Newcastle, UK – Last night, The Grand Hotel Gosforth Park in Newcastle was a buzz with over 300 attendees, all gathered to witness the annual ABC Awards. This prestigious event not only celebrated the remarkable achievements of the Asian community in the North East over the past year but also underscored the importance of community, inclusion, and unity.
With 10 awards up for grabs and over 40 nominations, the ABC Awards have captured the attention of millions, making it a significant event on the North East's calendar. They are more than just a recognition ceremony; they epitomise the ethos of #InclusionByDefault. By celebrating the Asian community's accomplishments, they highlight the boundless possibilities that arise when inclusion is woven into the fabric of society.
Tommy Sandhu, with his characteristic wit, seamlessly hosted the evening, ensuring a blend of celebration and inspiration. The event was punctuated by a charity fundraiser game for the PIE Project and a mesmerising Asian classical dance by Medhuja Kayan of Young Asian Voices. Samantha Allen, the NHS Chief Executive for the North East and North Cumbria, delivered a compelling keynote, emphasising equitable health and care services for all.
The heart of the evening was, of course, the awards presentation. The ABC Awards shine a spotlight on the exceptional talent within the Asian Community in the North East. This year's winners, selected from a plethora of nominations, truly represent the region's diverse talent:
Chairman's Award: Lord Lieutenant Lucy Winskell, Colin Bell and Martha Germany
Health and Life Sciences Award: Shkun Chadda and Safwan Akram
Public Sector Award: Juna Sathian
Outstanding Teesside Business Award: Alt-Labs
Third Sector Award: Dragonfly Cancer Trust
Independent Award: AirBae and Payal Singh
Scaling Business Award: Dr Atif Syed
People's Choice Award: My Delhi
Professional Award: Poonam Singh and Sahil Nayyar
Emaan Foundation Award: Dr Mrs S. Nath
Young Asian Voices Award: Mahnur Roushan
A standout moment was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Rt. Hon. Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP to Dr Robin Sengupta. Celebrated as the ‘neurosurgeon of the millennium’ by the Indian Neurological Association, Dr Sengupta's contributions to neurology, particularly in Kolkata, India, are unparalleled.
The success of the ABC Awards is a testament to the unwavering support of its sponsors and partners, all of whom champion the cause of inclusivity and community empowerment. Special thanks to Northumbria University, Teesside University, RBC Brewin Dolphin, NELEP, RTC North, Iron City Motorcycles, SME Centre of Excellence, Yohlar Health, Grand Hotel Gosforth Park, and Spice FM.
If you’re interested in shaping the future of inclusion, please reach out to us at membership@abconnexions.org or follow the link below.