Women & Diversity in Channel Awards: What did our 2024 winners think?

There’s still time to nominate yourself or a colleague for the awards celebrating the diverse talent visible in the UK IT channel

CRN’s Women & Diversity in Channel Awards are back for their eighth year as we champion not only women but also wider diversity within the industry.

Women are still under-represented across the industry.

We feel that shouting about the accomplishments of women in the channel - not because they are women, but because their accomplishments are worth shouting about - can play an important role in tackling under-representation.

To better understand the importance of these awards, CRN spoke with some of our current reigning winners.

What does it mean to be a winner?

"Winning the Outstanding Returner of the Year award was incredibly meaningful to me,” Becky Hartley, senior manager at PwC told CRN.

“It represents my journey of returning to work after maternity leave and the supportive environment at work that made this transition smoother.

“This award reflects that balance and shows what can be achieved when there’s understanding and support from the people you work with.”

Winning Best Diversity Recruitment of the Year in 2024 was a “real honour” for Rachel Khalil, senior partner marketing operations manager at Sage.

“I'm passionate about creating environments that attract, nurture, and empower diverse talent, so this recognition means a great deal—not just to me and the team, but as a reflection of Sage’s commitment to building an inclusive and representative partner ecosystem.”

Two-time winner Sophie Hendry, UK&I commercial category manager - peripherals at HP, told CRN that her two trophies mean “so much for my colleagues to have nominated me and for the panel to have recognised my efforts in my work”.

Sophie won Graduate of the Year - Vendor in 2022 and then went on to win Rising Star of the Year - Vendor at last year’s awards at The Brewery in London.

Why are these awards important for the industry?

“These awards are important because they recognise the unique experiences and achievements of women who are changing perceptions and raising standards in the industry,” says Hartley.

“By celebrating these accomplishments, we show the value of everyone’s contributions and help create workplaces where people feel supported and appreciated.

“Ultimately, this makes our workplaces more dynamic and inclusive and opens the door to more innovation."

Khalil says that “Recognition like this highlights the efforts being taken – often behind the scenes - which inspires others to act and drive meaningful change.

“We’re already seeing growing momentum with more colleagues and partners stepping forward to share their stories and drive progress motivating those considering a new or progressing in their career within our channel.

“These awards are a powerful reminder that long term success in our industry depends on harnessing diverse perspectives and building environments where all voices are heard, valued, and reflect the society we live in.”

Nominations for this year’s awards are currently open and will close at 11.59pm on Monday 28 April.

Click here to visit the website and click here to complete the nomination form - it only takes two minutes to fill in.