Meet the Judges at the Scottish Veterans Awards 2023

 

Emma Davies,  Director of Joint Force Alba

Emma is the director for Joint Force Alba, a specialist ex-military recruitment company dedicated to the Scottish jobs market. She is a Veteran herself, having served for 13 years in the British Army, working in tri-service and multi-national environments in Germany, Iraq, Afghanistan and the USA. Alongside that, she developed a career in HR and recruitment in Scottish businesses, focusing on SMEs. She’s Chair of the Board of Trustees for military charity Lothian’s Veterans centre and a board member for West Lothian Chamber of Commerce. In her personal life, Emma is married to a fellow Army Veteran and mum to 2 young boys.

 

 

Roy McLellan, Employer Engagement Director – Highland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association

My primary role within the business is meeting with employers to explain the benefits of employing Military Veterans / Reservists and the skills that they can bring to the workplace, promoting signing the Armed Forces Covenant and taking part in Defence Employer Recognition Scheme encouraging them to show publicly their commitment as an employer.

I have seen countless times the benefits that these people can bring to the workplace with their military skills easily transferring to civilian life, I was very keen to join the judging panel to see the fantastic showcase of achievements that former military staff have undertaken since leaving the armed forces.

Chris Gillan – Founder and Director of Heroes Drinks Company C.I.C

Chris founded Heroes Drinks Company in 2011, a multi-award winning premium alcohol producer and not-for-profit organisation that supports the military community.  Having served nine years in the Royal Air Force, with tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, Chris was discharged from service in 2010 with a minor injury that would impact his chosen career aspirations.  A sequence of events after his discharge, lead to him turn to the Armed Forces charities for help.  Chris founded Heroes Drinks to give back to these charities and to help promote awareness of their great work.

Chris is also a member of the Scottish Government’s Business Leadership Group, working alongside Scottish business leaders from various sectors to advise and support the Scottish Government’s Business Pledge, which was created for the purpose of supporting and encouraging high quality and fair work within Scotland based businesses.

“I am delighted and honoured to join the judging panel for the Scottish Veteran Awards; I have been an avid supporter of the Veteran Awards since its formation.  The awards do a fantastic job in highlighting the success and positive impact our veterans have in our local communities”.

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.

Gavin Nunn (MD – GHN Property & Developments & Founder of Ridgesteel)

Gavin is a true gent and has been extremely supportive of Veterans Awards CIC since its inception, Gavin does so much work behind the scenes to support programs and Charitable causes that support our community!

Gavin Nunn along with his life & business partner Helen Webb are both serial entrepreneurs. Gavin a former Army soldier, Military Veteran, High Level B2C and B2B Sales served in both 1WFR and 2 Mercian during the transition in 2007. Partner Helen Webb has previously worked within major bluechip food & beverage Companies inc Walkers, Vimto & Mars Chocolate and together they have raised four boys.

Gavin left the military and worked within the private sector, upon leaving Gavin founded RidgeSteel. in 2014. After a number of successful years of trading in 2020 he developed sister companies Ridge Lifting Solutions Ltd and Black Country Engineering Group Ltd. Gavin now operates as the Groups Financial Director to work on the businesses growth. As a team they manage the family life and both the businesses while Helen is also a School Governor.

2021 was the major pivot into property and developments after years of having a few additional properties. They now operate as a team to identify large return investments and manage their own multi-million £ property portfolio whilst mentoring others to do the same.

 

Huge thanks for the support, let’s inspire our future service leavers that great things can happen when they do decide to leave the Armed Forces!

 

John Gillie – Briefing & Liaison Officer ABF The Soldiers’ Charity – SCOTLAND

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.

John completed a 39 year exemplary career in the Army in 2020. He feels so privileged and honoured working as the BLO(Sc). As have many he has found the last 3 years extremely challenging but confident 2023 will bring a bit of light onto all within the service community. At last he is looking forward to getting out & about in Scotland & taking on the many challenges the role will bring. He hopes he can “give a little back” to a service which has provided him with so much. 

