Veterans Awards Summary 2024

 

The Veterans Awards

Rewarding Veterans, Serving Reservists, those companies that employ from our community and organisations that support us in the areas of Business, Fitness, Sport and the wider Community!

In support of The Army Benevolent Fund and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.

The Veterans Awards are a Not for Profit Organisation that promotes the positives from the Veteran and Military Community and those organisations that support us. It’s been put together by Veterans for Veterans in what has become our home nations national awards with three separate award ceremonies taking place in England, Scotland and Wales, we also support the Northern Irish Awards.  During our awards evenings we fundraise for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity alongside the Army Benevolent Fund.  Any money above and beyond costs is then distributed via a small grants scheme to smaller CIC’s and Charities who work at grass routes level within the veterans community and have a turnover of under 100k per annum! 

This year has seen our organisation promote and showcase so many positive individuals and organisations that are doing great things within our community. Our Independent panel is in the process of looking over the grant applications that will be issued to multiple Charitable Organisations that support our community across the UK. These grants will be issued in January and will comprise of events that bring veterans and their families together, promoting the positives from our community, supporting loneliness and isolation and also supporting local breakfast hubs that are the beating heart of our community. 

Our running total including donations, from our Auctions, raffles and our grant giving is sat at a fantastic

£64, 318.15

Thank you for everyone who supports our Awards, from sponsors, attendees, nominators, donators to finalists you are all really making a difference to our community!

 

The Army Benevolent Fund is the Army’s national charity, here for soldiers, past and present, and their families for life

 

The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity is the Principle Charity of the Royal Navy. The Charity Exists to support Sailors, Marines and their families for life!

 

Our Veterans Awards team are fully committed to supporting our Veteran Community. We celebrate the success and inspiring stories from our community by promoting them via our social media channels, networks and fantastic  media partners that include Pathfinder International Magazine and Eyes Front Magazine. We have been featured on BFBS Radio and also BBC news during 2024.

We have a Board of Directors and an Inspirational panel in place who operate in a voluntary capacity to run Veterans Awards CIC, ensuring all money raised above project costs goes back into our Veteran Community and is used to improve services or to run projects that will help our Veterans and our Community.

In the UK, we have a huge number of highly successful Armed Forces Veterans that have made the transition from the Military to civilian life and we want to reward these veterans who have gone above and beyond and excelled in their relevant fields. They will act as role models for future service leavers. We want to find the people who even during the most difficult periods have excelled!

As such, we feel they should be given every opportunity to highlight their achievements and success, which is why the awards and our other projects have been created.

The Veterans Awards are open to all our Military Veterans that are doing great things in the UK, Reservists that are going above and beyond and those companies that go the extra mile to support or recruit from our community!

If you are a Company or Organisation that wish to become one of our Partners or Sponsors at our Awards or projects please feel free to get in touch. We have a number of fantastic companies that currently support us and we are so thankful to them because without these companies we wouldn’t be able to do what we do! We will ensure we work with you and your team or building a strong relationship and partnership.  To get in touch or find out more click here

If you have a positive story or journey please get in touch and we are happy to promote it via our social media sites through our media team!

Remember it’s you that will act as a role models for future service leavers!

CIC Registration  number: 12249389

Welcome to our Veterans Awards Main Sponsors, Thales Group!

 

Our team at Veterans Awards are proud to announce that Thales will become our Main Veterans Awards sponsor for 2025!

We look forward to hosting the team at Thales at the Scottish Veterans Awards that will take place at fantastic 5* Venue of Prestonfield House on the April 30th a night that is in support of the ABF Scotland and Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.

Thales is a global technology company specialising in Aerospace, Cyber Security solutions, Digital Identify, Defence & Security and Space Propulsion Systems. Whilst they are a global business their footprint in the UK is both far-reaching and significant. With over 7000 people in the UK, they work across every country of the United Kingdom to help keep the nation safe and secure. For more than a century, Thales has exploited technology for the nation’s benefit, developing world-leading capabilities that help their customers think smarter and act faster. In its role as a strategic supplier to the UK, they deliver over £1bn in complex projects each year, both direct to MoD and the Home Office as well as via other primes and major multinationals in civil and defence markets. This ranges from delivering the digital identity and security that underpins our connected world, to designing the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. And including exports from the UK, they contribute £1.6bn per annum in economic value (along with approximately £400m in tax), whilst sustaining a UK supply chain of over 21,000 jobs

Thales has proudly reaffirmed its support to the Armed Forces Community by re-signing the Armed Forces Covenant. As a long-standing supporter and Gold Award holder of the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme, this renewed commitment reflects our continued dedication to both the individuals and families connected to the UK’s military services. With at least 10% of our UK workforce comprising members of the Armed Forces Community, we deeply value their training, experience, and the unique perspectives they bring. It is important to us to celebrate the achievements of those who have transitioned from Military life and who continuously go above & beyond, excelling in their fields, even when times have been tough. The re-signing of the Covenant marks not only a reaffirmation of our promises but also a deepening of our resolve to ensure that those who have served are supported in every possible way. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Armed Forces Community.

All our team are extremely thankful for the support you are giving our veteran community and we can’t wait to celebrate all the great things going on in our community at our awards across the UK together.

       

Welcome to our Winners at this years English Veterans Awards 2024!!

English-Veterans-Awards-Logo

Massive thanks to everyone who attended this year’s English Veterans Awards hosted by Richard Wyeth and held at the 4*De Vere Wokefield Estate on the 23rd October. The Awards were sponsored by Company X Consulting Ltd and in Support of The Army Benevolent Fund and The Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity! It was such a fantastic event with a great atmosphere in the room!

Well done to everyone who was nominated and shortlisted as finalists, we had a huge amount of applications and the shortlisting process was extremely difficult. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who put forward nominations, you are all doing amazing things in your relevant fields and you should be so proud of your achievements!

Extremely thankful and very honoured to have in attendance and hear from the Commodore Rob Bellfield CBE, Andrew Jameson OBE and the Army Sergeant Major Paul Carney  during the evening.

A special thanks also has to go to the Mini Pipe Band of the Reading Scottish Pipe and Drums, the Welsh Guards who were there supporting in their famous red Tunics and bearskins and our support from Cpl Larcombe and LCpl Laykin from 101 Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

We are so thankful to all our supporters, volunteers and sponsors who helped put this amazing night together!

We want to Inspire our future service leavers that great things can happen. It’s you who will act as role models and in some cases mentors, remember Positivity breeds Positivity.

