Celebrating Diversity and Excellence at the Black Scottish Awards 2024: A DWAD Pro LTD Reflection

As we pulled up to the Radisson Blu Glasgow, excitement filled the air. My husband, Babatunde Adetutu, had been nominated as a finalist in the prestigious Professional Rising Star category, and the evening was poised to celebrate not just his achievements, but the accomplishments of many outstanding professionals across the Scottish Black community and their allies. The Black Professional Scotland Awards, organized by the visionary Enoch Adeyemi, was a night dedicated to excellence, diversity, and the power of hard work values we cherish deeply at DWAD Pro LTD.

A Warm Welcome with Cultural Roots

Upon entering the lobby, we searched for our table number displayed on the screen, a subtle detail that added to the event’s well-organized atmosphere. As we made our way into the grand event hall, we were greeted by the Yoruba eulogy “Ise ni Ogun Ise,” meaning “Hard work is the antidote to poverty.” Hearing these words, I was immediately reminded of my cultural heritage. The opening speech by Enoch Adeyemi beautifully integrated this message, translating it into English for the diverse audience. It set the tone for the evening a celebration of identity, resilience, and global unity.

Our Table: A Microcosm of Diversity and Professionalism

We were seated at a table brimming with energy and diversity, surrounded by an amazing group of individuals from various cultural backgrounds including Scottish, Nigerian, and Mexican and representing a wide array of professions, including entrepreneurs, member of the police force, and executives from different industries. It was a true testament to the event’s focus on diversity, which aligns perfectly with one of DWAD Pro LTD’s core pillars.

This wasn’t just an evening of celebration; it was also a powerful networking opportunity. The joyful atmosphere at our table was palpable. People were eager to connect, share their stories, and celebrate each other’s successes.

Cultural Vibrance Meets Elegance

The evening was filled with cultural activities that brought the room to life. Traditional dances and music bridged cultural divides, uniting everyone in the room through the universal language of art. The food was a delicious three-course continental meal which was another nod to the diverse audience, ensuring that there was something familiar for everyone.

The MCs for the evening, Tosin Ogunlesi and Asabea Owusu, carried out their roles with grace and professionalism. Their ability to seamlessly navigate the evening while representing different cultural backgrounds added an extra layer of inclusiveness to the event.

Celebrating Workmanship Excellence

As the awards ceremony progressed, it became clear that this night wasn’t just about recognizing individual achievements but celebrating the collective excellence of the Black community and its Allies. The categories were designed to highlight those who have excelled in their respective fields, and our table was particularly special, with four nominees seated with us. Out of these four, three emerged as winners, including my Husband, Babatunde, who won in his category of Professional Rising Star. The pride I felt in that moment was indescribable, while it wasn’t just his victory but a triumph for all of us who believe in the power of perseverance and community.

Nigerian Owanbe Vibes in Scotland

No celebration is complete without capturing the memories, and the event offered a taste of Nigeria’s Owanbe vibe with the 360-degree rotating camera that allowed us to capture our most elegant moves and poses. The backdrop, showcasing all the event’s sponsors, provided a great spot for photos, and the branded photo booth gave everyone the chance to take professional pictures with their awards. It was an evening of glamour and joy, with a perfect balance of elegance and fun.

A Night of Connection and Growth

After the awards, the networking session allowed guests to exchange ideas, share views, and learn from one another. It was an invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations that will undoubtedly spark new partnerships and collaborations in the future.

The night ended with live music and dancing, allowing everyone to let loose and celebrate not just the awards but the strength and unity of a community that continues to push boundaries and excel. The band played on, and the dance floor filled with vibrant energy, ensuring that the evening ended on a high note.

DWAD Pro LTD: Diversity, Workmanship, Accomplishments, and Dialogue

The Black Professional Scotland Awards was an event that perfectly embodied DWAD Pro LTD’s values. The celebration of diversity was evident in the range of backgrounds represented. The recognition of workmanship accomplishments was showcased through the award categories, celebrating the professional achievements of the Black community and their allies. And finally, the event fostered dialogue, providing space for people to connect, share, and learn from each other.

At DWAD Pro LTD, we believe in the power of coming together across cultures to create something bigger than ourselves. This event was a shining example of how diversity and excellence can be celebrated on one stage, and we are proud to have been part of such an inspiring evening.

We look forward to continuing to create spaces where diversity thrives, accomplishments are recognized, and meaningful dialogue is fostered both within Scotland and beyond.

This experience has left a lasting impression, not just on me but on all who attended. It was a night that will be remembered, not just for the awards and accolades, but for the community it celebrated. And as DWAD Pro LTD continues to grow, we remain committed to these values Diversity, Workmanship Accomplishments, and Dialogue while looking forward to future events that inspire, connect, and celebrate excellence.

References

Black professionals Scotland; https://blackprofessionals.uk/

The Black Scottish Award; https://theblackscottishawards.com/

Photo credit; https://maxakinvisuals.pixieset.com/tbsa2024/