He is married to his wife of 35 years Sherrilyn with 3 sons, Liam (32), Danny (30) &  Ewen (25) all currently building their own careers. As a close family who enjoy socialising together & passionate about living life to the full.

 “I was very pleased to be asked to be a judging panel member for the third time. As a military veteran myself it makes me so proud & emotional to read the stories of what our veterans are doing out there for their communities. 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”

 

 

Meet our Shortlisted Finalists for the Scottish Veterans Awards 2023!

The Veterans Awards are proud to announce our shortlisted finalists for this years Scottish Veterans Awards sponsored by Joint Force Alba, due to be held at the Village Hotel Edinburgh on the 19th April 2023. Hosted by Radio DJ BFBS Scotland presenter Mark McKenzie and in Support of The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity Scotland!

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 Print Inc 

Christopher Shaw (The Gen Dit Network)
Jason Sumner
Ilimo (Mo) Torau
Brendan Forbes
Micheal McKeown
Johnny Allison
Scott Simon

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by GHN Property and Developments

Dougie Morgan
Daniel Macken
Amber Sokyrka
Craig Curtis
Tim Dalli

The Community Award – Sponsored by Joint Force Alba

 

David Devenney
William Graham
Mark Harper
Tony Brown
George Ross
Norman McConnachie
John Paul Stothard

 

ABF-The-Soldiers-Charity-Logo

Contribution to the Scottish Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

Barry Curtis
Micky Yule
Robert Wallace
Gavin Taylor
Norman McConnachie

 

Health & Well-being Award  – Sponsored by  GHN Property and Developments

Be-inn Unity C.I.C.
Omniscient Safety Innovations Ltd
Scottish Ambulance Service – The Pacemakers
Central Scotland Adventures
Veterans Tribe Scotland
The Veterans Garden

 

Leavers to Leaders Award  – Sponsored by Leavers to Leaders

Michael Flaherty
Gordon Mcfadyen
Craig Murney
Scott Simon

 


Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Hugh James

Jocelyn Wallace
Richie Nicoll
Christopher Davidson

 

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Joint Force Alba

NHS Golden Jubilee
IES Callenberg Ltd (A Trident Maritime Systems Company)
Poppyscotland Welfare
Scottish Ambulance Service
DXC Technology
Bottom Groundworks

 

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Lairds AV

Forbes & Son Property Maintenance Ltd
EC Aluminium LTD
Curtis Bros Fitness

 

Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by  Pathfinder International Magazine

George Ross
Mark Harper
John Paul Stothard
Hamish Mcgregor

 

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Veteran Trees

Dougie Morgan
Jason Sumner
Ian Stewart
Trish Mullen

 

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Pathfinder Magazine

Mark Crawford
Iain Davidson
Michael Flaherty

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 invited to a FREE certificate giving, filming and networking day at the Castle Club, Edinburgh Castle on Wednesday 15th March where we will film their story and videos. These videos will then be used on our extensive media campaign and will also be played on the evening itself. Our finalists will also receive their finalist certificate on this fantastic morning and get to network with the other finalists, sponsors and awards organisers.

All our Shortlisted finalists/family/friends and business colleagues will have the opportunity to purchase Tickets for the black tie award Ceremony due to be held at the Village Hotel Edinburgh on the 19th April 2023 between 25th February – 19th March. If we have any remaining tickets left they will then go on sale to our supporters.

To have a look at last years Scottish Veterans Awards please feel free to check out the Video = (63) Veterans Awards CIC – YouTube

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. Please see more here:  Veterans Awards Grants Scheme Proudly Supporting Charitable organisations across the UK! – The Veterans Awards 

For more details about our Veterans Awards please get in touch.

Veterans Awards Grants Scheme Proudly Supporting Charitable organisations across the UK!

 

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 ABF Soldiers’ Charity and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.

The Veterans Awards are a Not for Profit Organisation that promotes the positives from the Veteran 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 ABF The soldiers Charity.  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 issue grants to multiple Charitable Organisations that support our community across the UK, from 30 places on an all inclusive retreat for Military Veterans, events that bring veterans and their families together, health and well-being training 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

£23,920.25

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!

