Transparent Presence CIC Shortlisted for National Diversity Award

Cornish support group Transparent Presence CIC recognised among UK’s top community champions

A Cornwall-based organisation that began as a small monthly support group has been named a finalist in this year’s National Diversity Awards, selected from over 85,000 nominations.

Championing Trans and Non-Binary Voices in Cornwall

Transparent Presence CIC has been shortlisted for the Community Organisation: LGBT Award in recognition of its work supporting the transgender and non-binary community across Cornwall. Founded in 2019, the group has grown into a key provider of inclusive support, delivering LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-friendly training, wellbeing sessions, choirs, and live music events throughout the county.

They also run the Ally Business Scheme, which helps identify safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people and their families.

“It feels incredible to be recognised for the work we do and to have reached a point of being shortlisted for this award,” said co-founder and director Elliot Kenton. “From such humble beginnings of one monthly support group 6 years ago, Transparent Presence CIC has become so much more! This organisation exists because I don’t want anyone to feel as confused and alone as me and my family did at the start of my transition journey. Transparent Presence CIC is a beautiful symbol of that love, connection and determination and we are very proud to be celebrating our work at the National Diversity Awards.”

A Growing Spotlight on Equality Work

The National Diversity Awards highlight individuals and organisations making significant contributions to diversity, equality and inclusion across the UK. This year, 125 finalists across 10 categories were selected from a record-breaking 85,000 nominations and votes.

“This year’s awards are more important than ever,” organisers said, pointing to “recent damaging and shortsighted rhetoric” that risks leaving some people feeling excluded from diversity and inclusion work.

“The unsung heroes shortlisted in the National Diversity Awards help us to realise how much goodness and humility there is at the heart of our communities,” said Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies and founder of the awards. “The work these people do and the empathy they show is more important than it has ever been. We are living in a time when funding and support are limited which makes community action an invaluable resource on which so many people rely. Indeed, for some, it really is a lifeline.”

Finalists to be Celebrated in Liverpool Cathedral

The winners will be announced on Thursday 19th September 2025 during a ceremony at the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, hosted by broadcaster and diversity advocate Clare Balding, CBE.

“I’m thrilled and deeply honoured to return as host for the National Diversity Awards,” said Clare. “Recognising the individuals, organisations and charities that go above and beyond to improve their communities is truly vital. These inspiring and uplifting awards shine a spotlight on the incredible strength and positivity of an inclusive society, celebrating community heroes whose dedication and achievements might otherwise go unrecognised.”

Other finalists in the Community Organisation: LGBT category include In Focus Education & Development, LGBT Sparkle, Marching Out Together, Proud 2 b Parents, Sahir, Trans Pride Hastings and The Proud Trust.