Our Winners are :

Veterans Awards Champion:  Carl Shadrake

 

 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Print Inc 

Winner: Gareth Evans

Silver: Wayne Smallman

Bronze: Richard Bennett

 

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by Securitas

Winner: Carl Shadrake

Silver: Mark Harding

Bronze: Darren Wright

Bronze: Paul Minter

 

The Community Award – Sponsored by Strongmind Resiliency Training

Winner: Christopher Raymond Hurdman

Silver: Nick Wilson

Bronze: Les Heyhoe

Contribution to the English Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by Genesis

Winner: Sharlene Beech

Silver: Chris Taylor

Bronze: John Williams

 

Health & Well-being Award  – Sponsored by  Company X Consulting 

Winner: Veterans In Crisis

Silver: Phoenix Heroes CIC

Silver: Alabare

Bronze: Curtis Palmer Program

Bronze: James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Leader of the Year Award  – Sponsored by Leader Connect

Winner: Edward Dean

Silver: Tony Wright

Bronze: Kevin Sparrow


Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Hugh James

Winner: Ger Fowler

Silver: Neil Jurd OBE

Bronze: Patrick Glennon

 

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Pathfinder International Magazine 

Winner: CS PM Consultancy Ltd

Silver: Roke Manor Research Limited

Silver: Veterans into Logistics

Bronze: Amey ltd

Bronze: Corps Security

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Serica Energy 

Winner: Grayson Lewis Financial Planning

Silver: Patrick James Solutions

Bronze: The Chocolate Soldier Ltd

Veterans Group of the Year –  Sponsored by Eyes Front Magazine

Winner: The Veterans Hub, Isle of Wight CIC

Silver: The Bishop Auckland Veterans Group

Bronze: The Falklands War Heritage Centre

Bronze: Fighting With Pride

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Money and Me Solicitors 

Winner: Mark Harding

Silver: John Harker MBE

Bronze: Anne Carr

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Ethos

Winner: Thao Nguyen

Silver: Jonathon Hirst

Bronze: Joseph Overfield

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our Shortlisted Finalists, remember its you who inspire our future service leavers – Keep an eye out on Facebook and our social media sites for pictures and videos of the evening coming soon!

Meet the Judges at the English Veterans Awards 2024

 

Jason Davies, Head of Capability Growth & Business Development, CXC Group.

Jason is a Royal Navy veteran having served for 28 years within the Defence Medical Services. Operational experiences include Iraq, Afghanistan and leading a multidisciplinary healthcare team providing humanitarian support for the United Nations in South Sudan

For the last 5 years since leaving the Royal Navy, Jason has enjoyed working within the independent healthcare sector delivering transformation, leadership, management and regulatory programs. Now firmly back within the veteran community with CXC, Jason’s current role sees him responsible for identifying new talent, business opportunities, fostering strategic partnerships, and developing capability growth across the organization.

This is my first time on the judging panel and I am really looking forward to representing CXC in recognising the diverse talents and amazing achievements of my fellow veterans.

 

Sharon Hughes – Event Executive – Army Benevolent Fund

 The Army Benevolent Fund, the Army’s National Charity, supporting Soldiers, Veterans, and their families for life. I am the Events Executive for the Southeast Region, I work with a great team based in the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.  My role is to plan and deliver fundraising events, this year we have raised funds for the charity, holding successful events at Windsor Castle, Royal Ascot, and the Pyrenees to mention a few.

I am excited to be invited to be part of the judging panel, good luck to all the candidates.

Angela Windsor, Founder of Print Inc Embroidery & Print and Tarw Sports

I am the MD and Founder of Print Inc Embroidery & Print and Tarw Sports, based in Wales.  Print Inc are specialists within the embroidery industry and supply branded clothing, workwear and uniform to companies and the Military across the UK and Ireland.  Tarw Sports specialises within the sports industry and supplies bespoke sports kit such as Rugby/ Football/ Netball to Triathlon kits to various teams and clubs from grass roots to professional levels in the community and Military.

Having worked and been personally linked to the Military for several years, I am extremely passionate about supporting the welfare of our veterans and  their families in the community.  As a company and individually we actively participate in fund raising events and awareness raising, this year and Abseil with the ABF Solders Charity.  I also founded the Shoe Box Appeal for Veterans and their families, which we will run again this Christmas after a very successful first year launch.

The Veteran Awards are such an important event in our annual calendar, and recognising the inspirational work and efforts of our Veterans who have gone above and beyond is such a privilege to be a part of.

Emily Matthews – Army Benevolent Fund

I am the Engagement Officer of the Army Benevolent Fund, South East Office. I have the privilege of working with the Army, our County Committees, and supporters as we fundraise, organise events,  and bring Charity awareness to the region.  The ABF stands at the forefront of support for the Army family, being one of the largest funders in the sector. Last year we helped 75,000 people in 51 countries around the world. I am very proud to support soldiers, veterans, and their families for life.

It has been a pleasure to be on the judging panel for this year’s awards. To be part of a process that recognises the significant role veterans play in the community and business is an honour.  I am grateful to be able to play a part in acknowledging the sacrifice, commitment, and contribution so many wonderful people have made to our society.

Peter Lewis – Leader Connect 

Through my work alongside Leader-Connect, I am passionate about giving back to the veteran community and supporting fellow service members. After transitioning from my role as an Army officer (ex-REME) to a diverse career in coaching, leadership training, and entrepreneurship, I’ve made it my mission to empower others through real-world experience and no-nonsense guidance. My work, including authoring the book ‘Operation Civvy Street’ and creating the online ‘Military Mentor Programme’, is driven by a deep commitment to helping veterans navigate their post-military careers and thrive in civilian life. It’s an honour to serve as a judge for the Veterans Awards, where I can continue to support the Armed Forces community and play my small part in their journey.

Colin Robertson  –  Securitas      

Colin is a Royal Airforce Veteran.  Colin has over 30 years’ experience in the Retail and Distribution Industry. This has allowed him to live, work and travel all over the UK and Ireland

After early Retirement Colin, joined the security industry 10 years ago and is currently an alarm monitoring agent in the Securitas Operations Centre despatching the Emergency Services when required.

Colin is also A belonging Champion actively promoting a Diverse, Supportive and Inclusive workplace Culture within Securitas delivering our belonging programme across sites and is also a member of the Securitas Veteran’s group, with specific responsibility as the Chair of the Securitas Conscious Carers Network Group supporting the unpaid carers within the company offering a safe and supportive space to the 1 in 7 people who undertake unpaid care to family and Friends.

