Submitted by Kelly on 8 Oct 2025 - 2:11pm
The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Awards once again brought together inspiring individuals and organisations from across the Tees Valley to celebrate the achievements that make our region such a vibrant and inclusive place to live and work.
Originally known as the BME Achievement Awards, the event, held on Friday 3 October, has evolved to embrace a broader vision of equality, diversity and inclusion, continuing to shine a light on both the challenges and successes of underrepresented groups across our region.
Celebrating Social Impact
This year, MVDA proudly sponsored the Social Impact Business of the Year category, recognising organisations making a lasting difference through social innovation, inclusivity and community action.
John Atkinson, MVDA’s Community Development Officer, represented MVDA at the ceremony, presenting the award and connecting with colleagues and partners across the sector. In true community spirit, MVDA also invited local organisations to join us for the evening, ensuring that collaboration and inclusion were at the heart of our presence.
“It was a brilliant evening, full of energy, positivity and connection,” said John. “We came away feeling that we’d contributed something of value, and we’re already thinking about how to build on those relationships.”
Hearing from Our Guests
Our guests shared their reflections on what made the evening so special.
Sammy, founder of The Leadership Conference Forum, attended the EDI Awards for the first time and said:
“It was, without doubt, the best event I have attended this year. Everything was so well organised, from the warm welcome to the inspiring speeches and excellent presentations. What stood out most was the atmosphere of meaningful networking, it was a genuinely inclusive space.”
We were also joined by Locardia from Women Today NE, who reflected on her experience attending the awards with MVDA:
“The event was inspiring and exceptionally well organised. We were particularly impressed by the genuine stories shared about each finalist—highlighting the strong sense of community and momentum surrounding equity, diversity and inclusion.”
“MVDA’s support was evident, thoughtful and impactful. Their longstanding commitment to connecting organisations, sharing opportunities and promoting inclusion was clearly demonstrated at the event. John is an outstanding representative of the organisation—friendly, proactive and supportive.”
“Attending with MVDA reinforced the importance of their role in our local sector; connecting people, building capacity and transforming shared values into tangible action.”
Nominations
The Social Impact Business of the Year Award celebrated three outstanding organisations making a positive difference in their communities:
Difference North East – championing inclusivity and equity across the North East.
Impact on Teesside – strengthening social and environmental initiatives region-wide.
The Daisy Chain Project – providing transformative support for autistic individuals and their families.
The winner for the award was... The Daisy Chain Project, this year’s well-deserved winner, congratulations to everyone at Daisy Chain!
A Shared Commitment to Inclusion
Events like the EDI Awards remind us what’s possible when cross sector organisations come together with shared values of inclusion, respect and community.
MVDA is proud to support, sponsor and celebrate those making a real difference in our communities; building connections, amplifying impact and championing a fairer, more inclusive Tees Valley.
