The star-studded event was hosted by The L Word’s Rachel Shelley.
The inaugural DIVA Awards, sponsored by Heathrow Airport, have been hailed a huge success.
Held at London’s glamorous Cafe de Paris, people came from near and far to celebrate 250 issues of DIVA magazine and the individuals who have made it the leading voice for lesbians and bisexual women.
Famous faces including Denise Welch, Sinitta, Jennifer Saunders, Horse McDonald and many more mingled with columnists, contributors and long-time DIVA subscribers, as everyone let their inner DIVA out for the night.
DIVA Publisher Linda Riley gave a brilliant speech to the crowd, saying:
“This is the first time in 23 years that this iconic lesbian and bisexual women’s magazine has been owned by a lesbian… I’m well aware of how important DIVA is to our community and I know that Team DIVA and I will continue to flourish and serve our wonderful community. It’s amazing to be able to celebrate our 250th issue with you.”
Rachel Shelley hosted the event, presenting 15 DIVA awards to some incredible and inspirational individuals including actress Victoria Broom, footballer Lianne Sanderson and former DIVA editor Jane Czyzselska. Here’s a complete list of the winners:
Hall Of Fame: Jane Czyzselska
Corporate Ally: Pauline Lewis
Campaigner Of The Year: Alison Camps
Brand Of The Year: Netflix
Politician Of The Year: Mhairi Black
Royal Navy Sports Personality Of The Year: Lianne Sanderson
Care Fertility Rising Star Of The Year: Shura
DIVA Choice Award: Victoria Broom
Entertainment Personality Of The Year: Rose & Rosie
Author Of The Year: Sarah Waters
Broadcaster Of The Year: Jane Hill
The Agora Musician Of The Year: Saara Aalto
International Icon Of The Year: Lauren Jauregui
BNP Paribas Inspirational Role Model Of The Year: Heather Peace
Ally Of The Year: Denise Welch
After the awards ceremony, Heather Peace and Saara Aalto blew the roof off with their respective performances.
DJ’s Gok Wan and Smokin’ Jo kept us dancing until the wee small hours, and as everyone piled into taxis at the end of the night, all anyone could ask was: when’s the next one?
See you next year!?
Photography: www.talie-eigeland.co.uk
