Equality charity Diversity UK has recognised three outstanding leaders for their contributions to diversity, inclusion and social impact.
Pinky Lilani CBE DL and Farzana Baduel were among those presented with the prestigious Diversity Champion Award at the organisation’s flagship event, The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Art of Networking, held in London on 11 March 2026. Alongside them, Ramesh Vala CBE was also honoured for his long-standing commitment to mentoring and community leadership.
The awards celebrate individuals whose leadership has made a meaningful and sustained contribution to advancing equality and inclusion, typically spanning more than 15 to 20 years of impact.
Pinky Lilani CBE DL was recognised for her pioneering work in championing women’s leadership and creating global platforms that support future generations. Over the past 25 years, she has founded and nurtured initiatives such as the Asian Women of Achievement Awards and the Women of the Future Programme, both instrumental in empowering thousands of women to progress in their careers and leadership journeys.
Accepting her award, she said: “Creating opportunities for others has always been at the heart of my work. When we invest in people and build supportive communities, we create the conditions for future leaders to thrive.”
Farzana Baduel, President of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and Founder and CEO of Curzon PR, was honoured for her influence in shaping inclusive leadership within the communications industry. Throughout her career, she has championed diversity in
L-R: Alice Huang, Lopa Patel MBE, Farzana Baduel, Ramesh Vala CBE, Sareeta Vala, Sherad Dewedi.
media and reputation management, using her platform to open doors for underrepresented talent.
She said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. Diversity strengthens organisations and communities alike, and it is vital that we continue to open doors and create opportunities for talented people from every background.”
Ramesh Vala CBE was recognised for his extensive work in mentoring, philanthropy and advocacy. As Deputy Chair of Diversity UK since 2019, he has played a key role in strengthening partnerships and supporting young professionals and students to succeed.
He said: “This recognition means a great deal to me. I have always believed that success is most meaningful when it is shared, and mentoring the next generation is something I care deeply about.”
Speaking at the event, Diversity UK Trustee Lopa Patel MBE praised the recipients for their enduring commitment to inclusion.
“These three remarkable individuals embody the values that Diversity UK seeks to champion. Each of them has used their influence, networks and experience to open doors for others and to strengthen the culture of inclusion across business and society,” she said.
The awards formed part of Diversity UK’s Changemakers 2026 series, which brings together entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders to explore the power of networks, leadership and inclusive growth.
The series aims to inspire the next generation of founders, social entrepreneurs and changemakers, encouraging more diverse voices to take centre stage in shaping the future of business and society.