Colin maintains his military ties as a member of the Royal Naval Association actively supporting charity events to Raise monies for our 2 nominated Charities.  Hounds for Heroes and 101 Navel cadet Group.

Colin is looking forward to being on the judging panel for the 2024 English Veterans Awards.

 

 

Sue Dorney MCTHA, Strongmind Resiliency Training 

Sue is a British Army veteran, where she served as an Experimental Assistant in Gunnery. She is the Co-founder and Director of Strongmind Resiliency training with over 30 years of experience in business administration and project management. During the first Gulf War in 1991 she was an Assistant Casualty Visiting Officer. Making her very familiar with the stresses experienced by people particularly those in public services.

Sue is really looking forward to meeting all the inspirational people at the Veterans Awards night!

Lucy Johnson, Chief Executive, Army Flying Museum

Lucy Johnson is the Chief Executive of the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop in Hampshire. The Army Flying Museum tells the story of the British Army in the air, from the early days of the Royal Flying Corps through the Glider Pilot Regiment and Air Observation Post to the modern Army Air Corps we have today. This year saw the Museum permanently display the first Apache AH-Mk.1 helicopter in Europe to complete the story of the development of the attack helicopter.

 The Army Flying Museum takes great pride in supporting the serving and veteran communities through events and admission, as well as having a significant number of veterans within the staff and volunteer teams. In 2024, the Museum achieved the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Employer Award. The Museum team work closely with the Army Air Corps to ensure the heritage of the Corps is being recorded for future generations and our mission is to help share those stories with the wider community.

 Lucy is honoured to have been asked to act as a Judge this year and is looking forward to hearing about all the amazing achievements and how veterans have contributed so positively to our community.

Rob Shaw – Business Development Manager and joint owner of Money and Me Solicitors Ltd (MMS).
Having spent 22 years in the financial services sector, I then opted to move into the world of financial claims. I joined Money and Me Claims Ltd in 2016, which then morphed into Money and Me Solicitors in 2020. At this point I took the opportunity to invest in, and own part of the company.
MMS specialise in recovering losses caused by poor financial advice, particularly pension transfer advice, which over the years has seen the UK public, including thousands of our Armed Forces personnel, lose out substantially.
The team and I are not only extremely proud of our track record, but just as important, the way we treat our Clients, often being the ‘go to’ reliable, honest, friendly voice at the end of the phone. The way we work, and the results we achieve, make a huge positive impact on the financial (and often mental) wellbeing of our (Armed Forces) Clients.
Although my colleagues and I have supported our Armed Forces charities many times over by attending events, sponsorship and fundraising, being part of the English Veterans awards is a first for me. I am very much looking forward to meeting the finalists, hearing their stories, and what positive impact they have made on others.

Nia-Wyn Evans  – Senior Associate Solicitor

I am a specialist military solicitor at Hugh James, based at our London office. I work within the military team representing serving and former military personnel.

Hugh James have proudly sponsored the Veteran Awards since its launch in 2019. I have been fortunate to be invited as a panel member for the awards since its launch and continue to be taken back by the incredible nominations submitted.

I look forward to further celebrating the success and contributions of the military community at the English Veterans Awards towards the end of this month.

Allan Doak – Materials Logistics and Purchasing Manager

Allan is a proud veteran how served 12 years with the Royal Air Force supporting the Nimrod Fleet both at home and abroad, as well as other out of area deployments.  Allan left the military in 1998 joining SERCo Defence whilst undertaking various training courses with a view to joining the Oil and Gas Industry.  Allan has held various positions with Operators on Drilling Campaigns and he now works for oil and gas operator Serica Energy as the Materials Logistics and Purchasing Manager and is a member of their Armed Forces Support Group whose mission is to support their veterans, reservists and forces families, whilst also raising industry awareness of the great benefits of employing veterans. The Group also provide funding and fundraising for various military charities and are a founding member and co-chair of the Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) Armed Forces Working Group.

Allan is honoured to join the judging panel for the English Veterans Awards this year and to see the fantastic achievements of the shortlisted finalists.

Sally Orange MBE – Current English Veterans Awards Champion
Sally is a former Army physiotherapist turned multi-record-breaking adventure athlete, devoted mental health campaigner and inspirational speaker.
Medically discharged with severe depression and anxiety after 22 years’ service, her transition to civilian life has seen her not just turn things around, but go on to demonstrate exactly what can be achieved when passion and purpose are present.
Running over 80 marathons, cycling across America and raising almost £1million are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to showcasing Sally’s amazing endurance feats and achievements, that she now shares with others in a bid to change the conversation on mental ill health.
Sally was extremely proud to win the ‘Role Model of the Year’ category and went on to be crowned the overall 2023 English Veteran of the Year.
She is delighted to have been invited to be a judge for the 2024 English Veterans Awards and celebrate the finalists achievements.

 

 

Meet our Shortlisted Finalists for the English Veterans Awards 2024!

The Veterans Awards are proud to announce our shortlisted Finalists for this years English Veterans Awards, due to be held at the 4* De Vere Wokefield Estate, Reading on the 23rd October 2024 sponsored by CXC Ltd. The awards are in support of The Army Benevolent Fund and The Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity. The awards are hosted by the amazing Radio X DJ and Sky Sports Presenter Polly James.

Well done to everyone who has been shortlisted as finalists. Every year we have more and more applications and this year yet again we had the most amount of applications received for any of our previous Veterans Awards in the UK and the shortlisting process was extremely difficult. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who put forward nominations.

We want to Inspire our future service leavers that great things can happen. Its you who will act as role models and in some cases mentors, remember Positivity breeds Positivity.

Our Finalists are :

 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Print Inc 

Jonathan Stone
Edward Mackenzie
Michelle Wiggins
Cletus Salia
Andy Fox
Karen Langley
Richard Bennett
Gareth Evans
Wayne Smallman

 

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by Securitas

Mark Harding
Darren Wright
Nicola Mcgee
Philip Jones
James Evans
Carl Shadrake
Ken Hames
Paul Montgomery
Paul Minter
Kevin Wills

 

The Community Award – Sponsored by Strongmind Resiliency Training

Nick Wilson
Rod Hudson
Les Heyhoe
Bob Field
James Richardson
Christopher Raymond Hurdman
Chris Blyth
Anthony McDermott

Contribution to the English Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by Genesis

John Williams
Sharlene Beech
Chris Taylor

 

Health & Well-being Award  – Sponsored by  Company X Consulting 

Airedale NHS Foundation Trust
Veterans In Crisis CIC
East Durham Veterans Trust
James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Curtis Palmer Program
Remaster Your Mind
VETERAN RETREAT CLUB CIC
Phoenix Heroes CIC
Alabare

