The shortlist for the 2025 LGBTQ+ Defence Awards has been officially revealed today, launching the latest edition of the UK’s leading programme
celebrating inclusion across the Armed Forces, civil service and wider defence industry.
This year’s finalists span all branches of the military, government and businesses, showcasing the remarkable talent and leadership of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies who are helping to drive forward a more inclusive, capable and representative defence community.
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The Awards were founded in the wake of the UK Government’s formal apology in 2023 to LGBTQ+ military veterans affected by the pre-2000 service ban. Born out of a call for reparations and recognition, the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards have since grown into the largest and most visible celebration globally of LGBTQ+ contributions to UK Defence.
As global headlines remind us of the fragility of progress, 2025 marks a pivotal year for LGBTQ+ visibility and advocacy. In this context, the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards, of which BFBS is media partner, have become more than a celebration – they are a critical platform to affirm the values of fairness, respect and equality at the heart of British defence today.
Drawing hundreds of nominations each year, the Awards recognise both high-profile change makers and everyday achievers whose ability to be themselves in the workplace has enabled them to thrive and contribute fully to the defence and security of the UK.
Peter Gibson Chief Executive of Fighting With Pride, official charity partner of the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards, said: “The LGBTQ+ Defence Awards are an incredible opportunity to showcase and celebrate the exceptional talent and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals and teams in the defence industry, and the value gained by inclusive organisations.
“Fighting With Pride are delighted to be partnering with this prestigious event once again. Particularly in the 25th Anniversary year since the lifting of the Ban, we are proud to see the UK now leading the way with a high-profile platform which recognises LGBTQ+ people in the
defence community and demonstrates that strength is truly delivered through diversity.
“Our sincerest congratulations go to all shortlisted finalists and indeed all who were nominated, and our thanks go out to the amazing people who submitted nominations, helping to recognise those that inspire diversity, inclusion and equity in defence.”
The 2025 ceremony will take place on 23 September in the iconic Grand Hall at the Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden, London. Hosted by comedian and broadcaster Zoe Lyons, the evening will feature live entertainment and inspiring guest speakers, as well as
the highly anticipated award presentation.
Known for its fun, unique and welcoming atmosphere, the award ceremony brings together senior military leaders, business executives, civil servants and politicians, reinforcing the vital link between inclusion and operational effectiveness in defence.
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The Awards are proudly sponsored by leading employers including BAE Systems, Thales, Amazon, Babcock, Maersk, MBDA and PA Consulting. Winners are selected by an independent judging panel featuring leaders from the Ministry of Defence, British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, DE&S, Leonardo, Imperial College London and the Scottish Prison Service.
Amanda Wood, Group Social Sustainability Director at BAE Systems, headline sponsor of the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards, said: “These awards recognise real focus in our sector to create workplaces where everyone feels valued and can bring their whole self to work. At BAE Systems we are working hard to build an inclusive culture that allows all employees to perform at their best, enabling our business to innovate, to grow and to thrive. I am incredibly proud of our 3000-strong LBGTQ+ employee resource group, OutLink UK: their work, together with many others across the business and the insight they bring is vital in
helping us maintain momentum on this important company journey.”
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Notes to Editors:
About the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards
LGBTQ+ inclusive workplaces are not just right for equality, but imperative for Defence
organisations to thrive in the future. The lack of visible LGBTQ+ role models in defence,
aerospace and security is what drives the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards to present an annual
showcase of the talents and achievements of this vibrant community in industries so
crucial to UK security and prosperity. The flagship, inspirational event in London brings
together the broad spectrum of UK Defence to celebrate and promote the value of LGBTQ+
inclusion.
https://www.thelgbtawards.com
About Fighting With Pride
Fighting With Pride is the LGBTQ+ military charity, created on the 20th anniversary of the
complete lifting of the ban on LGBTQ+ service. The charity supports LGBTQ+ veterans,
serving personnel and their families, particularly those who were affected by the ‘gay ban’
which saw thousands of LGBTQ+ service personnel removed or forced from service and
abandoned, after serving with pride. Fighting With Pride is working with veteran
supporting organisations to build capacity for LGBTQ+ veteran support, to recognise their
service and help resolve the challenges they face in their lives beyond military service.
https://www.fightingwithpride.org.uk