 

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the Army’s national charity, here for soldiers, past and present, and their families for life

 

ABF-The-Soldiers-Charity-Logo

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 BFBS.

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 Winners at this years English Veterans Awards 2022!!

English-Veterans-Awards-Logo

Massive thanks to everyone who attended this year’s English Veterans Awards hosted by Richard Wyeth and held at the Village Hotel and Leisure Club Portsmouth on the 7th September. The Awards were sponsored by Company X Consulting Ltd and in Support of The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity 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 Belfied CBE and Col John Baynham OBE during the evening. It was lovely to have in the room the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth Hugh Mason, Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth Marie Costa and David Richmond CBE

A special thanks also has to go to the Corps of drums of the Welsh Guards who were there supporting in their famous red Tunics and the team From MPCT Portsmouth Amber, John and Brandon.

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:  Lt Col Carl Meyer

 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Print Inc 

Winner  – Anna Vere
Silver – Edward Dean
Bronze – Paul Hughes
.

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by GHN Property and Developments

Winner  – Chris Thrall
Silver – Ashley Winter
Bronze –   Darren Parker

The Community Awards – Sponsored by Strong mind Resiliency Training

Winner  – Matthew Ellmer
Silver – Anthony McDermott
Bronze – Brian Gregory
.

ABF-The-Soldiers-Charity-Logo

Contribution to the English Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

Winner  -Jack Hearn
Silver – Sam Neil
Bronze – Gavin Smith
.

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

Winner  – Anxious Minds
Silver – We are with you
Bronze – Tough Enough To Care
.

Leavers to Leaders Award  – Sponsored by BNI 

Winner  -Kieron Yeoman
Silver – Mark Thomas
Bronze – Johanna Hooper
.

Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Hugh James
Winner  – Henry Waterfield
Silver – Tom Newey
Bronze – Neil Jurd
.

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Logistics and Security

Winner  – Somerset NHS Foundation Trust Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Silver – RB Safety Consultants Ltd
Bronze – FM Conway
.

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Veteran Trees 

Winner  – Veterans In Crisis
Silver – Challenge Coins UK Ltd
Bronze – imployable
.

Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by Pathfinder International Magazine

Winner  – Colin Gaylor
Silver – Dawn Civill-Williams
Bronze – Steven McDonald
.

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by FDM

Winner  – Jack Hearn
Silver – John Scivier
Bronze – Derek Cole
.

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Company X Consulting

Winner  – Lt Col Carl Meyer
Silver – Peter Kelly
Bronze – Chris Margett

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 2022

Jon Carter. Business Development Manager for Company X Consulting Ltd.

I am the BDM For Company X Consulting Ltd, a veteran owned Small to Medium Enterprise Consultancy, and previous winners of Business of the Year & Employer of the Year at the English Veterans Awards. I have worked alongside the military during my 20+ year career supporting MoD and Industry, before joining CXC Ltd in 2018.

My role as one of the 5 CXC Ltd Mgt Board members is head of all externally facing Business to Business and client relationships, lead for Strategy and Growth, and Head of Recruitment as a key element of this growth.

CXC Ltd has a strong affinity with the armed forces, services leavers and veterans, being a holder of a Gold Armed Forces covenant award and staffed by over 90% veterans across all 3 services. We actively support veteran organisations, a number of transition support functions (including Forces Transition Group, Officers Association and CTP), as well as sponsors of a number of Veteran focused causes and activities (including local sports, Women Into Employment, and the Royal Signals institute). We are there to support those service leavers who are considering a career in Consultancy with no obligation advice and guidance.

 

Hilary Hesbrook is the Supporter and Volunteer Engagement Lead for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity. 

Hilary Hesbrook is the Supporter and Volunteer Engagement Lead for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.  Portsmouth born and bred, Hilary has many connections to the naval service.  Her Great Grandfather was a Royal Marine and her step-father served in the Royal Navy. Hilary joined the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity in 2011, and is responsible for providing help and support to those fundraising or volunteering for the charity.  The majority of the supporters are serving personnel or veterans who like to give something back.

