The 2026 Awards Night
One evening a year, the Tees Valley stops to recognise the people and organisations making the region fairer. This is what to expect, and how to be part of it.
- Date
- Friday 16 October 2026
- Venue
- Digital Life, Teesside University
- Doors
- 6:30 for 7:00 start
- Host
- Nazir Afzal OBE
Digital Life, Teesside University
Everyone in Tees Valley has a stake in this
The awards celebrate contributions and achievements from every part of Tees Valley. Originally the BME Achievement Awards, the platform has grown into something broader, taking in equality, diversity and inclusion in all its forms, while still recognising the particular barriers that underrepresented groups face.
For over sixteen years the awards answered a shortage of programmes and events built for people and organisations committed to equality of opportunity. Becoming the EDI Awards widened that commitment to every characteristic protected by the Equality Act 2010, so that no group and no individual is left outside it.
Nominations are open to every sector: community groups, schools and colleges, the NHS and public services, businesses large and small, and individuals who would never put themselves forward. Anyone can nominate, and you can nominate yourself.
“The EDI Awards represent a critical platform for acknowledging the contributions that our diverse communities make across Tees Valley. As we continue to grow and adapt, this ceremony remains a beacon for promoting a more equitable and inclusive future.”
Shazia Hussain, former BME Awards coordinator, now EDI Awards facilitator
How the night runs
Black tie is welcome but not required, so come as you feel comfortable. Tables seat ten, and we will do our best to seat you with the people you ask for.
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6:30pm
Drinks reception
Doors open. Arrival drink, and a chance to find your table and meet the other guests before the room sits down.
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7:00pm
Welcome and ceremony begins
A prompt start, hosted by Nazir Afzal OBE. The first awards are presented between courses.
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Through the evening
Dinner and the awards
A three-course dinner served alongside the presentations, with every shortlisted nominee recognised from the stage.
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Late
Celebration
Music, photographs and the part of the night where the region’s changemakers actually get to talk to one another.
We would like you in the room
Friday 16 October 2026, Digital Life, Teesside University. Tables of ten and single seats are available now.
