We are proud to announce that Tessa Sanderson CBE has agreed to become a patron for the annual No2H8 Awards. 

Tessa ignited pride in the nation as she went onto win Gold in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles and also competed in six Olympiads. She is the first black British woman to have won an Olympic gold medal and remains an inspiration for many women and young people from Black and Minority Ethnic communities, who want to focus their energies within sports.

 Commenting on becoming a patron for the NO2H8 Awards, Tessa said:

“It is an honour to have been invited to be a patron of the No2H8 Crime Awards. As someone who experienced racism in their early career, I have always encouraged diversity within sport and other areas of life, and it is always very disheartening to hear people are still experiencing discrimination, whether that be towards their gender, race or religious beliefs. I am proud of anyone who has taken a stance against intolerance and hatred, and congratulate everyone who is nominated for one of these awards, which highlights the bravery and hard work of individuals and organisations who are doing their utmost to rid our society of prejudice. I only wish I had the courage to do so when I was younger. I am so pleased to be a patron for such a good cause and look forward to working with team on the awards.”