The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity is the principal partner charity of the Royal Navy. Beneficiaries lie at the heart of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity’s purpose, it is the charity’s duty to remain focused on their needs. Since 2007, they have funded projects and facilities that boost morale for those who serve today. The charity also distributes millions of pounds annually to military charities which care for the children, families and veterans of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.  In 2021, the charity formed a transition support team, whose aim is to assist those having to leave service earlier than expected, to ensure the best possible start to their civilian life.

Hilary is very much looking forward to helping judge the English Veteran’s Awards and hearing the inspirational stories of the nominees.

 

 

Darren Fuller – FDM Group – Regional Manager South, Ex Forces Programme

I am The Regional Manager South for FDM Groups Ex-Forces Programme, my day-to-day role sees me helping Ex-service personal of all ranks into successful careers within Tech or Business and continuing to support them whilst on that journey.

I had a full military career myself, spending over 20 years in The Parachute Regiment, those 20 years were some of the most exciting years of my life giving me memories that will last a lifetime. This time also helped me, gain considerable skills and experience that whilst at the time I might not have realised are highly sought after and transferable into the civilian job market. On leaving the forces in 2014 I settled in Colchester with my wife and children.

During the past 8 years I have stayed within the force’s community working for military charities gaining experience in employment, Fundraising, Governance and Welfare, before starting in my current role with FDM.

I’m really looking forward to being on the judging panel for the 2022 English Veterans Awards, to play a small part in Celebrating the talent and success that Ex-Forces bring to their communities is something I’m honoured to do.

 

Richard Dorney MBE, MStJ, MSc – Director Strongmind Resiliency Training 

Richard is the Director of Strongmind Resiliency Training. Strongmind provides training around Mental Health, Resilience and Trauma Risk Management to a wide range of organisations at home and abroad. The company specialises in supporting those in the toughest jobs from the NHS, police and many other public sector bodies. Strongmind is the lead provider of these services to the UK Government Campus. Our core team of trainers and admin staff are all veterans or military spouses.

Richard served almost 39 years in the British Army as a soldier, Warrant Officer and late Entry Officer. He was responsible for establishing the British Army Trauma Risk Management Training Team and was the subject lead for some years. He also worked in the Army Recovery Capability where he was responsible for the policy relating to wounded injured and sick personnel. Since leaving the Army in 2015 his company has trained thousands of public and private sector staff in mental health, trauma and resilience. He holds an MSc in War and Psychiatry and is himself a recipient of the English Veterans lifetime achievement award.

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.

 

 

Samuel T Ready, Entrepreneur, Director and Author:

Samuel T. Reddy is passionate about seeing the best in leaders. He is a visionary global leader, leadership transition strategist, author, researcher and an impact entrepreneur based in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Samuel is a multi award winning member of the British Armed Forces, an International Bestselling author of the book Leavers To Leaders, which has reached an Amazon #1 bestseller in the UK, USA, Australia and Canada.
He is the CEO of TriAtis Global Leadership, a UK based international training and development organisation specialising in career & leadership transition in 3 continents to keep Leaders relevant, rigorous and responsive. Samuel has taken part in various Shows and is a natural in front of the camera both as a guest and a host. One particular show recorded at University of Southampton Business School is the LOS Cast – a series of talks with business leaders on change, strategy and leadership. As an Inspirational Keynote Speaker he regularly speaks on the ‘3 L.O.S of Leadership’ & the ‘Leaders Operating System’. Samuel is also the co-founder of TriPotential CIC, a social enterprise set up to help the UK government have more cognitive diversity in the military & uniformed services. As a citizen of two commonwealth countries, Samuel believes strongly in sustainable leadership, and has aligned all his books & programmes to improve youth literacy in disadvantaged countries. He is the patron of ‘The Sugarcane Boy‘ Book Club to help children have a book to read at home.

 

 Amelia Davis – Paralegal within the military team at Hugh James

I am a Law student at Cardiff University and have recently completed a placement year with Hugh James. I work as a paralegal within the military team at Hugh James, assisting military and ex-military servicemen and women who have sustained injuries in service.

