Zak Addae-Kodua, a social entrepreneur and former ex-offender, and sports media leader Charlene Gravesande, were honoured at the Black Talent Awards 2024, held at the ICC in Birmingham on 4th October. The annual awards celebrate individuals who are driving change and promoting diversity in their industries.
Zak Addae-Kodua, who previously served three prison sentences for drug and robbery-related offences, was recognised with the Charitable, Voluntary and Social Change award. Now an award-winning broadcaster, Addae-Kodua hosts XConversation, a podcast focused on the rehabilitation of ex-offenders and the diversification of the prison workforce. Additionally, he co-presents The Sit Down, a podcast where ex-offenders and their families discuss their experiences both inside and outside the criminal justice system.
Charlene Gravesande, a former Sky Sports producer who now runs her own sports media business, won the Media, Marketing and Creative award. She has been recognised for her tireless efforts in advocating for Black talent within the sports broadcasting industry. Gravesande, a BAFTA-winning producer for the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, was previously awarded Game Changer in Sport Businesswoman of the Year at the Great British Businesswoman Awards. She is also known for producing a 9-minute and 29-second film after George Floyd’s death, highlighting the role of the sporting world in the Black Lives Matter movement.
Now in its third year, the Black Talent Awards shines a spotlight on inspiring role models who are challenging barriers and promoting equality in the workplace. Sponsored by companies such as Merlin Entertainments, Serco, Haleon, Lloyds Banking Group, Coca-Cola, and EDF Renewables UK & Ireland, the event was founded in 2022.
Denise Myers, founder of the Black Talent Awards and recruitment entrepreneur, said:
“Storytelling is a potent force for change. The Black Talent Awards is less about the award and event itself and more about providing a platform upon which remarkable people can tell their stories. Since establishing the Awards, I’ve been fortunate enough to meet with so many inspiring people who succeeded despite the setbacks. Theirs is a story of grit, determination and successes that follow second chances. Storytelling is not a panacea for the racial equality problem but it can move mountains in terms of the wider perceptions of Black achievement, and that is what we hope to do.”
Tim Campbell MBE, the first winner of The Apprentice and aide to Lord Alan Sugar, served as a brand ambassador this year. He worked alongside a judging panel that included leaders from NatWest, the Institute of Directors, and the BBC. The event also welcomed West Midlands Mayor, Richard Parker.
Additional winners at the Black Talent Awards 2024 included:
- Bamidele Farinre, a biomedical scientist, received the Science, Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Construction award. Despite early doubts about her future in science, Farinre has become a multi-award-winning STEM ambassador and an active mentor to the next generation of scientists.
- Trevor Gordon, awarded the Trailblazer prize for his impact in education, has dedicated his career to advancing equality. The son of Windrush-generation parents, Gordon has led initiatives to improve ethnic minority representation at Ravensbourne University and a Saudi Arabian college.
Merlin Entertainments’ Global Trade Strategy Director, Dominique Sidley, reflected on their partnership with the Black Talent Awards:
“At Merlin, people are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered, with equal opportunities to succeed. We’re proud to sponsor the Evenfields Black Talent Awards for the third year running. This partnership offers us invaluable insights into the future of our workforce, helping us build pathways for aspiring talent, particularly from Black communities, to thrive in the branded entertainment industry. We’re excited to celebrate these outstanding individuals on a night of well-deserved recognition.”
Tim Campbell MBE shared his thoughts on the awards:
“The pioneering work of Denise and her amazing team at the Black Talent Awards continues to unveil inspirational stories of talent positively impacting communities, debunking myths and redefining what success can look like. As a proud ambassador for this year’s awards, it is truly heart-warming to know the next generation won’t have to look far to find even more African Caribbean diasporic stories of success as a result of the awards.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of West Midlands, also commented:
“Congratulations to all the winners – their inspiring stories highlight the incredible talent and energy in our community. They stand as role models, showing how challenges can be overcome with determination and self-belief. It’s essential that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. As Mayor, I am deeply committed to investing in our communities to ensure everyone can thrive and succeed in the future.”
For more details on the winners, visit www.blacktalentawards.co.uk.
