Rochdale Diversity Awards 2026 Finalists Announced

The finalists for the Rochdale Diversity Awards 2026 have been announced, with 25 individuals, organisations and community initiatives shortlisted for recognition across eight award categories.

Managed by Kashmir Youth Project since 2012, the Rochdale Diversity Awards celebrate the people and organisations helping to create a more inclusive, connected and welcoming borough.

Selected from more than 120 nominations, this year’s finalists represent the diverse range of people and organisations making a positive impact across Rochdale.

From community organisations and educational institutions to health professionals, public-sector partnerships and local employers, the shortlist showcases the breadth of work taking place to champion equality, diversity and inclusion across the borough.

The winners will be announced at the Rochdale Diversity Awards ceremony on Friday, October 23, at Rochdale Town Hall, bringing together community leaders, organisations, businesses and residents to celebrate excellence in equality, diversity and inclusion across the borough.

The Rochdale Diversity Awards 2026 are made possible through the support of sponsors and partners who share a commitment to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across the borough.

KYP would like to thank Action Together, Altus Education Partnership, For Generations to Come, The Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust, Harvest Touch Youth & Skill Community Hub, Hopwood Hall College, Ingeus, Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH), Rochdale Development Agency and Your Trust for their valued support of this year’s awards.

The Rochdale Diversity Awards 2026

Zulf Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of KYP, said: “We are incredibly proud to announce the finalists for the Rochdale Diversity Awards 2026.

“This year we received over 120 nominations, highlighting the remarkable commitment of individuals, organisations and community groups working every day to make Rochdale a more inclusive, welcoming and connected borough.

“The judging panel had the difficult task of selecting finalists from an exceptionally strong field of nominations. The quality of work taking place across our communities was inspiring, and every nomination demonstrated a real commitment to improving people’s lives and creating opportunities for others.

“Being shortlisted is a significant achievement, and I would like to personally congratulate all of our finalists. Their work represents the very best of Rochdale’s communities and the positive difference that people can make when they come together to support others.

“We are also extremely grateful to our sponsors and partners whose support makes these awards possible. Their commitment to celebrating diversity and recognising community achievement helps ensure these important stories are heard and celebrated across the borough.

“We look forward to welcoming finalists, supporters and partners to Rochdale Town Hall on 23 October to celebrate their achievements and recognise the outstanding contributions being made across our borough.”

The 2026 Finalists are:

Cohesion Award

Creative Voices x Touchstones Rochdale

Sunshine Snacks Limited

Breaking Barriers CIC

Merhaba Festival

Breaking Barriers Award

Rochdale Science Initiative CIC

Changing Lives Programme

Hopwood Hall College

Community, Voluntary & Faith Sector Award

Army of Kindness