The Kia Oval will soon host a celebration of extraordinary achievement, as the nominees for the Scope Awards have been officially announced. This year’s event promises to be a powerful testament to the resilience and innovation of disabled individuals and the organizations championing equality.
Leading the ceremony will be Ade Adepitan MBE, a Paralympian gold medalist and beloved presenter. Ade’s personal journey, marked by triumph on the basketball court and unwavering advocacy, embodies the spirit of the awards. He passionately believes in the crucial need to celebrate disabled people’s accomplishments and ensure their stories are heard by all.
Ade doesn’t just talk about inclusion; he actively encourages others to experience the world from a different perspective, famously suggesting everyone try using a wheelchair for a week. His commitment extends beyond sports, tirelessly advocating for representation in all facets of life, a dedication recognized with his MBE.
The judging panel, comprised of dedicated disability equality advocates, will determine the winners. Returning as Head Judge is Dr. Shani Dhanda, a renowned Disability Inclusion & Accessibility Specialist and Social Entrepreneur. Her extensive experience and numerous accolades underscore her commitment to driving positive change.
This year’s shortlist features 38 nominees across nine categories: Celebrity Role Model, Colleague Network, Community Group, Customer Inclusion, Local Service, Media Moment, Purple Pioneer, Social Media Influencer, and Workplace Champion. Each nominee represents a unique and inspiring story of overcoming obstacles and challenging societal norms.
The awards are made even more impactful through the support of headline sponsor Evri, demonstrating a growing commitment to disability equality within the corporate world. Metro is also proudly partnering with Scope for another year, providing a vital platform to amplify the voices of these remarkable nominees.
The nominees themselves showcase a diverse range of impactful work. Singer-songwriter Cat Burns uses her platform to raise awareness of ADHD and autism, while footballer Hannah Hampton challenges misconceptions about disability in sports. Writer Jack Thorne actively works to improve access for disabled talent in the entertainment industry, and comedian Rosie Jones continues to break barriers with her inclusive comedy.
Beyond individual achievements, organizations are also being recognized for their dedication to inclusion. BT’s Able2 Network, Google’s Disability Alliance, Hull Truck Theatre, and OVO Neurodiversity are just a few examples of groups creating more accessible and equitable environments.
Community groups like Black SEN Mamas and CRIPtic Arts are providing vital support and creative opportunities for disabled individuals. Stopgap Dance Company is leading the way in inclusive dance, and The Parks Trust Access Ambassadors are transforming outdoor spaces to be accessible for all.
The power of media to shape perceptions is also being celebrated. Nominees in the Media Moment category include Chris McCausland’s impactful Christmas speech, the insightful documentary “Chris Packham: Inside Our Minds,” and the groundbreaking representation in the series “Pushers.”
Finally, the Purple Pioneer awards recognize individuals driving change through innovation and advocacy. From Amaira and Eva Deotale, young founders of Being Purple, to Shezad Nawab MBE, a multilingual Deaf entrepreneur, these nominees are inspiring a new generation of disability rights champions.
The Scope Awards are more than just a ceremony; they are a powerful affirmation of the value and contributions of disabled people. They are a call to action, urging us all to build a more inclusive and equitable future where everyone can thrive.