 My role at Hugh James has highlighted how difficult the transition from military to civilian life can be for some individuals. To gain additional experience and to apply this within the veteran community, I have recently completed my training as a SSAFA volunteer mentor, which will enable me to offer one-to-one support to recent service leavers.

 I am really excited to get involved with this year’s English Veteran Awards and hear all about the achievements of the finalists.

Jason Gillard – Director of Mercury Fitness and Founder of Veterans Awards Northern Ireland

Jason Gillard served 13 years in the Royal Signals as a Radio systems operator and PTI.
On leaving the army Jason moved into the close protection world as a CPO in Afghanistan and Iraq.
In 2016, Jason started his business Mercury fitness NI which is an outdoor bootcamp and has gone on to be voted the No1 bootcmap at the Irish fitness awards in 2020.
He is also the organiser of the Veterans Awards NI.

 

English Veterans Awards – Shortlisted Filming day National Museum of the Royal Navy

What a fantastic day, Networking, presenting certificates and filming our amazing finalists at the National Museum of the Royal Navy at the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth!
It was a true honour to meet our shortlisted Finalists for the English Veterans Awards in support of the ABF The Soldiers’ Charity – South East and Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity
All our team can’t wait to hear about your inspiring journeys on the evening itself!
Huge thanks to all the amazing team at the National Museum of the Royal Navy for making us feel so Welcome and for facilitating the filming and certificate giving day, John Scivier for his fantastic tour of HMS Victory, our sponsors from CXC Ltd, Leavers to Leaders, Strongmind Resiliency Training, RNRMC and BNI for presenting the certificates to our finalists.
We were very privileged for Lady Mayoress Marie Costa and Lord Mayor Hugh Mason attend and give out certificates to our finalists.
All our team are so excited to celebrate your success! Remember it’s you who act as role models for future service leavers!
Thanks to all our Sponsors, supporters and finalists who make this event every year the huge success it is!
Watch this space on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook for some of the shots from the day that will be released over the coming days and the videos will be released the week before our main awards ceremony that takes place on 7th September!

Meet our Shortlisted Finalists for the English Veterans Awards 2022!

The Veterans Awards are proud to announce our shortlisted Finalists for this years English Veterans Awards, due to be held at the Village Hotel Portsmouth on the 7th September 2022. The awards are in  support of The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and The Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity!

Well done to everyone who has been shortlisted as finalists. 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 

Anna Vere
David Orwin
Paul Hughes
Jon Murray
Kelly Wilson
Edward Dean

Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by GHN Property and Developments

Stu Bratt
Scott Mairr
Darren Parker
Ashley Winter
Chris Thrall
Anthony Malone

 

The Community Awards – Sponsored by Strong mind Resiliency Training

Brian Gregory
Benjiman Sutton
Matthew Ellmer
Anthony McDermott
Roy Newport
Gary Weaving

 

ABF-The-Soldiers-Charity-Logo

Contribution to the English Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

 

Sam Neil
Jack Hearn
Gavin Smith

 

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

Phoenix Heroes
Everton in the community
Burnley Football Club in the Community
Robert Jones And Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
We are with you
Tough Enough To Care
Anxious Minds

 

Leavers to Leaders Award  – Sponsored by BNI 

Kieron Yeoman
Kevin Jones
Johanna Hooper
Mark Thomas

 


Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Hugh James

Neil Jurd
Kieron Yeoman
Henry Waterfield
Tom Newey

 

Employer of the Year- Sponsored by Logistics and Security

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
With You With Me
FM Conway
RB Safety Consultants Ltd

Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Veteran Trees 

imployable
Veterans In Crisis Community Interest Company
Stoic Events
Challenge Coins UK Ltd
RB Safety Consultants Ltd

 

Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by Pathfinder International Magazine

John Scivier
Cherie Thurston
BARRY COASE
Dawn Civill-Williams
Colin Gaylor
steven Mcdonald
Gina Allsop

Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by FDM

John Scivier
Jack Hearn
Anthony Malone
Derek Cole

Reservist of the Year Award –  Sponsored by Company X Consulting

Chris Margett
Peter Kelly
Carl Meyer

 

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 National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on Friday 19th August. 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 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 and the amazing opportunity for a guided tour of the historic HMS Victory, Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson’s Ship.  You will be able to explore every nook and cranny of HMS Victory, from The Great Cabin, where battle plans were drawn up, right through to the lower gun deck where you will catch a glimpse of what it was like to live and fight under Nelson.

