October 13, 2025
On 9th October, the literary world gathered in London to celebrate the 2025 Diverse Book Awards – a vibrant and vital event spotlighting inclusive storytelling across the UK and Ireland. Renaissance proudly sponsors the Malorie Blackman Impact Award, which honours authors whose work has made a lasting contribution to diversity in publishing. The 2025 recipient was the acclaimed author Sita Brahmachari, whose powerful storytelling continues to inspire readers and reshape narratives.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Abiola Bello and Helen Lewis, Co-Founders of the Diverse Book Awards, about the journey behind the awards, the importance of representation and the growing impact of inclusive literature.
From idea to institution
What began as a spark of frustration – searching for awards that truly celebrated diverse voices apart from the Jhalak Prize – quickly evolved into a movement. “We didn’t know what we were doing,” Abiola laughs, “but we knew it needed to be done.” With a shared passion for fairness, the awards were born. Today, they’re recognised as one of the UK and Ireland’s leading literary prizes.
Championing authentic representation
The awards are more than a celebration – they’re a statement. “It’s not about ticking boxes,” Helen explains. “It’s about authentic stories that reflect real experiences.” From romance to adventure, mental health to faith, the awards embrace a wide range of genres and perspectives, ensuring every reader can find themselves in a story.
Abiola adds, “We want to see books that reflect who we are in the world. That’s why we focus on UK and Ireland talent – homegrown voices that deserve to be heard.”
The power of recognition
The Malorie Blackman Impact Award, named after the legendary author herself, is a testament to legacy and influence. “To be shortlisted means you’ve already created a legacy,” Abiola says. “Even if you don’t win, being acknowledged is powerful.” Helen echoes this sentiment, calling the award “a privilege” and a way to honour authors still actively shaping the literary landscape.
What makes this award unique is its public nomination process. Readers, educators and publishing professionals submit names, sharing examples of impact and influence. “It’s fascinating to see what people consider legacy,” Abiola notes. “Sometimes we discover authors who’ve done incredible work but haven’t been celebrated enough.”
Reaching classrooms and communities
The awards don’t just live in literary circles – they’re making waves in schools and libraries. Teachers use the longlists and shortlists as trusted reading guides, helping diversify shelves and inspire young readers. The Readers’ Choice Award, open to public vote, has become a favourite among students, empowering them to champion the stories they love. The reason that award exists was because of years of demand from teachers wanting to be involved in the awards.
Abiola cites Sue Chung as one of many novelists whose careers have been positively impacted by winning a Diverse Book Award: “Since then she said it’s just given her so much confidence to write more and own her story.” While Helen adds, “We’ve seen authors gain confidence just from being longlisted. It’s not always about winning – it’s about being seen.”
Renaissance’s role in driving change
As sponsors of the Malorie Blackman Impact Award, Renaissance is proud to support initiatives that bridge the gap between recognition and readership. “Having Renaissance’s stamp of approval means a lot,” Abiola says. “It helps spread the word and encourages other companies to get involved.”
Helen adds, “Renaissance helps get these books into classrooms. That’s where real change begins.”
Looking ahead
The future of the Diverse Book Awards is bright and plans are underway to possibly expand categories. Abiola dreams of a glamorous, massive black-tie event, while Helen envisions a world where the awards are no longer needed – because true inclusion has become the norm.
Until then, the Diverse Book Awards will continue to shine a light on the stories that matter, the voices that deserve to be heard and the authors who are changing the world – one page at a time.