Leader of the Year Award  – Sponsored by Leader Connect

Kevin Sparrow
Thomas Connelly
Edward Dean
Tony Wright


Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Hugh James

Ger Fowler
Nicola Hamlet
Patrick Glennon
Paul Montgomery
Neil Jurd

 

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Pathfinder International Magazine 

Corps Security
Veterans into Logistics
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service
Amey ltd
Roke Manor Research Limited
CS PM Consultancy Ltd
Alabarè

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Serica Energy 

Grayson Lewis Financial Planning
Patrick James Solutions
The Chocolate Soldier Ltd

Veterans Group of the Year –  Sponsored by Eyes Front Magazine

Fighting With Pride
The Falklands War Heritage Centre
The Bishop Auckland Veterans Group
Veterans In Crisis CIC
Veterans’ Growth
Bike Tours for the Wounded
The Veterans Hub, Isle of Wight CIC
Phoenix Heroes CIC
Art 4 Veterans Hereford

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Money and Me Solicitors 

John Harker MBE
Mark Harding
Anne Carr
Philip Jones
James Evans
Ashley Winter
Sarah Atherton

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Ethos

Jonathon Hirst
Thao Nguyen
Joseph Overfield
Claire Jones

The Winners will be chosen by our Independent Judging Panel. The Judging panels names and profiles will be released over the coming weeks.

Our Shortlisted  finalists will be filmed in the fantastic Location of the Army Flying museum on the 18th September.  These videos will then be used on our extensive media campaign and will also be played on the evening itself, you will also receive your finalist certificate & Badge on this fantastic morning and get to network with the other finalists, sponsors and dignitaries.  There is also the option to look around the museum prior or after your filming slot.

The Army Flying Museum is located at Middle Wallop, close to Andover, in Hampshire. The Museum tells the story of British Army Flying from the early days of military ballooning to the modern Army Air Corps. The collection was started in 1946 at RAF Andover but later moved to Middle Wallop and first opened to the public in 1974.

In 1984, the Museum moved from a location “behind the wire” to a new, purpose-build hangar which is located on the edge of an active airfield. The Museum has since been extended twice more and now comprises two large aircraft halls (the Prince Michael of Kent Hall and the Hayward Hall) a learning centre, a 1940s house display, a play park and conference facilities.

The collection covers the five main branches of Army Aviation: Royal Engineers (1878 – 1912), The Royal Flying Corps (1912-1918), Air Observation Post Squadrons (1941 – 1957), the Glider Pilot Regiment (1942 – 1957) and the current Army Air Corps (1957- to date). Over 40 aircraft can be seen in the Museum. These range from a First World War biplane to a HueyCobra attack helicopter plus an example of every Allied glider used operationally during the Second World War.

Highlights of the collection include a Sopwith Pup – an example of a single-seat fighter introduced in 1916 -and a Lynx helicopter which broke the world speed record in 1972 by achieving an average speed of 199.92 miles per hour (321.74 km per hour) in a 100km closed circuit. It was also the first British helicopter ever to complete a barrel roll.

All our Shortlisted Finalists will have the opportunity to purchase tickets between 20th August –  24th September.

We are Charitable Not for Profit Organisation and all money above costs from our awards will put back into our  Veteran community via our small grants scheme for small grass routes charitable organisations  that support our veteran community and with a turnover of less than 100k per year. Details of this scheme will be released over the coming months. 

For more details please get in touch.

Welcome to our Winners at this years Welsh Veterans Awards 2024!!

Welsh Veterans Awards Logo

Massive thanks to everyone who attended this year’s Welsh Veterans Awards hosted by Polly James and held at the 4* Vale Resort. The Awards were sponsored by Vindico and in Support of The Army Benevolent Fund and Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity It was such a fantastic event with a great atmosphere in the room in what was our largest Welsh Veterans Awards to date on our fifth year anniversary!

Well done to everyone who was shortlisted as finalists, we had a huge amount of applications and the shortlisting process was extremely difficult. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who put forward nominations, you are all doing amazing things in your relevant fields and you should be so proud of your achievements!

Extremely thankful and very honoured to have in attendance and hear from the Welsh Veterans Commissioner Col James Philips, Air Commodore Rob Woods OBE, Commander Steve Henaghen, Lt Col Dafydd Evans and Regional Director of the ABF Charity Pete Davies.

A special thanks also has to go to the Corps of drums of the Royal Welsh and the Welsh Guards who were there supporting in their famous red Tunics.

The awards were also supported with a strong contingent from the British Army Reserves based at Bridgend and the Royal Navy Reserves team from HMS Cambria.

We are so thankful to all our supporters, volunteers and sponsors who helped put this amazing night together!

Some of the highlights of the night saw Roma Eliemaude Taylor  receive the Lifetime Achievement Award and become our Welsh Veterans Awards Champion with a standing ovation. Raymond Williams won a Gold (Fitness), Silver (Role Model) and a Bronze (Volunteer). Team Alabaré become our Employer of the year.

We want to Inspire our future service leavers that great things can happen. It’s you who will act as role models and in some cases mentors, remember Positivity breeds Positivity.

Our Winners are :

Veterans Awards Champion: Roma Eliemaude Taylor

 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Forces Employment Charity

Gold: Kelly Farr

Silver: Raymond Williams

Bronze: Neil Jeremiah

 

 

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by Porters Estate Agents

Gold: Richard Bennett

Silver:  Desmond Paul

Bronze: Marc Sherlock

The Community Awards – Sponsored by Vigilance

Gold: Melvin Watts

Silver: Dawn Parkin

Bronze: Kevin Stanley

 

 

Contribution to the Welsh Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by Print Inc

Gold: Raymond Williams

Silver: Christopher McEwen

Bronze: Kieran Hackney

 

Health & Well-being Award  – Sponsored by  Audi Sinclair 

Gold: YourNorth

Silver: Therapies4services CIC

Bronze: Ajuda LTD

Bronze: Links

 

Leader of the Year Award  – Sponsored by  Eyes Front 

Gold: Ashley Thomas

Silver: James Cadmore

Bronze: Charles Scarf

 

 

Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Pinnacle Complete Office Solutions 

Gold: Daniel Edmunds

Silver: John Evans

Bronze: James Tipping

 

 

 

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Credas

Gold: Alabaré

Silver: Espanaro LTD

Bronze: Cardiff Bus

 

 

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Educ8 Training

Gold: Espanaro LTD

Silver: Sudocyber LTD

Bronze: So Fit Group

 

