribution of the black community for achievements across all levels of football and is supported by the Football Association, Professional Footballers’ Association, Kick It Out and the Black Collective of Media in Sport (BCOMS).

Founded by journalist Leon Mann and Voice sports editor Rodney Hinds in 2008, the initiative has fast become an indicator of the British African Caribbean community’s progress in the game.

It is the fourth year the initiative has taken place and despite facing some difficulties in finding funding, the show will go on next month. "It's been a huge challenge just making the Black List happen this year," said Mann.

"We couldn't find the match funding The FA required us to so we can't hold the event at Wembley but we've made good progress in recent weeks and should be confirming an even more impressive venue very soon. After the recent riots across the country. The Black List is needed more than ever. Young people need role models."

Mann added: “The Black List Awards is very special as it brings different parts of the black community together.”

The list goes beyond simply recognising the achievements of the growing number of black players taking to the field. Instead it emphasizes the community's contribution away from the thick of the action, acknowledging those working tirelessly at grassroots level and administrators operating and members of the media.

“It is not right that our community can have more than 25 per cent of players on the pitch but not have the same representation in other areas, in particular administration,” said Mann.

“You can expect to see a number of new names on the list that people aren’t quite familiar with, but will be very impressed with their achievements.”

“We need people to come forward with the people they believe are making a massive impact in the black community and are helping us move forward. We would like to ask them to look at what people have achieved in the last 12 months."

Would you like to nominate someone for the Black List 2011? Email: Rodney.hinds@gvmedia.co.uk