Miranda Brawn, equality commissioner for Lambeth and patron of the Black Cultural Archives in Brixton, notched up another honour in recognition of her work to make the workplace more diverse and inclusive. She was awarded a Doctor of Letters at the University of Brighton in July and is the youngest person ever to be nominated.
The honour is in recognition of her contribution to business, law, diversity and philanthropy across the globe.
Brawn, founder and CEO of the Miranda Brawn Diversity Leadership Foundation said: ” We must continue to try to find ways that the next generation can go on to succeed, fulfilling their true potential.” Born and raised in London, Brawn has had a successful career across finance, business and law. She founded the diversity leadership lecture aimed at young BAME future leaders which has won a ‘Points of Light’ Award from Prime Minister Theresa May.
The university said: “She has used her influence and reach as a force for good in the world, with a constant focus on the importance of diverse opportunities and the virtues of serving others. It is not an overstatement to describe Miranda and her organisation that she has founded and led so successfully a beacon of hope for the next generation and diversity, a passionate crusader for people’s rights to diversity and equality, plus a global force for good.”
In a speech made during the ceremony to business school graduates, she advised students to follow their dreams to find their perfect career. “Work hard, take risks, focus, network, exercise persistence, give back and success will follow!” Brawn also said: “I consider today to be a defining milestone in my life and am delighted to receive my honorary doctorate for my positive contribution to society over the years.”
Brawn joins a line-up of previous honorary doctorates that includes Judge Michael Kennedy QC, creator of Pop Idol Simon Fuller and Sarah Brown (global health and education campaigner and wife of former Prime Minister Gordon Brown).
For the second year in a row, the Financial Times listed Miranda Brawn as one of the top most influential global BAME business executives in May 2017. in April this year she was featured in the Metro newspaper Top 10 UK’s females who are changing Britain.
