New awards ceremony announced to highlight contribution of Scotland's black community

A new awards ceremony aiming to celebrate the Scottish black community is coming to Edinburgh this autumn.

The Black Scottish Awards, founded by Enoch Adeyemi, will take place at the capital’s Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel on October 28.

The new event will recognise individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions to Scotland in various fields.

Areas will include, but will not be limited too, business, arts, education, sports and community service.

The awards will be accepting nominations from the public from April 24 until July 31, and the judging panel will select winners in each category after the summer months.

Judges include Dr Debora Kayembe, rector of the University of Edinburgh, and Kieron Achara, executive director of the British Basketball Federation.

Award categories include outstanding contribution to the black community, Professor Sir Geoff Palmer outstanding student of the year, sportsperson of the year, business of excellence, and professional rising star.

The evening will feature entertainment amid a celebration of African culture, and will include performances by local artists from all over Scotland.

Founder Enoch Adeyemi, who is also the chief executive of Black Professionals Scotland, said he needed to “highlight the achievements of the Black Scottish community”.

He said: “We are thrilled to launch The Black Scottish Awards and celebrate the amazing contributions of the Black Scottish community.

“The awards aim to recognise the incredible achievements of individuals and organisations who have made a significant impact on Scotland.”