 

Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by Pathfinder Magazine

Gold: Moawian Bin-Sufyan

Silver: Nigel Jones

Bronze: Raymond Williams

 

 

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Hugh James

Gold: Roma Eliemaude Taylor

Silver: Mark Evans

Bronze: Melvin Watts

Bronze: Garden ‘pop’ White

 

 

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK 

Gold: Simon Parsons

Silver: Huw Gruffyd Williams

Bronze: Craig Middle

 

Veteran Group of the Year ( 1 – 5 Years)- Sponsored by Vindico

Gold: Female Veterans Alliance

Silver: The Veterens & Communities Hub

Bronze: Taff Ely Veterans Group

 

Veteran Group of the Year ( 5+ Years)- Sponsored by Veterans Trees 

Gold: Barry Veterans Group

Silver: Valley Veterans Group

Bronze: The HMP Swansea Veterans’ Team

 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our Shortlisted Finalists, remember its you who inspire our future service leavers – Keep an eye out on Facebook and our social media sites for pictures and videos of the evening coming soon!

Meet the Judges at the Welsh Veterans Awards 2024

Meet The Judges 

Our Gold, Silver and Bronze award winners of each category have been chosen by our Independent Judging Panel. The Judging panels names and profiles are all below. No Judges took part in judging of any categories they have affiliations or close relationships with or shortlisted finalists that are known to them on a personal level, full disclosure was carried out at the start of the panel and Judges were spilt into separate pods to ensure fairness to all shortlisted finalists.

Our Shortlisted  finalists will be filmed in the fantastic Location of The Firing Line Museum Cardiff Castle on Wednesday 12th June. These videos will then be used on our extensive media campaign and will also be played on the evening itself, you will also receive your finalist certificate and get a chance to network with other finalists on this fantastic morning.

All our Shortlisted Finalists / Supporters have the opportunity to secure your tickets between  28th May – 14th June.

All money above costs from our awards will put back into our  Veteran community via our small grants scheme for small grass routes Charitable organisations that support our Veteran Community and with a turnover of under 100k PA. 

Dan Keane – Chief Project Officer Vindico

Within my current role within Vindico, I focus on delivering the organisation’s growth strategy by overseeing the successful delivery of the diverse project portfolio; ensuring alignment and delivery of both customer and business goals.

Prior to joining Vindico, my experience was obtained within the Defence and Higher Education sectors, having held multiple leadership roles responsible for wide-ranging and varied operational services and portfolios.

It’s great to be involved with the Welsh Veterans Awards as part of the judging panel, as supporting the veteran (and wider military) community is something that the business and I are very keen on and care a great deal about.

Knowing how difficult it can be to transition from military to civilian life, as well as also being very aware of the talent and capability that our Armed Forces Veterans possess, I’m thoroughly looking forward to hearing about the successes of the people nominated for the awards and delighted to be able to contribute to their well deserved recognition.

 

 

Natasha Baker – Director of People and Culture,  Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission System UK Ltd

My name is Natasha Baker. I am a qualified BACP accredited Integrative therapist that has worked within the helping sector for over 18years. For the past  8 years I have worked as the Director of People and Culture at Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission System UK Ltd., a role that highlights a profound commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic workplace environment for veterans. My 8-year career has dedicated to strategic human resources management and organisational development at Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission System. A company founded in Wales and strives to foster homegrown talent

Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission System UK Ltd. has experienced significant growth. Starting from a modest team of 5 veterans, the company has expanded to a robust workforce of over 100 employees, with veterans comprising more than half of the team. This remarkable achievement underscores a commitment to providing career opportunities for veterans, leveraging their unique skills and experiences.

I am honoured to be part of The Welsh Veterans Award judging panel, committed to recognizing the extraordinary talents and accomplishments of veterans who continue to serve their communities and industries with distinction. Not only am I a passionate in the support Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission System Uk Ltd offers, but I am a proud veteran’s wife who supported her husband within his military career.

Francesca Bamsey – Senior Associate Solicitor

I am a specialist military solicitor at Hugh James based in our Cardiff office. I work within the military team representing serving and former military personnel.

I am delighted to be part of the Welsh Veterans Awards Judging Panel again this year. Since it’s launch in 2019, my firm Hugh James have been proud sponsors of the Veterans Awards and I have attended the majority of the events held in Wales, England and Scotland and I was honoured to be asked to present an award at the Scottish Veterans Awards in April 2023.

I am looking forward to hearing the inspiring stories and recognising the fantastic achievements of our finalists this year and celebrating their success at the Welsh Veterans Awards in July.

 

 

Kathryn Wing, Director of Quality and Compliance Director at the Educ8 Training Group

 

Kathryn Wing is the Director of Quality and Compliance at the Educ8 Training Group, who offer a range of fully-funded Apprenticeship Programmes across Wales.  Educ8 are proud sponsors of the Veteran Owned Business Award, a fantastic category showcasing a range of inspirational businesses and passionate business owners.

“This is the second year I have represented the Educ8 Group on the judging panel and I continue to be inspired by the individuals and organisations nominated.  The contribution veterans make to the Welsh economy should not be under-estimated.  The nominations have been of an exceptionally high standard and the winners deserve to highlighted as a group, determined to give something back to their community”

 

Lisa Rawlings  –  Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK

Lisa spent 25 years in the Royal Air Force as a Flight Operations Manager, serving worldwide. Working within the Armed Forces Community she has founded 3 Veteran Hubs in Gwent, is Co-Founder of the Female Veterans Alliance and Chair of the Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committee (VAPC) Wales. Since leaving she has also achieved a Masters in Global Governance.

Lisa now works for Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK a trusted leader in innovative, advanced technology solutions and open architecture integrations for aerospace and national security customers.

Winner of the Role model of the Year 2022 and Overall Champion of the Welsh Veteran Awards the same year she has supported the awards since inception and truly honoured to be on the judging panel.

 

Peter Davies – Army Veteran, Business Owner, Regional Director, Wales (Army Benevolent Fund).

Peter Davies is a dedicated British Army veteran, embodying a rich heritage of military service spanning five generations within his family. With an illustrious career of over 23 years in the British Army, Peter’s commitment to the mission of the Veterans Awards runs deep.

Currently serving as the Regional Director for the Army Benevolent Fund in Wales, Peter is fervent about advancing its mission, reaching diverse audiences to garner support and aid for those in need. His exemplary service was recognized in 2016 with the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours military list, underscoring his remarkable dedication to the British Army.