All our Shortlisted Finalists will have the opportunity to purchase tickets between 1st August and 14th August.

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.

Veterans Awards CIC become Gold ERS award holders!!

We are delighted to announce that Veterans Awards CIC have been recognised for our outstanding support of the Armed Forces Community by being awarded an Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award from the MOD and Defence Relationship Management.

Representing the highest badge of honour, the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award identifies organisations that employ & support those who serve, veterans & their families.

We will as an organisation keep promoting the positives from those that support our Military Veteran community across the UK including organisations and individuals who will act as role models for future service leavers.

Minister for Defence People Leo Docherty said:

“Regardless of size, location or sector, employing members of the Armed Forces community is good for businesses.”

“These awards recognise the outstanding support for our Armed Forces from employers across the UK and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one.”

#GoldERS22 #veteransawards #veterans #military

Welcome to our Winners at this years Welsh Veterans Awards 2022!!

Welsh Veterans Awards Logo

Massive thanks to everyone who attended this year’s Welsh Veterans Awards hosted by Andrea Byrne and held at the Village Hotel and Leisure Club Cardiff on the 30th June 2022. The Awards were sponsored by GHN Property and Developments and in Support of the ABF The Soldiers’ Charity Wales 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 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 Deputy Minister Hannah Blythyn MS, Brigadier Jock Fraser MBE, Brigadier Andrew Dawes CBE and Welsh Veterans Commissioner Col James Phillips during the evening. A special thanks also has to go to the The Regimental Band & Corps of Drums of The Royal Welsh – Royal Navy Reserves, Harry and Grace from MPCT and the Welsh Guards who were there supporting in their famous red Tunics.

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 Lt Col Anthony Davies OBE receive the Lifetime Achievement Award to a standing ovation, The Team from Woodys Lodge picked up four awards, two Golds, one Silver and a Bronze for the amazing work they do within the community.  Monmouthshire Council become our Employer of the year!  The Fantastic Lisa Rawlings became our Role Model of the Year Winner and also the Welsh Veterans Awards Champion for 2022!

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 :

ABF-The-Soldiers-Charity-Logo

Veterans Awards Champion:  Lisa Rawlings  

 

Role Model of the Year- Sponsored by Royal Educare
Winner  – Lisa Rawlings
Silver – Stephen Owen
Bronze – Dave Dewar
.
Inspiration of the Year Award – Sponsored by Porters Estate Agents 
Winner  – Dan Stanley
Silver – Mark Morgan
Bronze –   Mark Hodgkinson
The Community Award – Sponsored by Vigilance
Winner  – Katherine Fisher
Silver –  Paul Bromwell
Bronze –  James Hunt
.
Contribution to the Welsh Fitness Industry and Society – Sponsored by Print Inc Embroidery and Print 
Winner  – Gavin Bilton
Silver – Joe Williams
Bronze – Christopher Gouldsmith
.
Leavers to Leaders Award
Winner  – Emma Eynon
Silver –  John Evans
Bronze – Chris Kerr
.
Entrepreneur of the Year- Sponsored by Pinnacle Complete Office Solutions 
Winner  -Kelly Farr
Silver –  Michael Smith
Bronze – Hywel Baker
.
Employer of the Year- Sponsored by AB Glass 
Winner  – Monmouthshire County Council
Silver – Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Bronze – Butterfly Data
.
Veteran Owned Business  of the Year- Sponsored by Educ8
Winner  – YourNorth
Silver – Hard Target Airsoft
Bronze – Fantom Factory Ltd
.
Volunteer of the Year –  Sponsored by Pathfinder Magazine
Winner  – David Watkins
Silver – Sarah Hattle
Bronze – Penny Jenkins
.
Reservist of the Year – Sponsored by GHN  Property and Developments 
Winner  – Karen Spencer
Silver – Ian Darlington
Bronze – Ioan Evans
.
Health and Well-being Award –  Sponsored by Bridgend Audi Sinclair 
Winner  – Woodys Lodge
Silver – Better Men UK
Bronze – YourNorth
.
Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Hugh James
Winner  – Anthony Davies OBE
Silver – Peter Webber
Bronze – Louise Crawford

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 2022

Alan Brayley  VR DL, Deputy Lord Lieutenant for West Glamorgan.

