University of Leeds Conferences and Events wins prestigious diversity, equity, and inclusion award

University of Leeds Conferences and Events has been recognised for its outstanding contribution to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion.

The team received the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Award at the miaList 2023 awards, organised by the Meetings Industry Association.

The Conferences and Events team has gone beyond its role as a host venue by championing improved access initiatives across the sector.

This includes a long-standing partnership with Communication Matters, an organisation that supports people who find it hard to communicate because they have little or no speech. The 2023 conference was the 12th year that the event has been held at the University of Leeds.

The team has been supported Conference Leeds, the city’s destination bureau.

Sam Glenister-Batey – Head of Conferences and Events at the University of Leeds said: “I am so proud that the team’s efforts in promoting accessibility and inclusion at conferences and events have been recognised.

“We consider ourselves passionate rather than experts in this area and thus remain dedicated to further developing our DEI practices to help make Leeds one of the most accessible, diverse and inclusive event locations.”

The positive outcomes of these initiatives include increased awareness of DEI practices within the industry. The University’s Head of Conferences and Events presented at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) UK and Ireland conference, leading to expanded collaboration. Introduction to CHS Leeds organisers resulted in Communication Matters receiving a complementary exhibition stand, furthering their reach.

In addition, Jacob Seddon, Conferences and Events Assistant, was recognised in the Star of the Future category. A category that recognises new talent in the business and meeting sector.

Looking ahead, the University remains committed to DEI practices. They align with the university’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy and actively engage in user focus groups to ensure continued accessibility and inclusivity.

University of Leeds Conferences and Events sets a high standard for the industry, inspiring positive change through proactive training, collaboration, tailored accommodations, and outreach efforts.

 

About University of Leeds Conferences and Events:

Located in the heart of Leeds’ vibrant city centre, the University of Leeds Conferences and Events is a diverse and expansive venue for conferences, meetings, and events. With award-winning event spaces accommodating 4 to 2000 guests, it offers a comprehensive event planning solution, Green Tourism Gold-standard accommodation, in-house catering, and event management services, all conveniently located on the 100-acre campus.

The dedicated team of passionate events professionals at University of Leeds Conferences and Events boasts decades of industry experience, ensuring successful, creative, and collaborative solutions tailored to clients’ needs.

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