Beyond his noble work with the Army Benevolent Fund, Peter is also a director at Gum Blitzer Ltd, a leading commercial cleaning enterprise offering top-tier services across the UK. He takes pride in steering his team towards excellence, fostering enduring client relationships.

In his leisure pursuits, Peter embraces adventure with gusto, tackling challenges such as the gruelling Marathon des Sables and traversing over 100 marathons globally. His adventurous spirit extends to cycling in America and the French Alps, trekking to Everest Base Camp and Mount Toubkal, and recently conquering a 100km journey across the Sahara and Jordanian deserts, as well as scaling Jordan’s highest peak, Um Dami. He embodies a philosophy of embracing life’s opportunities to the fullest.

As a distinguished judge for the Welsh Veterans Awards, Peter brings a wealth of experience and empathy to the table. He intimately understands the trials faced by veterans and their families, and remains resolute in honouring and celebrating their invaluable contributions and achievements.

 

 

Nicholas Ledingham – Chief Operating Officer, Credas Technology Ltd, Cardiff

Nicholas is a former Royal Navy Artificer and Officer

Since leaving the Navy I have held board level positions in multiple industry sectors, leading multi-national and multi-cultural teams across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Having experienced first-hand the breadth of talent that exists in our Armed Forces, I am proud to be able to join in recognising the achievements and initiatives of the 2024 finalists. As a leader within one of leading tech ventures in Wales, I am pleased to support the Welsh Veterans Awards.

 

 

Jack Dickinson – Solicitor, Hugh James

I am a military solicitor at Hugh James, based at our head office in Cardiff. I specialise in providing legal representation and legal services for veterans and currently serving members of the armed forces.

I am also involved with various groups in the veterans community, and fundraising for key veterans charities.

Hugh James have proudly sponsored the Veterans Awards since 2019, and I have seen the awards grow from strength to strength. I look forward to meeting all the finalists and celebrating the difference they have made,

and their incredible achievements after transitioning to civilian life.

 

 

 

Sarah Stafford – Forces Employment Charity 

Sarah is based in Wales and joined the Forces Employment Charity (FEC) in February 2018 following a career over 20 years in the Financial Industry.

I joined the FEC to work on the Career Transition Partners (CTP) a contract which is the official resettlement provider on behalf on the Ministry of Defence who supports service leavers 2 or 5 years pre and 2 years post leaving the military.

I am the Employer Relationship Manager, and my region covers all of Wales I work with employers to manage relationships from large multinational employers to more local SMEs helping them with their recruitment activities.

Sarah is a member of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation

Meet our Shortlisted Finalists for the Welsh Veterans Awards 2024!

The Veterans Awards are proud to announce our shortlisted Finalists for this years Welsh Veterans Awards, due to be held at the fantastic venue of the 4* Vale Resort on the 3rd July and hosted by Radio X’s Polly James. Our Awards are sponsored by Vindico and in Support of The Army Benevolent Fund Charity and the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity!

Well done to everyone who has been shortlisted as finalists. We had 100’s of applications and the shortlisting process was extremely difficult. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who put forward nominations.

We want to Inspire our future service leavers that great things can happen. Its you who will act as role models and in some cases mentors, remember Positivity breeds Positivity.

Our Finalists are :

 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Forces Employment Charity

Neil Jeremiah
Kelly Farr
Ryan Phillips
Laura Jayne Carroll
Raymond Williams
Adam Clamp

 

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by Porters Estate Agents

Marc Sherlock
Desmond Paul
Matt Losing
Matt Campbell-Henry
Richard Bennett
Matthew Evans

The Community Awards – Sponsored by Vigilance

Kevin Stanley
Melvin Watts
Moawia Bin-Sufyan
Dawn Parkin
Christopher McEwen

 

Contribution to the Welsh Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by Print Inc

Kieran Hackney
Christopher McEwen
Raymond Williams

Health & Well-being Award  – Sponsored by  Audi Sinclair

YourNorth
Ajuda Ltd
Therapies4services CIC
Kie to Fitness
Ferndale Maerdy Medical Group
Ara Recovery 4 all
Links

Veterans Group of the year (5yrs+ Old) – Sponsored by Veterans Trees

Group 617
Cardiff City FC Foundation Armed forces Veterans Hub
Barry Veterans Group
The HMP Swansea Veterans’ Team
Valley Veterans Group
United Services Mess Cardiff

 

Veterans Group of the year (1 – 5yrs old) – Sponsored by Vindico

The Veterans & Communities Hub 
Taff Ely Veterans Group
Monmouthshire Veterans’ Support Hub
Female Veterans Alliance
Merthyr Valley Veterans
RV32 Veterans Allotment
Veterans RV Swansea

 

Leader of the Year Award  – Sponsored by  Eyes Front

Charles Scarf
Ashley Thomas
James Cadmore
John Evans
Matthew Evans
Adam Clamp

 


Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Pinnacle Document Solutions Group

Daniel Edmunds
James Tipping
John Evans

 

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Credas

Espanaro Ltd
M&D Care Operations Ltd
Alabaré
Cardiff Bus

 

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Educ8 Training

Espanaro Ltd
SO FIT Group
Boots on the Ground South Wales Ltd
SudoCyber Ltd
Becws Mon Bakery

 

Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by Pathfinder Magazine

David King
Nigel Jones
Moawia Bin-Sufyan
Raymond Williams
Matthew Rivers
Christopher Headon
Andrew Macdonald – Rice

 

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Hugh James

Natalie Ellis-Burt
Gordon ‘Pop’ White
David Bell
Melvin Watts
Mark Evans
Roma Eliemaude Taylor

 

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK

Craig Middle
Huw Gruffydd Williams
Simon Parsons

 

The Winners will be chosen by our Independent Judging Panel. The Judging panels names and profiles will be released over the coming weeks. No Judges will judge on categories if they have any affiliations or close relationships with shortlisted finalists that are known to them.

Our Shortlisted  finalists will be filmed in the fantastic Location of The Firing Line Museum Cardiff Castle on Wednesday 12th June. These videos will then be used on our extensive media campaign and will also be played on the evening itself, you will also receive your finalist certificate and get a chance to network with other finalists on this fantastic morning.

All our Shortlisted Finalists / Supporters have the opportunity to secure your tickets between  28th May – 14th June.

All money above costs from our awards will put back into our  Veteran community via our small grants scheme for small grass routes Charitable organisations that support our Veteran Community and with a turnover of under 100k PA. 

For more details please get in touch.

Welcome to our Winners at this years Scottish Veterans Awards 2024!

