Next year promises an exciting new addition to the awards calendar honouring the LGBTQ+ community, as Metro announces its first-ever Metro Pride Awards. Scheduled for 26 February 2024, the ceremony coincides with LGBTQ+ History Month and aims to spotlight the myriad ways in which individuals and organisations contribute to LGBTQ+ life and rights.

Richard Hartley-Parkinson, Executive Editor of Metro and chairman of the awards judging panel, stated, "The Metro Pride Awards is a defining moment for us. We are excited to celebrate those who have made significant contributions not just to the LGBTQ+ community but to society as a whole."

The event, held in Metro’s 25th year, seeks to go beyond the typical celebration often linked with June's Pride Month. It will acknowledge the tireless efforts and achievements of people within the LGBTQ+ community across various sectors, including political activism, business leadership, entertainment, and sports.

Nominations are now open and will remain so until 1 November 2023. Metro readers are encouraged to nominate their LGBTQ+ heroes in multiple categories, which extend from well-known public figures to unsung community activists. Categories include:

  • Celebrity Of The Year

  • Broadcaster Of The Year

  • Brand Of The Year

  • Inspirational Ally

  • Music Hero Of The Year

  • Sports Hero Of The Year

  • LGBT+ Game Changer Award

  • LGBT+ Trailblazer

  • LGBT+ Role Model

  • Rising Star Award

  • LGBT+ Business Leader Of The Year

  • Marketing Campaign Of The Year

  • Business Of The Year

  • Best Breakthrough Business

  • Most Inclusive Employer

  • Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility

  • Grassroots or Charity Organisation Of The Year

  • Outstanding Contribution To LGBT+ Life

  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award

  • Lifetime Achievement Award

A shortlist of nominees will be revealed in late November, followed by a selection process carried out by a combination of Metro readers and a panel of judges.

Hartley-Parkinson explained the decision to host the awards in February, noting, "As one of the most diverse and inclusive news brands on Fleet Street, it is a huge honour to be chairman of these awards. We don’t confine ourselves to celebrating LGBTQ+ lives during the month of June – we celebrate it all year round."

He emphasised the importance of the awards in multiple dimensions – recognising significant achievements, inspiring those new to the LGBTQ+ community or grappling with identity issues, and reinforcing Metro's commitment to promoting diverse voices. Additionally, it marks the 20th anniversary of the UK's inaugural LGBT+ History Month.

In addressing the importance of the Metro Pride Awards, Hartley-Parkinson reflected on his personal journey and the broader significance of the awards: "At Metro, we understand that being part of the LGBTQ+ community is integral to who we are, yet it does not solely define us. With these awards, we aim to highlight the myriad facets within the community and celebrate the bravery, justice, equality, and respect that it embodies. Some of those leaders and change-makers deserve to be recognised."

Metro invites everyone to contribute to the nominations, ensuring that the remarkable individuals and organisations that work tirelessly within the LGBTQ+ community receive the recognition they deserve.

For more information or to submit a nomination, readers can contact Metro's news team via email at [email protected].

Source: Noah Wire Services