The PRECIOUS Awards were founded in 2007 by Foluke Akinlose MBE to recognise and support women of colour in the business and work environment and create role models for future generations to follow.
Now in its eighth year, the PRECIOUS Awards have been instrumental in informing the business community, and driving change.
According to the IPA 2012 Multicultural Britain report, the BME community accounts for around 12% of the overall population and has a spending power of £300 billion and rising. It raises many questions as to why women from this section of the community are still underrepresented in boardrooms across the country.
More opportunity for career progression exists for women of colour, and more role models are created annually, inspiring the current and next generation of women to aspire to achieve business success, either through their own businesses or in the workplace.
With celebrating the achievements of women who have managed to break the glass ceiling being a key motivation behind the birth of the organisation, the PRECIOUS Awards invites all women of colour to nominate themselves or others for recognition.
Prime Minister, David Cameron said: "I am delighted once again to give my support to the Precious Awards and to congratulate those who use their talent and initiative to start a business. Your awards will help to create great role models for others to follow. This is vital work and you have my full support."
With the ceremony taking place at the Institute of Directors on 22nd October during Black history month, The PRECIOUS Awards illustrates and highlights the many successes of Britain’s women of colour, simultaneously creating role models for the next generation.
Simon Walker, Director General of the Institute of Directors added: “The Institute of Directors is delighted to support this year's Precious Awards. Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of this country's economy and we are very much looking forward to hearing about all the vibrant businesses set up by the Awards entrants. The IoD is firmly convinced that diversity is essential to strong corporate decision making and to strengthening the economy as a whole. We look forward to welcoming the Award winners to the IoD.”
Significant women of colour who have been celebrated or supported the awards in past years include; India Gary Martin, COO of Investment Banking Technology & Operations at JP Morgan, Charlene White, journalist and ITV News presenter and Geeta Patel, co-founder and director of Stargate Capital.
This year’s sponsors and supporters include Credit Suisse, Harvey Nash and the British Library.
If you know of an outstanding woman who should be celebrated for her achievements in business or in her chosen profession, visit www.preciousawards.com and nominate them now.
Nominations close on the 5th September
The awards ceremony take place at the Institute of Directors, PALL MALL, on the 22nd October 2014, tickets are priced at £125, and attendees can enjoy a night of entertainment, drinks reception, dinner and inspiring company.
Tagged in Women's Issues