We would like to thank everyone who attended this years Scottish Veterans Awards hosted by Mark McKenzie and held at the amazing 5* Prestonfield House, Edinburgh on the 24th April 2024.  The Awards were sponsored by Gone Solar and in Support of The ABF Scotland. It was such a fantastic event with a great atmosphere in the room!

Well done to everyone who was shortlisted as finalists, we had a huge amount of applications and the shortlisting process was extremely difficult. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who put forward nominations, you are all doing amazing things in your relevant fields and you should be so proud of your achievements!

Extremely thankful and very honoured to have in attendance and hear from the Brigadier Jody Davies MBE, James Thomson OBE, Scottish Veterans Commissioner Susie Hamilton, John Donovan MBE and the fantastic Edinburgh Garrison Sergeant Major Ruaridh Tuach during the evening. A special thanks also has to go to the Mini Pipe Band from the 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland and also the two 5 Scots soldiers who were there supporting in their ceremonial dress.

We are so thankful to all our supporters, volunteers and sponsors who helped put this amazing night together!

The highlights of the night saw NHS Golden Jubilee win Employer of the year! The fantastic Callum MacLeod won four awards – Golds in the Community and Volunteer category, Silver in Inspiration of the year and Callum also became our Scottish Veterans Awards Champion for 2024, ending with a standing ovation and emotional speech!

We want to Inspire our future service leavers that great things can happen. It’s you who will act as role models and in some cases mentors, remember Positivity breeds Positivity.

Our Winners are :

Veterans Awards Champion:  Calum MacLeod 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Print Inc 

Gold     : Archie Dryburgh

Silver   : Rod Cavanagh

Bronze : Stacy Quinn

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by Eyes Front Magazine 

Gold     : Scott Meenagh

Silver   : Calum MacLeod

Bronze : Louise Worrall

 

The Community Award – Sponsored by Forces Employment Charity 

Gold     : Calum MacLeod

Silver   : Laura Simpson

Bronze : Alan Deans

 

Charity Sector Employer of the Year  – Sponsored by Prestonfield house

Gold     : Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company

Silver   : Wings for Warriors

Bronze : Sight Scotland & Sight Scotland Veterans

 

Health & Well-being Award  – Sponsored by  Be-inn Unity

Gold     : The Veterans Garden Dumfries

Silver   : Scottish Veterans Residences

Bronze : Operation Cairngorms CIC

 

 

Leader of the year – Sponsored by Strongmind Resiliency Training 

Gold     : Chris Shaw

Silver   : Craig Murney

Bronze : Christopher Buet

Bronze : Michael Mcmillan

 


Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Hugh James

Gold     : Jamie Kettyles

Silver   : Andrew Patterson

Bronze : Gregg Matthew

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Joint Force Alba

Gold     : NHS Golden Jubilee

Silver   : Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

Silver   : Lothian Buses

Bronze : Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS)

 

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Lairds AV

Gold     : Hold Fast Elite Ltd

Silver   : Wilkins Chimney Sweep Lanarkshire

Bronze : Forces Manor

 

Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by  Serica Energy

Gold     : Calum MacLeod

Silver   : Robert Conquer

Bronze : John Paul Stothard

Bronze : Ian Inglis

 

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Gone Solar 

Gold     : Martin Bell

Silver   : Steve Erskine

Bronze : Mick Flaherty

 

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Pathfinder Magazine

Gold     : Christian Jetuah

Silver   : John Kane

Bronze : Euan Smith

 

 

Veterans Group of the Year –  Sponsored by The Army Benevolent Fund 

Gold     : Military Museum Scotland SCIO

Silver   : Lothians Veterans Centre

Bronze : Gen Dit Network

Bronze : Royal marine riders association North

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our Shortlisted Finalists, remember its you who inspire our future service leavers – Keep an eye out on Facebook and our social media sites for pictures and videos of the evening coming soon!

Meet the Judges at the Scottish Veterans Awards 2024

 

Colin Vooght, Head of Engagement- Lowland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association

I’m responsible for engagement with the community including employers in the Lowlands of Scotland on behalf of Defence Relationship Management and Lowland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association . I am a veteran having served in the Army, a small business owner and a very proud Rotarian. I never cease to be amazed by just how successful service leavers can be, when they move from one chapter to another in their lives. I’m delighted to have been invited to be a judge for this competition and look forward to meeting you all.

Shelley Bamford – Strongmind Resiliency Training as Head of Training.

Shelley is a highly experienced and knowledgeable practitioner and trainer, with 15 years’ experience within the Social and Occupational Health domain. Shelley served for 23 years in the Royal Military Police and Army Welfare Service branches of the British Army.  Shelley was responsible for the delivery of specialist emotional and practical support to service personnel and their families, line management and relevant stakeholders worldwide, providing the moral component of fighting power for the armed forces.  Shelley worked with service personnel recovering from injury and was responsible for the delivery of policy in this area.  Committed to improving the health and well-being of all staff, she co-founded and successfully led a three-day holistic support programme for the Ministry of Defence, an innovative project designed to support those experiencing occupational stress.

 

Shelley holds a BSc (Hons) Psychology, Diploma in Social and Occupational Welfare, Diploma in Domestic Abuse studies and is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor and Lone Working and Personal Safety Trainer.  Shelley has varied qualifications in counselling and mentoring and has vast experience in the development and delivery of training opportunities regarding employee well-being.  Shelley’s area of expertise is domestic abuse, in particular, working with perpetrators and she provides training and consultancy on safeguarding, domestic abuse awareness, engaging with perpetrators and family court advocacy.  Shelley is a UK lead authority on domestic abuse in the military community.

Jason Hare – Director of Courses – Horseback UK

Jay studied engineering before entering the British Forces joining the Royal Marines Commandos. He served for over 14 years and was medically discharged in late 2014 due to life changing injuries.

Jay has deployed on many operations globally and led men in some of the world’s most stressful and hazardous environments, including a tour of Northern Ireland and three tours of Afghanistan. During these tours he was injured twice, once by a suicide bomber and secondly by standing on an IED. Jay lost his left leg below knee, digits to his right hand, suffered extensive shrapnel wounds, lost his left eye and suffered significant facial disfigurement in which it took 11 operations to rebuild his facial features.

Deploying all over the world from desert, jungle, and mountainous areas to arctic regions on numerous occasions, Jay brings a wealth of knowledge of leadership, teaching, coaching and mentoring to any event. He has delivered motivational and inspirational talks to various leading oil and gas companies, charities, VIP’s, events, television, radio, business organisations and universities, as well as instructing and aiding in workshops for many of them all over the country.

