The Bedford College Group’s Head of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging wins community award

Ashley Boora, Group Head of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at The Bedford College Group, has won the Mark West Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Award at the Luton and Bedfordshire Community Awards.

The award recognises Ashley's work to promote fairness and bringing people together, both within the Group, which has campuses across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, and in the wider community.

Now in its 17th year, the Luton and Bedfordshire Community Awards celebrate individuals and organisations making a difference to local communities. The Mark West Award particularly recognises those who challenge discrimination and encourage people from different backgrounds to work together.

Among Ashley's achievements is establishing Dunstable's first Pride event, which has grown into an annual celebration bringing together students, staff, and residents. The event has helped strengthen links between the college and the local community, providing a welcoming space where people can celebrate their identities and show support for one another.

Within The Bedford College Group, Ashley supports staff forums covering areas such as race equity, neurodiversity, faith, and wellbeing, giving colleagues a chance to share their experiences and have a say in the policies and working practices that affect them.

He has also worked with HR colleagues to reduce bias in recruitment, including changes to job advertisements to better reflect the Group's commitment to inclusion. This work has helped attract a more diverse range of applicants, with representation exceeding national averages.

Alongside this, Ashley supports student forums, advises senior leaders, and helped develop the Group's first Freedom of Speech Code of Practice. This provides staff with guidance on handling difficult discussions while respecting different views and ensuring people are treated fairly.

Speaking about receiving the award, Ashley said: “I was delighted to receive the Mark West Award for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of colleagues, students and the communities who are committed to creating environments where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive.

“Equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging are not achieved by individuals working alone; they are built through collaboration, courage and a shared commitment to positive change. I am proud to play a part in that journey and remain passionate about helping to create opportunities for all.”

For more information about The Bedford College Group, visit https://bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/

For more information about the Luton and Bedfordshire Community Awards, visit https://ciluton.co.uk/community-awards/