Diplomatic consultancy Grassroot Diplomat declared Baroness May Blood, Member of the House of Lords, the winner of the Social Driver Award. The Grassroot Diplomat Initiative Award honours outstanding decision-makers, who through their dedication, commitment and selfless efforts in representing civilian matters at the highest level, have been engines for change.

Lady Blood has campaigned tirelessly for the social cause of integrated education in Northern Ireland for the last 12 years. The Baroness has helped the charity to raise over £15 million by using her powers of persuasion and networks. With her help, integrated schools now number 62 and the pupil numbers are over 22,000. In her acceptance speech, Lady Blood noted that “Integrated Education is really a grassroots organisation” and it was an honour to be receiving a grassroots award.

Over 120 distinguished guests from embassies, political offices, universities and non-government organisations gathered to celebrate the achievements of outstanding diplomats and politicians representing the people’s interest at the highest level.

Host and director of Grassroot Diplomat Talyn Rahman-Figueroa described the nominees as “worthy examples for all others… committed to listening and respecting the needs of the people”. The competition was stiff with over 30 government officials shortlisted for this honour but Lady Blood was among the six diplomats and politicians winning the award. Winners were judged on the quality and outreach of their campaign, level of support within the community and results of their direct actions.

ends