Alan Brayley Started his career at 16 as an apprentice glass processor at a large Glass processing works. Moving on to take a managerial role.

Alan has worked from the shop floor through to senior management gaining knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes and the wider business aspects.

In 1991, Alan started his own company manufacturing hermetically sealed double glazed glass units. Following this, he expanded the business and started manufacturing and installing commercial and domestic aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and other related products and services. Building it into a multimillion-pound turnover business.

Living in Southwest Wales, Alan is acknowledged as one of the region’s leading businessmen. He was appointed Chair of the Swansea West Business Park forum and whilst President of the Swansea Bay Business Club, he was instrumental in growing it to become the largest networking Business club in the region. Alan remains as a board member.

He has won numerous business awards and has also been recognised for his personal business achievements.

He is a Deputy Lord Lieutenant for West Glamorgan and is a High Sherriff in Nomination for 2024 / 2025.

Swansea University recently awarded him affiliate status in recognition of his significant contribution to the University. He sits on the Bank of England’s West Wales Business Panel, works as a business mentor with Careers Wales, working with primary and secondary schools to enhance entrepreneurial and business skills, was elected Chair of Governors at a local primary school and is currently a Governor at a local Secondary school.

Alan is a veteran reservist having served 20 years as an infantry soldier and spends much of his time supporting other veterans and raising money for ABF The Soldiers Charity.

 

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.

“I have not sat on this judging panel before but I feel honoured to have been selected to represent the Educ8 Group.  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”

 

 

 Leah (Compliance & HR Assistant) Royal Educare 

Compliance and HR administrator at Royal Educare, I have heard on so many occasions about the Veteran awards that we have been attending over the years and was absolutely thrilled to invited to join the judging panel this year. Having had former Veterans in my own family I recognise the struggles they can face so to hear the inspiring and positive stories of the achievements of veterans over the years I’m very excited to recognise their hard work.

 

Peter Davies  – Regional Director Wales, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

His role encompasses inter alia; representing the Charity in Wales; engaging a wide range of audiences both military and civilian on the work of the Charity to encourage support to regional fundraising, continual development of our volunteer fundraising, initiating and delivery of regional fundraising events.

 

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the Army’s national charity and provides support to soldiers, former soldiers, and their families, for life – whatever the need is. It supports the Army family of all generations, not just those affected by recent conflict. Working in support of corps and regimental benevolent charities, The Soldiers’ Charity relies heavily on community fundraisers, volunteers and benefactors to ensure that those in need get the assistance they deserve.

Peter comes from a family with a long Army tradition (fifth generation), and, as a long-serving former British soldier and a proud Welshman, he fully appreciates the work of the Welsh Veterans Awards and whose aims are very close to his heart. Peter was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) in the 2016 Queen’s Birthday Honours military list, prior to ending his 23 years regular service in the British Army finishing his time in the British Army as a Warrant Officer Class One in the Royal Logistics Corps. Married to Nicola for 25 years with two children, Keiran (25) and Charley (16).

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 Welsh Veterans Awards towards the end of this month.

 Annie Martin, Group Marketing Manager at Pinnacle Complete Office Solutions

 Having worked at Pinnacle for over 5 years, I am honoured to of had the opportunity to be involved with many serving and ex-Military personnel, from charity events, training and being awarded both the Bronze and Silver Covenant status. Having attended the Veterans Awards and listened to the fantastic achievements of our former Military, I am privileged to form part of this year’s upcoming judging panel and look forward to hearing the fantastic stories and accomplishments of those involved.

