2026 UK Winners

Khrishawn

 

A.I. Champion

This award recognises those whose work in AI is reshaping industries, solving complex problems, and defining the future of technology.

 

Sponsored by

Salesforce Logo



Khrishawn Powell, Lloyds Banking Group

Nick

 

Ally of the Year

This award honours non-Black professionals who create real opportunities for Black tech professionals, challenge systemic barriers, and drive meaningful change in the industry.

Who Should Enter: Professionals actively championing Black talent through mentorship, sponsorship, advocacy, and creating inclusive pathways in tech.


 



Nick Cornforth, Adobe

Mayowa

 

Developer of the Year

This award celebrates those who turn complex challenges into innovative solutions and work behind-the-scenes to craft exceptional software.

 

Sponsored by

Morgan Stanley Logo

 



Mayowa Fajobi, Marsh

Iyioluwa

 

Diversity Champion

This award recognises those creating inclusive cultures, dismantling barriers, and ensuring the tech industry reflects the world it serves.

 

Sponsored by

Virgin Media Logo

 



Iyioluwa Adesan, Apprentis

Dedun

 

Employee of the Year

This award celebrates employees who go beyond their job description, drive exceptional results, and embody what it means to be indispensable to their team.

 

 



Dedun Oyenuga, Microsoft

Deutsche

 

Employer of the Year

This award recognises organisations creating genuinely inclusive environments where Black tech professionals can thrive, lead, and reach their full potential.

 

 



Deutsche Bank

Elizabeth

 

Entrepreneur of the Year

This award celebrates entrepreneurs who have turned ideas into impact, overcome obstacles, and created something meaningful in the face of uncertainty.

 

 



Elizabeth Uviebinené, Storia World

Shafie

 

Fintech Changemaker Award

This award recognises innovators revolutionising how we save, spend, invest, and build wealth through technology.

 

 



Shafie Ali, Wise

Lewis

 

Gaming Excellence Award

This award celebrates those building innovative and inclusive experiences in gaming, whether through development, design, esports, or advocacy.

 

 



Lewis Appiagyei, Lewis Appiagyei Motorsports

Eneni

 

Innovation Champion

This award recognises those who challenge convention, experiment boldly, and transform possibilities into reality, driving their organisations and the industry forward.

 

 



Eneni Abban, British Council

Hannah

 

Inspirational Woman of the Year

This award honours a woman in tech whose achievements, leadership, and authentic voice inspire the next generation and proves what is possible.

 

 



Hannah Ngakane, Pinterest

Pamela

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

This prestigious award recognises a distinguished professional whose sustained contributions, mentorship, and leadership have created true impact.

 

 



Pamela Maynard OBE, Microsoft

Lisa

 

Outstanding Tech Leader in Financial Services

This award celebrates tech leaders in financial services who are modernising institutions, driving digital innovation, and shaping the future of banking and finance.

 

 



Lisa Smith, Deloitte Digital (former)

Visa

 

Rising Star

This award recognises early career talent under 30 who are already making waves, challenging norms, and demonstrating extraordinary potential.

 

Sponsored by

AVEVA


 



Vera Okojie, Visa Inc (former)

Vanessa

 

Security Person of the Year

This award honours those protecting organisations and individuals from cyber threats through innovative security solutions or sector-leading programmes.

 

 



Vanessa Anderson, Microsoft

Sarah


Social Good Award

This award recognises those using their technical skills to address social challenges, support communities, and create positive impact beyond profit.

 

Sponsored by

OE Logo

 



Sarah Flambard, We Are Here

10mg Health


Tech Start-Up of the Year Award

This award celebrates early stage companies showing exceptional promise, combining rapid growth, market disruption, and the potential to become the tech leaders of tomorrow.

 

 

 



10mg Health

Beryl


Technology Team Leader Award

This award recognises leaders who inspire, develop talent, foster collaboration, and guide technology teams to deliver outstanding results.

 

 

 



Beryl Lindelwa Ncube, Capgemini