Congratulations to the shortlisted candidates for the Neurodiverse Business Awards!

The finalists for the inaugural Neurodiverse Business Awards have been announced! This national programme is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the incredible talent within the neurodivergent community and the organizations that are committed to promoting neuroinclusive cultures across the UK workforce.

It is estimated that 15-20% of the population is neurodivergent, yet these individuals remain underrepresented in employment. Alarmingly, only 56% of the working-age neurodivergent population is in full-time work, with that number plummeting to 31% for autistic individuals. The lack of visible role models and the necessity for many to mask their neurodivergence in the workplace only serve to reinforce outdated stereotypes, limiting the understanding of the immense value neurodivergent individuals bring to any organization.

The Neurodiverse Business Awards aim to challenge these barriers by highlighting exceptional individuals and innovative employers. By showcasing their contributions, the Awards seek to shift perceptions and demonstrate that neuroinclusion is vital for driving innovation, productivity, and overall business performance.

We want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our partners who have been shortlisted, whose remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to many:

• Emily Shaw – Capgemini – Advocate of the Year
• Ramit Jain – Capgemini Invent – Ally of the Year
• Naomei Cathcart – Capgemini – Business Leader of the Year
• Georgia Oliver – Capgemini – Inspiration of the Year
• Leigh Renshaw – AstraZeneca – Outstanding Achiever of the Year
• Nicole Hawley – Capgemini – Rising Star of the Year
• Olivia Watkins – Capgemini – Rising Star of the Year
• Chris Sadler – Currys – Role Model of the Year
• Pauline Ainsworth – AstraZeneca – Trailblazer of the Year
• Roger Farrow – Capgemini – Trailblazer of the Year
• Rand Ammary-Azar – Capgemini – Young Leader of the Year

• Beazley – Employer of the Year
• AstraZeneca – Employer of the Year
• NeuroAbility UK, Capgemini – Neurodiversity Network of the Year
• Neurodiversity Network, Virgin Media O2 – Neurodiversity Network of the Year

These individuals exemplify the commitment to resilience and innovation that the Neurodiverse Business Awards aim to celebrate. Congratulations to all the shortlisted individuals and their organizations for their dedication to neuroinclusivity!

By recognizing these achievements, we can continue to break down barriers and unlock the vast potential within the neurodivergent community.

To view the full list of finalists and learn more about the Neurodiverse Business Awards, click here. Congratulations once again to all organizations involved!