Radio station Gateway 97.8 has been shortlisted for the Community Organisation: Multi Strand Award in this year's National Diversity Awards in association with HSBC UK.

It's a huge achievement to reach this stage as from over 90,000 nominees, 125 finalists in 10 categories have been named in recognition of their dedication to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion. 

The station has been nominated for its work in the communities of Basildon and Thurrock.

Winners will be announced on October 4, 2024 at the prestigious 13th National Diversity Awards in the stunning Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.

A highlight in the diversity calendar, the National Diversity Awards unite UK citizens irrespective of race, faith, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability and culture.

Hailed as the 'Golden Globes' of the diversity world, this year's event will be hosted for the second year running by world-renowned broadcaster, author, presenter and journalist Clare Balding, CBE who, in her life and through her work, champions diversity, inclusion and equity.

"I'm honoured and delighted to return as host for these uplifting and inspiring awards. It's so important to recognise individuals, organisations and charities going above and beyond to unite their communities, making them stronger, safer and happier," says Clare Balding, CBE. "The National Diversity Awards celebrate all that's good and powerful in an inclusive society and bring much deserved attention to community heroes whose hard work and achievements might otherwise go unnoticed."

Nominees were put forward for one of these categories:

• Positive Role Model: Age / Disability / Gender / LGBT / Race, Faith or Religion
• Community Organisation: Age / Disability / Gender / LGBT / Race, Faith or Religion / Multi-Strand 
• Lifetime Achiever
• Celebrity of the Year
• Entrepreneur of Excellence
• Diverse Company of the Year

The finalists in the Community Organisation: Multi Strand category are: MyCWA, Migrant Leaders, Future Leaders UK, Ace Programme, Banburyshire Advice Centre, Safety Centre, Mortal Fools and Gateway 978.

"These Awards honour the unsung heroes transforming lives and perceptions through their unwavering commitment," says Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies, and founder of the National Diversity Awards."They also serve to inspire the next generation of diversity advocates to be courageous, take a stand and make a meaningful impact in their communities."