These awards honour individuals who have overcome challenges, broken barriers, and contributed to a more inclusive and equitable university experience. Each year, the EQ+ Awards highlight individuals and groups who have shown resilience, leadership, and dedication in creating opportunities for themselves and others.
The awards are open to all students and recent graduates who have played an active role in promoting inclusivity within the university and beyond.
The Nomination Process
Nominations for the 2025 Equality+ (EQ+) Awards open in January 2025. The submission deadline is midnight on Sunday, 23rd March 2025, and shortlisted nominees will be notified in advance.
All shortlisted candidates will be invited to an awarding afternoon in the Career Studio on 1 May 2025, where winners and commended students will be celebrated for their achievements.
The Judging Panel
The EQ+ Awards Judging Panel consists of representatives from the University of Liverpool as well as external professionals with expertise in equality, diversity, and inclusion. The panel evaluates nominations based on impact, leadership, and commitment to inclusivity.
The 2025 judging panel members will be announced ahead of the nomination deadline.
The Awards
Each year, the Equality+ Awards celebrate individuals who have made meaningful contributions to equality, diversity, and inclusion within the university and wider community. This year’s award categories include:
- upReach Rising Star Award – Recognising a University of Liverpool student in the upReach Rise programme who has shown outstanding dedication in overcoming EDI-related challenges.
- Exceptional Entrepreneur Award – Celebrating a student or graduate who has demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial skills while integrating inclusivity into their ventures.
- Mentor of the Year – Recognising an exceptional mentor who has shown unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Neurodiversity Champion – Honouring a student, graduate, or group promoting awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity within the University of Liverpool.
- Disability Champion – Recognising individuals or groups who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
- The REACH Award – Celebrating students or graduates who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to promoting race equality and cultural heritage at the university.
- LGBTQIA+ Champion – Honouring individuals or groups who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion, support, and advocacy.
- Greatest Contribution to EDI Award 2025 – Recognising a student or graduate who has made the most significant overall contribution to equality, diversity, and inclusion at the university.
Winning an EQ+ Award provides students with valuable recognition, helping to enhance career prospects, leadership development, and networking opportunities.
Why Get Involved?
The Equality+ Awards provide a platform to recognise and celebrate the impact of students and graduates who are actively working towards a more inclusive society. Whether you are a student, faculty member, employer, or industry professional, getting involved in the EQ+ Awards allows you to:
- Support and encourage diversity and inclusion efforts at the University of Liverpool
- Highlight achievements of students and graduates who have demonstrated leadership in EDI initiatives
- Connect with employer partners and industry experts dedicated to promoting workplace inclusion
- Gain recognition for outstanding contributions in creating an equitable environment
By celebrating success stories and acknowledging challenges, the EQ+ Awards continue to inspire future leaders and changemakers in the field of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
If you have any questions about the EQ+ Awards ceremony, please email e.roberts-vick@liverpool.ac.uk.
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