The 2024 Hampshire Business Awards have taken place, with South Hampshire College Group attending alongside over 100 fellow finalists across sixteen distinct categories.
The event took place at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre. The awards ceremony was interspersed with a gala dinner, which was enjoyed by over 370 guests. Comedian Cally Beaton oversaw proceedings and entertained the audience. 2024 marks the second year of the Hampshire Business Awards, and this year, the addition of a silent auction enabled important fundraising for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Service, which provides vital support for the local community.
South Hampshire College Group were one of six recognised finalists in the Commitment to Education, Training and Skills category, which was won by local blacksmith business Parmenter Forge. All finalists were met with rapturous applause and a warm reception in this celebration of success across the Hampshire community.
Naomi Smith, LSIF Programme Director, attended the event on behalf of South Hampshire College Group. She commented: “Being shortlisted for the Commitment to Education, Training and Skills Award highlights our commitment to delivering impactful education at South Hampshire College Group. Though we didn’t win, we’re proud of our technical education, apprenticeships and employer-led skills provisions that drive participation in our region’s priority sectors. By putting business at the heart of our work, we empower learners to thrive and are proud of the opportunities we create for our future workforce.”
Emma Ward is the Director of Sugoi Campers, who were also a finalist in the Made in Hampshire category. She commented: “Being shortlisted in the Hampshire Business Awards is an incredible honour for Sugoi Campers and highlights the value of projects like TECH:TRUCK, which we were proud to create with South Hampshire College Group. This recognition celebrates the innovation and collaboration behind initiatives that inspire future generations and strengthen ties between education and industry. Events like these are essential for showcasing the exceptional work being done by local businesses and their impact on the community.”
Hannah Kent Colls, Founder and Director of Watermark Communications, attended the event as a guest. She commented: “It was a pleasure attending the Hampshire Business Awards as a guest of South Hampshire College Group. Awards such as these are extremely valuable for businesses, particularly those that are small, niche, or new to their market, as recognition is key to business success. It is also great to be able to celebrate these local businesses and individuals who help drive innovation and commerce both within the region and further afield.”
For a full list of winners and a recap of the evening, please visit the Hampshire Business Magazine website.
