Driving Social Mobility: Shifting Mindsets on Social Mobility Awareness Day

Join us for a groundbreaking event at Autotrader, Manchester, a collaboration between The National Diversity Awards, Inclusive Companies, and Autotrader, bringing together businesses and communities to drive real change on Social Mobility Awareness Day 2025 #ShiftingMindsets.  

Date: Thursday 12th June | 09.30 – 13.00
Venue: Autotrader, 1 Tony Wilson Pl, Manchester, M15 4FN 

Why Social Mobility Matters 

Social mobility remains one of the biggest challenges in the UK, with talent often restricted by postcode, background, or lack of access to networks and opportunities. Many organisations are now taking proactive steps to address these barriers, creating more equitable hiring practices, mentorship programs, and sustainable career-building opportunities to ensure that individuals from all backgrounds have access to meaningful employment. 

This event is a must-attend for all organisations committed to workplace diversity, equitable hiring, and real social impact. It is an opportunity for businesses to engage with diverse communities and explore how they can actively contribute to breaking down employment barriers, fostering inclusive hiring practices, and creating sustainable opportunities for career progression. It’s about turning conversations into action and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. 

What to Expect: 

• Panel Discussions with Industry Leaders – Hear from DEI professionals, community leaders and inspirational speakers, sharing best practices for inclusive hiring, outreach, and partnership-building. 

• Networking Opportunities – Connect with other forward-thinking organisations and diverse communities to establish meaningful collaborations. 

• Workshops – participate in break out sessions to hear what other employers are doing in this space and discuss challenges and solutions.  

• Commitment to Action – Discover how businesses are implementing strategies to level the playing field, how you can be part of the movement, and learn about the new Elevate 1000 Initiative.  

This event is not just a conversation—it’s a call to action. We invite businesses, charities, grassroots organisations, and professionals to come together and commit to building bridges that create equitable opportunities for all. 

Be part of the movement. Join us, connect, collaborate, and take the first step in creating a more inclusive and accessible future for all. 

AGENDA

09.30 – 09.45
Delegate Arrival & Registration  

09.45 – 10.00
Paul Sesay | Founder & CEO | Inclusive Companies & Elevate 1000 & Sarah Brooks Pearce | Head of Early Careers/Emerging Talent and Social Mobility Network Lead | Autotrader 

10.00 – 10.15
Joanne Anderson, Former Mayor of Liverpool, internationally-recognised advocate for equity, inclusive prosperity and social impact, Founder of Innervision  

10.15 – 11.00
Panel 

• Alison Ross MBE | Chief People & Operations Officer, Autotrader  

• Jason King, Senior Team leader, Salford Foundation

• Dr Rashada Harry | Tech Exec Leader, Technologist Speaker, Mentor, Founder of Your Future Your Ambition  

• Shane Ryan MBE | Writer, Advocate, Senior Advisor to The National Lottery Community Fund  

11.00 – 11.15
Q&A session

11.15 – 11.30
Interval 

11.30 – 12.15
Workshop   

12.15 – 13.00
Lunch