NATIONAL DIVERSITY AWARDS

Imran Savas, from Chester, has been shortlisted for the Positive Role Model Award for Race, Faith & Religion at the National Diversity Awards 2020.

A record breaking 64,000 people nominated this year alone and the results are finally in for the National Diversity Awards (NDA), with an astonishing 126 nominees being recognised for their various achievements nationwide.

Community organisations and role models from across the UK will head to the breath-taking Liverpool Anglican Cathedral on 26th February to witness the countries 2020 winners being crowned the best of British diversity.

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

Imran, shortlisted for the Positive Role Model Award for Race, Faith & Religion, is a British entrepreneur, founder, and CEO of TAPE. 

In 2019, he created TAPE specialising in accounting, marketing, and IT services across United Kingdom. Their mission is to “bring inspiring and innovative services to help create opportunities and make a positive impact on lives.” The idea stems from the stresses and strains on business owners (doing twenty jobs in one) and not always being able to employ new talent to focus on particular jobs – which in turn, stretches founders, often in directions that are not compatible with their talents and skillsets.

Imran expresses that “TAPE is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and strives to treat clients and employees equally. This drives innovation and allows us to attract and retain the best talent. If we can help prevent discrimination and inspire communities then we know we are on the right track. The past decade has seen so much progression in diversity and equality, but the recent political storms have seen huge setbacks in our society. We are politically aware and want to shine a spotlight on the inspiring people that make up Britain today and showcase what TAPE represents as a brand.” 

TAPE’s social media platforms have reached over 100k and Imran has used them to educate and inspire followers. He will consistently be asked questions on racism, politics, religion, and mental health to name a few. He has allowed his platform to always be open for anyone to ask or share their questions or problems. The aim is aspire to educate as many people as he can and then inspire those people to go on and teach others around them, in the view that this momentum will truly change the world we are in for the better.

Imran is quickly developing into a leader of a generation within the last 17 months of being a business owner and his kindness, support and education to others is second to none. Imran has been a guest on BBC radio to discuss his innovate business and projects with Ngunan Adamu, being referred to as "the Brown Malcolm X" by one of the Producers, saying that she could "feel something building". He has also conducted a TED Talk, a key achievement, to be able to share his story and aspirations for the changes we can all make. He spoke of his passion and beliefs in the uniqueness of society, the diversity that surrounds us and how the next generation is set to grow and enhance the world with their vision and drive. https://tapeuk.com/imran-savas-ted-talks

Nielsen, Direct Line Group & The Open University have recently been announced as sponsors of the pioneering awards that have paid tribute to over 800 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 to our unsung heroes.

Rachel Corp, Acting Editor, ITV News said: “We are pleased that ITV News will once again be supporting the National Diversity Awards. ITV News remains committed to telling the stories of those, who through their work and dedication to helping others have made a difference, enhancing equality, diversity and inclusion in our society. We look forward to introducing the 2020 nominees to our viewers across the regions and nation.”

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, Presenters Alex Brooker & Ade Adepitan MBE and Emmerdale star Ash Palmisciano were on this year’s judging panel, dedicating their time to help choose the highly anticipated shortlist.

Actress and comedian Sally Phillips will take centre stage on 26th February as the official host of this year’s ceremony. Sally said, “This year has presented historic challenges for everyone but with them we have also seen extraordinary and heroic achievements of people fighting to keep some of our most vulnerable communities supported.  We need a spotlight on our communities, need, human rights and care for those on the outside like never before. We need to meet, exchange ideas and resources and pool skills more urgently than ever. I am ever-grateful for the NDA network and couldn’t be prouder to be returning to their tremendous awards as host for a second time. See you there?”

Previous winners include actor Warwick Davis, men’s mental health charity Andys Man Club and reformed breast cancer survivor Codilia Gapare.

Paul Sesay, Founder and CEO of the National Diversity Awards added, “During difficult and challenging times, it is now more important than ever to recognise our countries true role models. The nation has embraced the diversity of our country and exceeded every other year by submitting a record breaking 64,000 nominations and votes. Let me reiterate that creating this shortlist was no easy task. The profound impact made by all our nominees is astonishing, and I feel personally encouraged to know that so many lives are being changed for the better due to the many causes being championed by all of you.

After weeks of deliberating and thousands of heartfelt testimonials later, I am delighted to finally present to you the best of British Diversity. Congratulations to all of our shortlisted nominees, it is an honour to recognise your fearlessness, resilience and humanitarian efforts with the rest of the world. Let’s continue the fight for justice, unity and equality for all”.

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