Westminster shortlisted for British Chamber of Commerce Awards for the People and Work category

The University of Westminster is standing against 23 other nominees for this category, which honours a business that has shown commitment to recruiting, training and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce, leading to an improvement in business performance. This business also demonstrates how diversity and inclusion is prioritised and plays a pivotal role in its culture.

This year’s sponsors are HP LIFE with Intel, UK Export Finance and Octopus Energy for Business. The University of Westminster have been nominated due to their support for the Asian Business Association (ABA) and the Black Business Association (BBA) run by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). The Associations aim to improve the prosperity of ethnic minority-owned businesses and employees in the capital by breaking down barriers, addressing inequalities, enabling connections and empowering businesses and people through access to vital tools. The University has partnered with LCCI on events held by both Associations which provide opportunities for diverse founders to network and support future business growth. Westminster’s students, alumni and colleagues have attended the events to build their networks and showcase their entrepreneurial ambitions.

Linsey Cole, Director of Business Engagement at Westminster, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted as finalists for the People and Work category at the British Chamber of Commerce Awards this year, for our work with the ABA and BBA to support minority-owned businesses in London. This reflects the University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion commitments to supporting our diverse community of students and entrepreneurs to develop the business skills they need to succeed. We look forward to strengthening this further as we continue to partner with LCCI to showcase success and offer practical advice, insight and inspiration, enabling the University to continue to deliver on its strategic commitment to reduce inequalities.”

Senior Sector Account Manager at the LCCI Menelik Shillingford added: “The University of Westminster support both the Asian Business Association and the Black Business Association within LCCI. However, this is not just a show of advocation, they place diversity at the core of what they do. Whether that’s providing students with the opportunity to pitch their products to big brands, or introducing diverse business owners as mentors, Westminster always has diversity and equality at the forefront.”

The national winners will be announced on 14 October, and the Winner of Winners will be announced on 20 November at the London Stock Exchange.

Westminster’s support of the ABA and BBA directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 10: Reduced inequalities and 17: Partnerships for Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

If you are a business interested in working with Westminster to support the diverse community of students and entrepreneurs, please complete the Working with Westminster enquiry form.