Women & Diversity in Channel Awards: What did our 2025 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

Taking place on 8th October at The Brewery in London, CRN’s Women & Diversity in Channel Awards champion not only women but also wider diversity within the industry.

Even as the UK tech industry has made positive strides, the challenge of increasing diversity remains.

And while we certainly need more women in technical, managerial and all roles across the sector, this year we’re using a broader definition of diversity – one that focuses on gender, but also class, ethnicity, level of education, LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity representation.

As the definition of diversity has gradually shifted to an intersectional lens, and even as, in some cases, diversity initiatives have tumbled down the list of boardroom priorities, CRN remains steadfast in celebrating hard work and great ideas, regardless of background.

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 two awards at the CRN Women and Diversity Awards, Mental Health Champion of the Year and Unsung Hero – Reseller/Solution Provider, was a moment I will never forget” Nafeesah Ikram of Trustmarque told CRN.

“After 28 years in the technology channel, it was deeply moving to feel that my voice, my values, and the impact of my work truly mattered.”

“It reflects the journey of transforming mental wellbeing from a tick-box exercise into a strategic priority, advocating for inclusion, and helping to pave the way for more women to feel confident, visible, and heard within our industry.

“It has impacted me profoundly, not only as a leader, but as a role model to my daughter, showing her that resilience, integrity, and compassion have a place in tech.”

Meanwhile, Kira Squire, who took home the trophy for the Unsung Hero (Vendor/Distributor) Award commented that her win “recognised the heart led, behind the scenes work that often goes unseen”.

“This acknowledgment reminded me that authenticity, quiet leadership, and creating space for others are powerful forces for change.

“My biggest takeaway? Keep showing up as your full and true self. Your impact matters. You are valued. You are powerful. You are not alone.”

Why are these awards important for the industry?

“The CRN Women and Diversity Awards do such an important job highlighting the talent, innovation, and leadership shaping our industry, and making sure diverse voices are properly recognised and celebrated” Kelly Waring of Lima told CRN.

“These awards are crucial to the industry as they highlight diverse role models who drive positive change, celebrate real progress, and help build a stronger, more inclusive future” added Bethan Jones of Computacenter, who took home the Rising Star (Reseller/Solution Provider) award.

“I believe these awards are so important within the IT industry because they not only recognise and reward talent but also encourage companies to raise the bar and think differently about representation and opportunity” said Sophie Cutler of HPE, winner of Graduate/Apprentice of the Year (Vendor/Distributor).

“At their core, they’re not just about recognition — they’re about inspiring change and showing that a more diverse IT industry is a stronger more innovative one."

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