 

Samuel T Ready, Entrepreneur, Director and Author:

 

Samuel T. Reddy is passionate about seeing the best in leaders. He is a visionary global leader, leadership transition strategist, author, researcher and an impact entrepreneur based in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Samuel is a multi award winning member of the British Armed Forces, an International Bestselling author of the book Leavers To Leaders, which has reached an Amazon #1 bestseller in the UK, USA, Australia and Canada.
He is the CEO of TriAtis Global Leadership, a UK based international training and development organisation specialising in career & leadership transition in 3 continents to keep Leaders relevant, rigorous and responsive. Samuel has taken part in various Shows and is a natural in front of the camera both as a guest and a host. One particular show recorded at University of Southampton Business School is the LOS Cast – a series of talks with business leaders on change, strategy and leadership. As an Inspirational Keynote Speaker he regularly speaks on the ‘3 L.O.S of Leadership’ & the ‘Leaders Operating System’. Samuel is also the co-founder of TriPotential CIC, a social enterprise set up to help the UK government have more cognitive diversity in the military & uniformed services. As a citizen of two commonwealth countries, Samuel believes strongly in sustainable leadership, and has aligned all his books & programmes to improve youth literacy in disadvantaged countries. He is the patron of ‘The Sugarcane Boy‘ Book Club to help children have a book to read at home.

 

 

Barry John MBE. The VC Gallery CEO and Graffiti artist.

I am the founder of the Mental heath charity The VC Gallery situated in Pembrokeshire.

As a former winner of the Welsh Veterans Awards I am very proud to be on the judging panel for this years event. The Veterans awards shows our nation that veterans go on to do some amazing things in all aspects of trade, commerce and charitable endeavours that bring so much back to the Armed forces community in Wales.

I served for 24 years in the Royal Regiment of Wales and later in the Royal Welsh, whilst serving, I studied Mental health in the Military and was also a war artist that had exhibitions around Europe and Asia. After leaving the Forces I set up a charity looking at art engagement and breaking isolation in the community that has gone on to become a big project in West Wales.

As a big supporter of the Welsh Veterans Awards I am looking forward seeing some of the amazing initiatives active and making a difference in Wales.

 

 

Colonel David Hammond – Head of engagement RFCA Wales

David is a former regular Army Commanding Officer.

Since leaving the Army in 2007 he has operated at board level in the overseas security and sustainable energy sectors, where amongst other things, he has raised funding for a broad portfolio of overseas energy-related projects, as well as overseeing Intellectual Property Rights development programmes and business start-ups.  Currently, in the UK he is the head of engagement for the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’  Association for Wales.

Away from work he has been actively involved within the voluntary sector. He was Commandant of the Dyfed and Glamorgan Army Cadet Force from 2012-2015 and Colonel Cadets for Wales from 2015 to 2019. He is the chair of trustees for the veterans charity Valley Veterans, based in the Rhondda; is chair of the business advisory group to the Council for Wales of Voluntary Youth Services (CWVYS); is Chair of the Army Cadets Charitable Trust (ACCT) Cymru/Wales, and is a trustee of the Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust (MSTC).

 

 

Christopher Jenkins – General Manager for Bridgend Audi, part of the Sinclair Group

I am the General Manager for Bridgend Audi, part of the Sinclair Group. I have been at Bridgend Audi for some 12 years now having previously working in the banking sector. I have three children and live in Cowbridge.

We service, maintain and retail all tyres of Audi’s from the Audi A1 to the new all electric Audi Etron GTRS. Bridgend Audi was recognised as the Number 1 Approved Centre in the UK in 2021 and consistently comes in the top 10 for the industry recognised Q Power. We take extreme pride in our position within the community and see supporting the Veteran’s Awards as a great union for us.

I was first involved with the Veterans Awards in 2020 have been truly inspired by the outstanding efforts and contributions of everyone involved. To see some of the endeavours and accomplishments of the ex-military is remarkable. I am really excited to be participating in the judging panel this year and meeting and learning about the 2022 finalists.

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.