A Magical Day to Remember!

I officially became a Doctor of the Open University (DUniv) over the weekend, and it was an incredible experience. From arriving to have my photos taken, to the procession on stage, introduced by my nominator, Jiten Patel, being handed my written confirmation by the Executive Dean, making my acceptance speech, and then having a lunch in our honour (there were two doctors being confirmed), it was just awesome. Like nothing I had imagined!

I was awarded the honour for:

"Exceptional contribution to education and culture, and protecting and enriching Britain's diversity landscape."

Not sure what I did to earn such an accolade, but having seen the changes in diversity management across Britain because of the British Diversity Awards, and my pioneering book, Managing the Diversity Maze, I guess I did something of note! :o)

I was also the first Black graduate of the University at age 28, which led me to Cambridge University, and on my pioneering diversity inclusion work in industry and public services. I am proud of my various honours, but this one is very special to me for a variety of reasons, so I wanted to share it with my LinkedIn friends, too.

I was pretty humbled by the number of people who came up to congratulate me and show their appreciation of my 'inspiring' acceptance speech. I spoke from the heart, so to have that kind of unexpected reaction was just amazing!

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, but I will never forget that moment, because it was so unreal. :o)

With my nominator (left) Jiten Patel, and the Executive Dean of the Open University, Professor Josie Fraser

With my fellow honoree, Sherry Coutu (front right), and other senior members of the Open University

This pic is with a great friend, Bubbles White, and my super partner, Colin Gorf, who were amazing supports on the day!

Me, in all my glory!! :)