PAST AWARD WINNERS 2023
ALL IN CHAMPION
Companies that already have “All In Champion” status and have made substantial progress in promoting diversity and inclusion within their business over the last two years.
"The MEFA All In Champion award reflects our commitment to creating an environment that is truly inclusive and where everyone can thrive. OMG is proud to be recognised for how we’re holding ourselves to account for delivering against these commitments.”
Kiran Bance, Director of DEIB, Omnicom Media Group UK
UNSUNG HERO
This award recognises those extraordinary individuals from diverse backgrounds, who may have gone under the radar but have made a significant positive impact on those around them.
Gerry Anyanwu
Client Development Director
When I first started out in the industry I felt so overlooked as a Black woman, at times I felt I was losing my sense of self. So to come full circle and be recognised not only by my peers but for the work I do supporting those coming after me. It was joyous, empowering, tearful moment to be recognised as an Unsung MEFA hero. The best thing was my son was there to see it all.
CREATIVE EXCELLENCE
Highlighting the significance of representation, this award celebrates an exceptional campaign that champions diversity and communicates powerful messages of inclusion and authenticity. Authenticity is key to building trust and crucial to representing all business with humanity and dignity.
VCCP Cadbury's BSL
We were honoured to receive recognition at the MEFAs for our Sign With Fingers campaign that we developed in partnership with the National Deaf Children’s Society. The acknowledgment helps us to continue to demonstrate the impact and difference that learning even a small amount of British Sign Language can have in helping deaf BSL users feel more included.
INCLUSIVE MEDIA NATIONAL
This category recognises a National campaign that showcases exceptional audience understanding and expertise in media planning and buying; effectively targeting diversity and inclusion as part of the campaign's objectives.
MG OMD, OMG Unite & Omnigov NHS Blood and Transplant
INCLUSIVE MEDIA REGIONAL
This category recognises a regional campaign that showcases exceptional audience understanding and expertise in media planning and buying; effectively targeting diversity and inclusion as part of the campaign's objectives.
The 7stars
KA Drinks "Be the Noise" Campaign
CHANGE MAKER
This accolade honours individuals who initiate and implement game-changing initiatives within the media and advertising sector, making a significant impact in promoting diversity and inclusion across the industry.
Ally Owen
Founder Brixton Finishing School
I was awestruck to be named the inaugural MEFA Change-Maker. It's hard to find the words to describe how powerful it was to be honoured by the community and judges. A truly special moment, the energy of which continues to propel me forward. I can't wait to celebrate this year's award winners - they are vital agents of positive action and hope in an industry beset by the defunding of equity programmes and society at risk of the further rise of the far right.
HAMMER
This prestigious award recognise senior leaders from diverse backgrounds who have shattered the glass ceiling, achieving remarkable success while actively advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout their careers.
Davina Barker
Sales Director Digital Cinema Media
“I’m extremely honoured to have been named the winner of the inaugural Hammer Award, alongside a list of inspirational peers. I am passionate about addressing diversity, equity and inclusion for all, and these Awards shine a light on people and work that are constantly pushing boundaries to change our industry for the better.”
BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION
Emma Flaxman
"Channel 4’s purpose has always been to broadcast unheard voices in our programming. Initiatives such as Diversity in Advertising have been helping us to shift the dial on representation in advertising too and we have been running this award now for the last 8years. To win the Business Transformation Award in 2023 helped us underpin why this initiative is still so important and pushed us to go even further with this year’s award. Thank you to MEFA for the recognition and to all the judges who help get us there!"
2023 AWARDS GALLERY
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