The BAME Apprenticeship Awards evolved from the Asian Apprenticeship Awards, which launched in 2016. It was set up as a direct result of the government target to increase the diversity of apprenticeships by 20% by 2020. These awards showcase talent and diversity within BAME communities through the celebration of those working hard to overcome adversity to achieve their goals through apprenticeships.
Jonathan Foot, Compass’s head of apprenticeships and early careers said: “It’s amazing to have made the finals in both categories we entered. We’re very proud of our apprenticeship programme at Compass Group and we offer a clear career progression through our apprenticeship roadmaps. This is superb recognition and it means a great deal to us as a business.”
Compass is a finalist in the Large Employer of the Year category, which acknowledges organisations for their contribution in assisting their apprentices along their journey. One of which, is Compass shining star and bronze winner at the 2019 Compass Apprentice Chef of the Year, Natasha Smith, who has been shortlisted for BAME Apprentice of the Year.
Smith is an apprentice commis chef at Levy, Compass’s sport, leisure and hospitality catering brand, and her managers say she ‘consistently demonstrates commitment, professionalism, passion and dedication in her quest to become an outstanding chef’.
Compass’s newly appointed head of diversity and inclusion Rak Kalidas said of the nominations: “It’s an honour simply to be shortlisted for the BAME Apprenticeship Awards, as it means we’ve been recognised for our efforts to create a workforce which represents the rich diversity of the customers and clients we serve, as well as society as a whole.
“We have created a Cultural Diversity Employee Network and have set up regular employee listening groups, to ensure our Diversity and Inclusion strategy is in line with our people and addresses the problems which they face. We can’t wait for the ceremony in November and wish all the nominees the best of luck.”