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This is our second BPLS Inspire Awards, building on the success of our inaugural programme and continuing our commitment to celebrating those driving positive change in life sciences.
Award winners will be announced at the BPLS Annual Summit on Thursday, 26th March 2026 at A&O Shearman, One Bishops Square, London.
Recognising organisations, teams, or groups that have delivered high-impact initiatives advancing Ethnic Diversity and/or Equity and Inclusion across life sciences.
Honouring early-career professionals demonstrating exceptional promise, leadership potential, and a commitment to innovation and inclusion.
Recognising mid- to senior-level professionals who have shown transformative leadership in championing equity, mentoring underrepresented talent, and driving lasting impact.
Celebrating individuals who have gone above and beyond to advocate for and amplify Black and ethnically diverse professionals within the life sciences community.

Unseen Unheard: The untold breast cancer stories of Black Women in the UK
Companies:
Gilead Sciences Ltd in association with Black Women Rising

Break the Taboo: HIV & Anal Health
Companies:
Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance BHA for Equality
Intent Health

Deborah Ojutalayo
Senior Research Associate
AviadoBio

Bowo Oluniyi
Medical Lead, UKINOR
Grunenthal

Dr Aziza Sesay
GP, Educator, Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer and medical broadcaster
Talks With Dr Sesay

Nyambe “Yam” Sumbwanyambe
Founder
The Black Sherpa

Julian Cole
Country Medical Director
Gilead Sciences Ltd

Dr. Rebecca Jackson
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Lead (UK)
Pfizer Ltd

Owner, Ignition Consulting
"Supporting the BPLS team with their inaugural awards in 2024 was a real highlight in my year, recognising excellence and advancing equity, representation and leadership among Black and ethnically diverse professionals in life sciences. It is a privilege to return this year to help expand the programme and lead a distinguished panel of judges."

Founder & CEO, Coldr
“I’m honoured to serve as a judge for the BPLS Inspire Awards. These awards shine a light on the changemakers who are pushing the life sciences sector forward, championing inclusion, and inspiring progress. It’s a privilege to help recognise the people who are shaping the future of our industry.”

Principle, OMGEN
"I’m proud to serve as a judge for the BPLS Inspire Awards. Recognising and championing Black excellence in our industry matters, it strengthens our sector and ensures the next generation of innovators can see themselves represented. The depth of talent within this community is extraordinary, and it’s a privilege to help highlight those making a defining impact."

Chief Purpose Officer
The Game Changer Collective
"Coined an ‘inclusion hooligan’, I firmly believe that decisions in our world (and especially our Life Sciences sector) are optimised when we have solid representation. Having joined the industry in 1997 I’ve seen so much change, but not enough in terms of ethnic diversity, inclusion a
Chief Purpose Officer
The Game Changer Collective
"Coined an ‘inclusion hooligan’, I firmly believe that decisions in our world (and especially our Life Sciences sector) are optimised when we have solid representation. Having joined the industry in 1997 I’ve seen so much change, but not enough in terms of ethnic diversity, inclusion and belonging. Through the judging process and awards I look forward to hearing success stories and ensuring those that are moving the dial are recognised and show cased."

Early Talent Lead, GSK
"Inclusion drives innovation, and by inspiring those starting out to explore life science careers we strengthen the future of our industry and open doors for those who will shape tomorrow’s breakthroughs."

Director of Communities & Founder of Race in STEM
The IN Group
"Being a judge for the BPLS means a lot to me. There are many deserving professionals who are aspiring and inspirational. Identifying those who are going to be rewarded will be a challenge; however to be a part of a process to acknowledge the impact everyone is making provid
Director of Communities & Founder of Race in STEM
The IN Group
"Being a judge for the BPLS means a lot to me. There are many deserving professionals who are aspiring and inspirational. Identifying those who are going to be rewarded will be a challenge; however to be a part of a process to acknowledge the impact everyone is making provides a feeling of warmth and encouragement that change is taking place, and there is more to come. As a judge doesn’t mean I’m better; it means I can support, encourage, recognise and support development in many areas across personal and professional lives."

Healthcare Communications Consultant, Gleen Consulting
"Being invited to judge the BPLS Inspire Awards is a real honour, and I’m excited to bring my passion for advancing diversity in healthcare to this fantastic initiative. Our life sciences sector thrives when diverse perspectives shape innovation and excellence, and I’m delighted to help recognise those who are leading the way."

Global Director, Inclusion & Impact, Inizio
“It’s a privilege to judge and see the work that’s genuinely advancing our industry and creating space for more voices.”

President, Global Life Sciences Advisory and Consulting
Crest Meridian Limited
“As a judge for the BPLS Inspire Awards 2026, I am honoured to recognise organisations and teams that demonstrate measurable progress in ethnic diversity and inclusion, reflecting my lifelong commitment to driving equitable innovation and transformative impact across global health and technology.”

Associate Director Medical Affairs Oncology
"Serving as a judge for the BPLS INSPIRE Awards is an brilliant opportunity to spotlight rising stars, celebrate visionary leaders from diverse backgrounds highlighting the impact they contribute to the industry"
Submissions Open: 5 December 2025
Submissions Close: 30 January 2026 (18:00)
Nominees Informed: 4 February 2026
Shortlist (2 nominees) Announced:
17 February 2026
Winners & Highly Commended Announced Live at the BPLS Annual Summit: 26 March 2026
Location: A&O Shearman, One Bishops Square, London, E1 6AD
