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EDIFYING: Founder of the National Diversity Awards, Paul Sesay

ORGANISERS FOR The National Diversity Awards are now accepting nominations from the public, in order to highlight and champion the work of organisations around the country who are doing their bit to create a genuinely diverse workforce.

The awards are now in their sixth year and are expecting the usual influx of circa 20,000 annual nominations as well as reaching out to those who want to put forward companies that have never been considered before. The closing date for nominations is 9 June 2017.

The grand Liverpool Anglican Cathedral will play host to the 2017 ceremony, which will happen on 8 September 2017.

The passionate driving force behind the awards is Paul Sesay, who is on a mission to unify communities. Sesay comments:

"As we enter our sixth year, I know there are still so many game changers who remain unnoticed and unheard.

"We aim to provide a platform for those who have the passion and determination to spread the positive message of inclusivity.

"I look forward to learning about this year’s nominees and witnessing their spectacular journeys."

SUPPORT: Graham Norton is looking forward to the National Diversity Awards

In the wake of recent racially-charged Brexit campaigns and US Presidential attacks on diversity, Moira Smyth, Winner of the positive LGBT Role Model Award 2016 warns:

"Did we know that we were standing on the threshold of a very different and much darker new world?"

Awards judge Funke Abimbola, who is a lawyer and diversity leader, as well as previous recipient of the Positive Role Model for Gender award adds:

"These awards are vital as they celebrate and encourage those unsung diversity heroes working tirelessly to level the playing field within our communities.

“Others can then learn from and be inspired by their example. Never has this been more important than now in our post-truth and post-Brexit era.”

The iconic National Diversity Awards has retained major headline sponsor Microsoft for this year's ceremony. The prestigious black tie event has also attracted a growing list of endorsements from celebrities who are actively supporting the diversity agenda, including Sir Lenny Henry, Stephen Fry, Katie Piper and Graham Norton, who says:

'Promoting and celebrating diversity is close to my heart, which is why I am thrilled to support The National Diversity Awards!

"I want to wish all of this year’s nominees the best of luck for the ceremony, you all deserve to win!’’

To nominate, click here before 9 June 2017.