Milton Keynes played host to an inspiring evening of celebration as the Milton Keynes, Bucks, Beds & Northants Black Excellence Awards brought together leaders, professionals, creatives and community champions.
The event honoured outstanding individuals and organisations whose work continue to uplift communities and create meaningful impact.
This year’s fourth annual awards show - held at Bletchley's Wilton Hall - featured 12 nomination categories.
Nominees were drawn primarily from Milton Keynes, with additional representation from Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire.
Organisational awards were presented to The Parks Trust, MK:Act, and Thames Valley Police, honouring their commitment to equity and bridge-building with the Black community.
Dignitaries included the High commissioner of The Gambia to the UK and the Permanent Secretary, Office of The Gambia's first Lady.
The Deputy High Commissioner of Ghana to the UK, the Mayor of Milton Keynes, Cllr James Lancaster, Deputy Mayor of Milton Keynes, Cllr Paul Trendall, Cricket legend, Roland Butcher and Former Deputy Lieutenant, Francesca Skelton were also in attendance, and joined event judges, Cllr Sam crooks, Elaine Dicerbo, Abena Akuffo-Kelly, Princess Olu Toyin and Tolu Fagbola.
“I organise the Awards to provide a platform for Black excellence to be showcased and to shine,” said Nana Ama Ofori-Atta, ’At a time when negative narratives dominate, it is vital to hold up a different mirror - one that says, ‘you matter’, ‘you are doing an excellent job’, and ‘we see you.'”
