UNISON’s third annual Black History Month Awards have taken place in Rotherham, celebrating many different people and organisations in the region who have contributed to the Black movement.
This year’s event was hosted by UNISON Rotherham, following on from successful events in Leeds last year (hosted by UNISON Northern Health and Community), and Sheffield in 2023 (hosted by UNISON Sheffield Teaching Hospitals).
The event was opened by the Mayor of Rotherham, Councillor Rukhsana Ismail, before seven awards were presented, covering a variety of different contributions.
The awards were as follows:
Lifetime Achievement Award
Honouring an individual who has dedicated many years to advancing racial justice, equality and fairness in their workplace, union or community. A recognition of sustained impact and legacy.
Winner: John Campbell, UNISON Sheffield Teaching Hospitals
Community Champion Award
Celebrating someone who has gone above and beyond to support their community, strengthen solidarity and promote inclusion and respect for all.
Winner: Tonico Jose, UNISON Sheffield Community Health
Inspirational Leader Award
Recognising an individual who has shown outstanding leadership in promoting equality, empowering others and creating positive change.
Winner: Abdul Majid, Unity Boxing Centre Rotherham
Workplace Equality Award
Acknowledging the efforts of an individual, team, activists or organisation who have worked to challenge discrimination and promote fairness and inclusion at work.
Winner: Mohammed Nawaz, UNISON Rotherham
Culture and Heritage Award
Celebrating contributions from an individual, team, activist or organisation that preserve, share and uplift Black history, culture and heritage whether through education or community initiatives.
Winner: REMA Rotherham
Social Justice and Solidarity Award
Recognising an individual, team, activist or organisation who have taken a stand against racism and injustice and who work to build unity, fairness and equality in society.
Joint winners: Unity Boxing Centre Rotherham & Barnsley Caring Voices Choir
Allyship Award
For individuals who, while not from a Black background themselves have actively and consistently stood in solidarity with Black communities using their platform to challenge racism and discrimination.
Winner: Jordan Stapleton, UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside
UNISON Rotherham branch secretary Kerri Tierney said: “The previous Black History Month Awards have been fantastic celebrations, and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to bring the event to Rotherham.
“It’s been a great evening celebrating some remarkable people for the fantastic, selfless work they do.
“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s played a part in making the event happen, and a huge congratulations to our award winners!”
