Jonathan Bailey, T’Nia Miller and Charley Marlowe shine light on LGBT+ trailblazers at Just Like Us 2024 charity awards
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Jonathan Bailey was among celebs who honoured those who have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of LGBT+ young people at the Just Like Us Awards on Thursday 11 July.
Actor and patron of Just Like Us, the LGBT+ young people’s charity, Jonathan Bailey says: “I’m a very, very proud patron of Just Like Us… I wanted to say a huge thank you to all the nominees and to everyone who’s worked hard to improve the lives of LGBT+ young people over the past year.
“As all of us know to varying degrees, growing up LGBT+ is still unacceptably tough and there is so much work that we need to do. But Just Like Us are doing it, are doing that work, and that’s why it’s brilliant to be here tonight to support, because the work they do is vital.”
The Just Like Us Awards 2024, an annual event celebrating exceptional efforts in promoting LGBT+ inclusivity in schools and workplaces, took place on Thursday 11 July in central London.
Hosted by comedian Sophie Duker and activist Dr Ronx Ikharia, the event honoured the tireless work of teachers, mentors, and young people who have paved the way for a more inclusive society.
The Just Like Us Awards celebrates allyship and advocacy in creating safe and supportive environments for LGBT+ individuals during a year where they have seen increasing hostility.
The evening saw the recognition of inspiring individuals and groups across various categories. The winners of the Just Like Us Awards 2024 were:
- Student Ally of the Year presented by Beckett, a Just Like Us ambassador: Charlie Moules, Exmouth Community College
- Pride Group of the Year, presented by Anthony Lexa: St Joseph’s Catholic School
- LGBT+ Inclusive Teacher of the Year, presented by T’Nia Miller: Morgan Oehlschlager, Brynteg Comprehensive School
- School Diversity Week (Primary) Award, presented by Jude Guaitamacchi: Darras Hall Primary School, Ponteland, Northumberland
- School Diversity Week (Secondary) Award, presented by non-binary author Ben Pechey: Belper School and Sixth Form College, Derbyshire
- Corporate Volunteer of the Year, presented by Charley Marlowe: Jess Glazov
- Ambassador of the Year, presented by Megan Crabbe: Ashfaq Rahman
- Mentor of the Year, presented by Char Bailey: Carl Miller
Speaking on the importance of LGBT+ inclusive education, doctor, influencer and Just Like Us Awards co-host Dr Ronx Ikharia said: “As someone who has lots of interface with young people, I know it’s so important to show young people the options of existence, in terms of gender, in terms of sexuality, in terms of presentation. It’s important that young people know that they can be whatever they want to be.”
In a message to Black, LGBT+ young people, comedian and Just Like Us Awards co-host Sophie Duker said: “It is hard enough to be one thing. It is hard to Black, it is hard to be queer, it is hard to be young, it is hard to minoritised in any way and have people not listen to you.
“What I would say if you’re struggling, is to know that your family, your tribe, your people are out there. They might not be in the places that you expect, but they definitely exist.
“Those people are there, and they will greet you and they will love you no matter what. If you haven’t found them yet, keep looking, keep believing in yourself, keep going to the people you feel safe with, and you will find your tribe.”
Star of Netflix’s Sex Education Anthony Lexa said: “Just Like Us and LGBT+ inclusive education are so paramount, because right now, trans youth are being weaponised and our identities are being politicised. I think celebrating joy, and reminding individuals that their gender identity and sexual orientation are just a small part of who they are, and to love, accept and embrace themselves, is so important. LGBT+ education and organisations like Just Like Us are the way to do that.
“It feels so positive and hopeful and beautiful being here today celebrating Just Like Us and LGBT+ youth who have done such amazing work.”
Laura Mackay, Chief Executive of Just Like Us, praised the night’s festivities and lauded all the winners, stating: “The Just Like Us Awards 2024 is a phenomenal celebration of the incredible work being done to foster LGBT+ inclusivity. Each winner has shown outstanding dedication, passion, and impact in their respective roles.
“Congratulations to all the winners. Your efforts are truly inspiring and are making a significant difference in the lives of LGBT+ young people, and a huge thanks to everyone who is helping us celebrate their vital work.”
GAY TIMES was the official media partner of the Just Like Us Awards 2024, and the event was generously hosted by JP Morgan Chase & Co.
