Stockport Race Equality Partnership (S-REP) has announced the return of the Stockport Race and Culture Awards 2026, taking place in February 2026 at Stockport Town Hall.
Since its launch, the Stockport Race and Culture Awards have become a flagship event in Stockport’s calendar, recognising those who make exceptional contributions to race equality, community leadership and cultural wellbeing. Each year, the ceremony brings together businesses, community groups and public bodies to celebrate the borough’s richly diverse communities and their role in shaping its future.
Now in their fourth year, the awards will once again shine a spotlight on the individuals, organisations and initiatives that are breaking barriers, building bridges and shaping a fairer, more inclusive Stockport. Last year’s event saw more than 300 guests come together, representing all corners of the globe to celebrate Stockport’s diverse communities and the people driving change.
The 2026 theme, “Purpose driven. Future focused.” forms part of S-REP’s wider anniversary campaign marking five years of pioneering leadership and community empowerment. The campaign reflects on the achievements of the past while investing hope and recognition in the leaders of the future. It is a bold commitment to supporting ethnically diverse communities, empowering young people and championing equality at every level.
S-REP has also confirmed Stockport circular economy pioneer, musicMagpie, as headline partner for the 2026 Awards. Their continued support as a leading Stockport business highlights the important role that local employers play in promoting inclusion and community cohesion across the borough.
Stockport Council will also sponsor the Distinguished Service to Ethnically Diverse Grassroots Communities Award, which recognises exceptional leadership and impact within community-based organisations supporting ethnically diverse residents.
The Stockport Race and Culture Awards 2026 will once again centre the lived experiences, achievements and leadership within Stockport’s ethnically diverse communities. Through storytelling, celebration and community pride, the Awards highlight the ongoing role these communities play in shaping a vibrant and resilient borough. Award categories for 2026 will include:
- Voluntary organisation
- Unsung hero
- Helping hand
- Health and wellbeing champion
- Corporate social responsibility
- Distinguished service to ethnically diverse grassroots communities
- Young person of the year
Local and national businesses are being invited to sponsor one of these award categories or support the event as partners. Sponsors gain meaningful recognition as champions of inclusion, brand visibility across press and social media, and ten tickets to one of Stockport’s most joyful celebrations of diversity.
Aba Graham, Director of Stockport Race Equality Partnership, said:
“This is more than an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of the people who lift as they climb. For five years, these awards have honoured the leaders, elders, young innovators and everyday champions shaping the soul of our community. They remind us of the strength found in unity, compassion and shared purpose. We invite local businesses to stand with us in recognising and supporting the incredible communities that make our borough thrive.”
Details of how to nominate an individual or organisation for the awards can be found on the event’s website. For sponsorship enquiries, contact Stockport Race Equality Partnership.
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