Countdown for the National Diversity Awards begins as the ceremony returns to the city for a second year running.

Merseyside Charities and Role Models will join nominees from across the nation at the breathtaking Anglican Cathedral on September 16th 2016. The Best of British Diversity will gather in Liverpool to celebrate the outstanding achievements of those who have demonstrated their devotion to enhancing equality, diversity and inclusion in today’s society.

Over 20,000 nominations and votes have been received so far, paying tribute to grass root communities across the UK.

ITV News presenter Charlene White and actor Richard Blackwood will join forces to host the ‘Golden Globes’ of the diversity world.

Hosting the awards for the first time, EastEnders star Richard Blackwood expressed his delight, stating:

“I’m very honoured to be a host alongside Charlene White for the awards this year! I believe it is very important to recognise and acknowledge the achievements of Britain’s diverse communities within the mainstream arena, and these awards are a large platform for this!”

Charlene White added:

“I’m excited to once again host the National Diversity Awards. Having Richard Blackwood as my co-host will be a joy! I’m passionate about equality, diversity and inclusion – and the NDA’s are about celebrating and high-fiving those who share that passion. I can’t wait!”

The prestigious black tie event is definitely one to mark down on your calendar and provides recognition for excellence regardless of race, faith, religion, gender, identity, sexual orientation, age, disability and culture.

Microsoft are just one of the brands supporting a skyfall of diverse talent alongside adidas Group, Financial Ombudsman Service, Kier, PwC, MI5, GCHQ, MI6, ThoughtWorks, Direct Line Group, Transport for London, ITV, The Open University, The Voice Newspaper & Able Magazine.

Designed to highlight the country’s most inspirational and selfless people, the NDA’s are supported by the likes of Stephen Fry, Lenny Henry and Katie Piper.

The diverse line up of award presenters include Union J member Jaymi Hensley, Bridget Jones’s Diary star Sally Phillips, and Hollyoaks’ first transgender actress Annie Wallace.

The audience can also expect appearances from Kidulthood favourite Femi Oyeniran, Coronation Street star Cherylee Houston, ITV weatherman Alex Beresford, Liverpool’s very own Philip Olivier, and British Actress Letitia Hector.

Paul Sesay, Founder and CEO of the National Diversity Awards, said:

“I am thrilled to be holding the 5th annual National Diversity Awards in Liverpool to celebrate the vast array of positive role models and community organisations across the nation. I want to wish all of our nominees the best of luck, the difference you’re making to the lives of many is outstanding, and I cannot thank you enough for your devotion, drive and passion for advancing the many causes of diversity.”

Potential winners:

Merseyside charities Sefton Golden Days and Tomorrow’s Women Wirral are amongst the selection of sensational organisations shortlisted for this year’s awards.

The Liverpool Signing Choir, who performed both Olympic and Paralympic games, have been shortlisted for The Community Organisation Award for Disability.

The visual, citywide, inclusive choir, began as an after school club in Knotty Ash Primary School to promote and develop social inclusion between deaf and hearing pupils. The choir’s numbers have since swelled and in 2013 they were honoured with The Queens Award for Voluntary Services.

The Liverpool Signing Choir will perform at Friday’s ceremony alongside a line up of Liverpool talent including Samba Drumming band Batala Mersey.

MiC LOWRY, described by BBC1XTRA as the ‘next big thing to come out of the UK’ will also showcase their music to the nationwide audience. The 5 piece band will be touring with Justin Bieber from September 29th and are set to release their brand new single on the same day as the awards.

Other nominees from the Merseyside area include Northern Power Women, Liverpool Community Spirit, Tomorrow’s Women Wirral, Age UK Wirral, Emma Baldy, Sylvia Forchap-Likambi and Irene Afful.

Whether Merseyside take home a gong or not, the city is sure to embrace the diverse spirit heading up north in what is sure to be a spectacular celebration of unity!