Diversity Ally, a diversity and inclusion organisation for the events, MICE and hospitality, has announced three industry figures for its first Diversity in Events Awards (DEAs).

Fay Sharpe OBE, Ryan Curtis-Johnson and Amrita Devaiah have been announced as judges for the awards on 26th April 2022 at Cutty Sark in Greenwich, UK. All three judges have worked to drive diversity through their roles within the industry, Diversity Ally reports.

According to a press release, Diversity Ally founders Ashanti Bentil-Dhue and Gabrielle Austen-Browne launched the awards as part of their commitment and mission to recognise, promote and celebrate those “doing great work for equality, diversity and inclusion through events“.

Fay Sharpe is the founder of mentorship programme Fast Forward 15, and this year was awarded an OBE for her work in equality, mentoring and charity. Ryan Curtis-Johnson has worked in the events industry for more than 12 years and his current role is as the Director of Communications at the Valuable 500, helping to drive the message of inclusivity for those with disabilities within the workplace. Amrita Devaiah is currently the Head of External Affairs and Engagement at the Cabinet Office, with responsibility for events and all aspects of ministerial engagement for the department.

Award categories will include “Diverse Events Team of the Year“, “Best D&I Initiative“ and “Diversity Champion of the Year“.