The West Midlands Minority Ethnic Achievement Awards 2009 was held at The Clarendon Suites in Birmingham on Friday 13th November to champion Minority Ethnic talent from across Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and the Black Country.
The Network was proud to sponsor the ceremony helping to recognise and reward the invaluable contributions made by BME communities to the economic, social and cultural development of the West Midlands.
The event, organised by Team 11 and the Birmingham Race Action Partnership (BRAP), aimed to provide a platform to showcase, highlight and reward organisations and individuals who have made a significant contribution in their field and bring to the forefront the immense talent evident in the region.
Guests on the night listened to award winning Birmingham comedian Shazia Mirza in between the presentation of 14 awards in categories including Business & Enterprise, Equality & Public Service, Community & Society and Individual Contribution.
Highlights of the evening included the presentation of the Arts and Media award to jazz musician Andy Hamilton MBE who received a standing ovation from the 500 strong audience, and the Lifetime Achievement Award to Benjamin Zephaniah in recognition of his service to over 35 different charities and ability to highlight injustices and inspire people through poetry.
Team 11 and BRAP will disseminate the good practice shown by winners to other organisations and work with award winners following the ceremony, advising them on marketing, PR and communications to ensure that they and their community benefit from their success.
Robin Landman, NBP Chief Executive commented, "The Network for Black Professionals is delighted to support the West Midlands Minority Ethnic Achievement awards 2009, and celebrate the growing contribution of the Diaspora communities of the region to the wealth and skills of Britain."
For further information about the event see Team 11's website.
