Digital Health chief executive Jon Hoeksma has won ‘Ally of the Year’ at the National B.A.M.E Health & Care Awards 2024.
The fifth annual awards ceremony took place at the Royal Institute of British Architects in London on 26 September 2024.
Launched in 2019, the awards recognise black, Asian and ethnic minority (B.A.M.E.) talent and innovation in health and care, and staff who show ambition and vision in securing access and service improvements for B.A.M.E. communities.
Hoeksma was nominated for publicly condemning reported racist and misogynistic remarks made by Frank Hester, chief executive of health software firm TPP in March 2024 about Labour MP Diane Abbott.
Digital Health also supports the Shuri Network, for women from minority ethnic groups working in digital health, and provided a bursary to enable 20 of its members to attend Summer Schools 2024, which took place on 18-19 July at Durham University.
Presenting the award, the judges said: “In the face of online abuse and threats against black women in public life, this individual has stood firm, promoting women of colour in tech and using their platform to create opportunities.
“A proactive ally, they have taken bold actions, including publicly denouncing misogynistic and racist behaviour.
“Their consistent, visible leadership and dedication to diversity, inclusion, and respect within the digital health sector make them a deserving winner of this category.”
Commenting on the award, Hoeksma said: “I’m honoured to have been recognised as ‘Ally of the Year’, highlighting not only my work but the efforts of our entire team in supporting people of all backgrounds to build meaningful careers in tech.
“We are proud to actively champion initiatives such as the Equity Charter and the Shuri Network, which work to combat racism and promote equality in the health tech space.
“Racist and misogynistic behaviour has no place in our industry and this award reflects Digital Health’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and standing against all forms of discrimination.”
Digital Health is a signatory to the Equity Charter, which aims to set out guiding principles to prevent discrimination in the health tech sector.
To find out more you can listen to the Digital Health Unplugged podcast: Taking a stand against racism.