Jay holds various certificates and awards in teaching, personal development, sports and recreation, assessing, coaching and mentoring and is also the first and most injured serviceman to conduct offshore oil and gas safety training as well as spending time on a platform in the North Sea.

Jay has worked for HorseBack UK since the beginning, having been seconded initially by the Royal Marines Commandos during his own recovery; he is now the Course Director within the organisation and a Royal Marines Support Network Officer for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

 

Jack Dickinson – Solicitor, Hugh James  

I am a solicitor at Hugh James, based at our head office in Cardiff. I specialise in providing legal representation and legal services for serving, and ex – forces individuals. I also spend a lot of time supporting veterans communities through various events and fundraising efforts.

I have attended the previous Scottish, Welsh and English Veterans awards and enjoyed these thoroughly. I look forward to meeting all the finalists, and celebrating veterans who have made a difference, and all their incredible achievements after transitioning to civilian life.

 

 

David Dent MBE, CMgr, CCMI, FIoD, is an Executive Director and Head, Market and Business Development, EMEA  at Parexel Biotech

David  is an Executive Director and Head, Market and Business Development, Co-Leads of Global Disability Steering Committee and Honorary Professor at the University of Stirling and Entrepreneur in Residence at the Hayden Green Institute University of Nottingham.  He is a Fellow of the Institute of Directors and a Chartered Companion of the Chartered Management Institute.

He is a former winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award and Champions Award.

He in addition to his  work in business and education has competed Internationally in disabled veterans sport specifically in field athletics and Highland games where he is current world champion and record holder in Shot Put and an official at Scottish Athletics.

He served with the Army Medical Services mainly as a battlefield trauma specialist and critical care nurse and Regimental Nursing Officer in the 1990’s, he is a war disabled veteran after sustaining combat injuries himself, and in 2022 received and MBE for services to Students People with Disability and Veterans

The ability to see and be part of a process that recognises the significant role veterans play in life community and business  is an important way for us to show our appreciation and recognise the service sacrifice and contribution to our society at the same time as raising awareness of the extant challenges faced by these individuals.

 

John Gillie – Engagement Officer, ABF

The role encompasses briefing a wide range of audiences both military and civilian on the work of the Charity to encourage support to regional fundraising, provision of fundraising support to the Regional Office and Events, including organising events, establishing and maintaining key relationships with Army units both Regular and Reserve and continual development of our volunteer fundraising team.As an army veteran himself, John completed a 39 year exemplary career in 2020. He feels so privileged and honoured having the opportunity to once again read over all the wonderful stories that make our veterans so special in Scotland. He looks forward to the SVA’s annually, listening to how successful our veterans have been throughout the year.He is married to his wife of 35 years Sherrilyn with 3 sons, Liam (33), Danny (31) &  Ewen (26) all currently living life to the full both home & abroad. A close family who enjoy socialising together.“I was very pleased once again to be asked to be a judging panel member. As a veteran, this event is always one of many highlights I’m lucky enough to attend on an annual basis. It fills me with pride & emotion watching as the finalists get their deserved recognition on the night highlighting what improvements they make within their local community & nationally. Once again, I’ll look forward to celebrating the success of our Scottish Military Veteran Community in April along with those companies that support us”

Dougie MorganMy role encompasses supporting a wide range of Veterans, their families and serving personnel. It includes organising drop-in sessions over Scotland and Northern Ireland, establishing, and maintaining key relationships with Army units both Regular and Reserve and continual developing relationships with other charity organisations who also support Veterans.Dougie completed 38 years’ service in the Army and he feels so privileged and honoured to be the Operational Manager for Fighting With Pride covering Scotland and Northern Ireland.He has been in the role for 18 months and has had many challenges to face and has assisted so many LGBT+ Veterans to have their voice again after over 40 years of being silent.Dougie is married to his husband Graeme who has been great support over the years allowing him to be himself. They are a very close team who enjoy socialising together and are passionate about living life to the full.“I was very pleased to be asked to be panel member especially as a Military Veteran myself, I’m looking forward to celebrating the success of our Military Veteran Community in Scotland on the night itself along with those companies that support us”

Joanne Wilkinson-Thom – HSEQ Advisor – Serica Energy PlcJo is a proud veteran who served for 8 years with the Army as a Combat Medic, completing operational tours in Rwanda, Bosnia, and Kosovo. Jo left the military in 2000 and as part of her resettlement, undertook the NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety with a view to joining the Oil and Gas Industry. Having held various health and safety posts, Jo now works for oil and gas Operator, Serica Energy, as an HSEQ Advisor and is a member of their Armed Forces Support Group whose mission is to support their veterans, reservists and forces families, whilst also raising industry awareness of the great benefits of employing veterans. The Group also provide funding and fundraising for various military charities and are a founding member and co-chair of the Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) Armed Forces Working Group.Jo is honoured to join the judging panel for the Scottish Veterans Awards this year and see the fantastic achievements of the shortlisted finalists.

Nathan Goldsworthy  – Director Gone SolarI am the Director of Gone Solar and a HM Submarine veteran. Having served 12 Years in the Submarine Service, not really what you would call a high flyer and Just short of the 3 badge AB status. Since leaving the forces I moved into the world of IT working alongside the largest companies in the world. Now I run a number of companies, Fast WIFI Wales, Campsite WIFI and Gone Solar. All of which are based at our head office in South Wales.I understand what the military background can bring to business while also acknowledging the things military life has taken away. I want to use my experiences gained to help anyone looking to go down the same path. I am looking forward to being on the judging panel this year and seeing what other veterans are progressing with.

Danny is the Founder and Director  – Be-inn Unity

Danny is the Founder and Director of Be-inn Unity, a social enterprise that exists to inspire and educate communities, so that individuals are empowered to thrive. Danny served with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards for 9 years and is now a serving member of the Army Reserves with 32 Signal Regiment. Danny launched the social enterprise in 2021 and they have grown over the years to deliver education programmes across several local authorities in Scotland, working closely with young people, educators and business leaders, to create environments that promote meaningful relationships. Danny also launched The Veteran ERV, a Mental Health and Suicide Prevention peer support group for veterans.

Claire Sally –  Ex Forces Employment Consultant Scotland Central  – Forces Employment Charity

Forces Employment Charity understands and appreciates the tenacity and resilience of those who have served in the Armed Forces. Ex-servicemen and women hold many attributes including their dedication, humility and strong work ethic which is noticed and valued amongst the civilian community. We are proud to support the Scottish Veterans Awards 2024, which celebrates the veterans and organisations who continue to show the value that the veteran community brings to society in Scotland.