Sponsored by Truth, the award seeks to recognise individuals in the research, insight and data analytics sector who are making specific contributions to equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Contributions can either be within individuals’ own organisations or as part of work within their wider communities. Judges looked for ‘people who have initiated and led action to remove barriers, support change and create environments in which others – whether employees or research participants – feel a sense of belonging and safety'.

Following an open call for nominations, the judges have shortlisted the following individuals for the EDI changemaker award:

• Katya Des-Etages, senior research executive, Channel 4
• Shivonne Gates, impact and evaluation lead, Frontline
• Christina Lai, user researcher, Kainos
• Michelle Milner, insight director, the7stars
• Alex Owens, CMI vice-president and executive sponsor of proUd, Unilever’s LGBTQI+ network
• Tom Richer, executive, strategic insight, differentology and founder of The Bridge Between
• Naomi Sweeting, customer experience director, Grand Union Housing Group

Judging the award are: Shazia Ali, founder, Mint Research; Daniel Cunill, director, Bilendi-respondi; Kathryn Hall, director, True Insights; Zoe McQuillin, consultant, The Outsiders; and Mark Thorpe, director, Truth.

The winner will be announced at the MRS Excellence Awards lunch on 9 June.

More information on the finalists can be found on the MRS website.