The city came alive last night at the 9th Birmingham Awards, hosted at the stunning Eastside Rooms. The awards honoured Birmingham’s outstanding individuals, businesses, and organisations, shining a spotlight on those who make the city a vibrant and inspiring place to live and work. PJ Ellis, crowned Brummie of the Year in 2018 and adored for his dynamic charm, took to the stage as host, filling the evening with his infectious energy and playful banter.
A B Events signature experience, the Birmingham Awards dazzled with celebrations, extraordinary entertainment, and heartfelt tributes to the people who embody Birmingham’s spirit. Memorable performances from powerhouse vocalist Namywa, the captivating Undercover Artists, the talented Eloquent Dance Academy, and the lively house band Keep Off the Brass kept the energy soaring throughout the evening.
In line with tradition, the awards supported LoveBrum, a charity dedicated to making Birmingham better for all. LoveBrum has been part of the Birmingham Awards journey from the very start, reinforcing the awards’ commitment to the community.
The night’s achievements wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Special thanks go to our Diamond Sponsor, Pathway Group, alongside supporting sponsors South & City College Birmingham, Young Leaders Club, Doug Wright T/A McDonald’s, Hollywood Monster, Blend Creative Minds, B Events Media, and Bridgin’ The Gap. Their contributions ensured an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating Birmingham’s finest.
Among the night’s many unforgettable moments, one was especially heartwarming: Edwin Ladd’s surprise proposal to Nitisha Patel brought tears and cheers from the audience, adding a truly magical touch to the celebration.
A huge round of applause goes to the finalists and winners who were honoured, each of whom continues to make Birmingham proud. Some of the most anticipated awards of the evening went to remarkable individuals who have made a lasting impact on Birmingham. The Brummie of the Year Awards honoured Paul Faulkner and Cllr Sharon Thompson, both celebrated for their dedication to enriching the city and supporting its communities. The Special Recognition Award was presented to Jeremy Dale, recognising his exceptional contributions and inspiring leadership and Jim Simpson, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, acknowledging his decades-long influence in the music industry and his work with Big Bear Music, which has been instrumental in shaping Birmingham’s cultural landscape.
Founders Anita Chumber and Ifraz Ahmed of B Events congratulate all participants and winners, sharing their gratitude for everyone who contributes to Birmingham’s growth and vibrancy. The excitement is already building for the 10th anniversary of the Birmingham Awards in 2025, which promises to be an epic celebration.
Anita Chumber said: “Every year, the Birmingham Awards shine a light on the incredible talent, drive, and passion within our city. We’re honoured to celebrate these individuals and organisations that make Birmingham truly unique and vibrant. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists – your dedication is what keeps our city thriving!”
Ifraz Ahmed said: “It’s a privilege to bring together such inspiring people who make Birmingham better every day. The energy tonight has been incredible, and we’re so grateful to our sponsors, partners, and everyone who believes in this vision. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead and an even bigger 10th anniversary next year!”
Here’s the full list of winners who made this year unforgettable:
Full List of Winners:
– Arts & Culture Award – Capsule
– Bar/Pub of the Year – F1 Arcade Birmingham
– Charity of the Year – Arrive Alive
– Independent Retailer of the Year – Butcher’s Block Bromsgrove
– Restaurant of the Year – The Mayan
– Young Achiever of the Year – Subhan Shan
– Employee of the Year – Zoe Dempsey – Burns & McDonnell
– Contribution to Education Award of the Year – The Central School of Makeup
– Special Recognition – Jeremy Dale
– Social Enterprise of the Year – Together Minds
– Sporting Initiative of the Year – Crescent Archers
– Start-Up Business of the Year – Go Talking Ways
– Small Business of the Year – Nylah’s Naturals
– Businesswoman of the Year – Amy Bird – Countrywide Metals
– Community Champion of the Year – Syed Muhammad Faisal Sami – Faizan Global Relief Foundation
– Lifetime Achievement – Jim Simpson, Big Bear Music/Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival
– Brummie of the Year (Male) – Paul Faulkner
– Brummie of the Year (Female) – Sharon Thompson
– Businessman of the Year – Paul Campbell – Richborough
– Business of the Year – The Student Energy Group
– Entrepreneur of the Year – Jason Chandler – Burns & McDonnell
– Networker of the Year – Sophie Paoloni
The Birmingham Awards family extends its warmest congratulations to all finalists and winners. Here’s to another year of celebrating Birmingham’s finest – we can’t wait to welcome everyone back for next year’s milestone 10th anniversary.
See all the Official pics here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/socialframes/albums/72177720321813061
