We’re thrilled to announce our founder & director, Arit Eminue has been named as a finalist in this year’s Forward Ladies National Awards 2017 and the PRECIOUS Awards.

Her passion and determination to make DiVA Apprenticeships succeed has paid off as Arit has been shortlisted in the London and the South regional heat of the Forward Ladies National Awards 2017 in the SME Emerging category, which celebrates entrepreneurial female business leaders.

In addition, Arit has been nominated for the 11th annual PRECIOUS Awards, which celebrates the professional achievements of women of colour in the UK, in the Business of the Year category.  The awards have received a number of high profile endorsements including Prime Minister Theresa May who said: “These awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the substantial contribution of Black and Asian female entrepreneurs.”

Speaking about the news, dynamic DiVA, Arit said how humbled she is to have been selected as a finalist for these prestigious awards.

She said: “I was surprised and excited when I discovered I was a finalist in both awards. I have no idea who nominated me but want to say a huge thank you. We’re facing many changes in the apprenticeship sector, but change excites me. We’ve been very nimble and have embraced a new way of working which has boosted our success. It is humbling to know that someone else has recognised you making a positive contribution.”

Arit is looking forward to attending both awards ceremonies, with the Forward Ladies National Awards 2017 glittering regional final at the Hilton, London Tower Bridge on September 15th and the PRECIOUS Awards event taking place at Waldorf Hotel on September 21st.

DiVA’s director added: “I learned a long time ago to enjoy moments like these, and not dismiss them as nothing, so I can’t wait to experience, not one but two evenings of glitz, glamour and celebrations.”

“I would like to thank our fabulous clients and my amazing team because, without them, DiVA Apprenticeships wouldn’t be where it is today.”

Arit founded DiVA out of a passion to work in partnership with employers to ensure people from diverse backgrounds were given opportunities that they might otherwise not have had access to.

Through Government backed Apprenticeships, DiVA has supported over 500 people into creative jobs with employers including All3 Media, Universal Music, UK Music, Southbank Centre, Sadlers Wells, Domino Records, 400 Company, Crossrail, the CBI, CODA and more. DiVA was the first independent training provider in London to be awarded the Creative Skillset Tick in recognition of the outstanding training they provide. Over 95% of DiVA Apprentices’ secure employment with their host employer post apprenticeship.

Arit can be contacted directly on 0203 189 1784.