National BAME Health and Care Awards joint winners

We are thrilled to announce two winners from NHS England at the National BAME Health and Care Awards 2025 – James Freed, Deputy Director of the NHS Digital Academy and Joan Pons Laplana, NHS Choices College Area Manager who won Joint Ally of the Year.

James Freed, Deputy Director of the Digital Academy deservedly received recognition for his tireless support and commitment to furthering the equality, diversity and inclusion cause across health and care.

His commitment to shaping the future of the sector, breaking down barriers and inspiring many to follow in his footsteps.

This award is a fitting tribute to his leadership, dedication and impact across the system.

James said: "I can’t express how happy, honoured, and, well surprised I am.

"Addressing inequalities that inhibit some very worthy people from reaching leadership positions in the digital and data community in the NHS is something that we at the NHS Digital Academy take very seriously.

"We do this, not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because digital services can reach more people than ever before, and if we fail to have diverse leadership, we create services that risk failing a significant part of our population in ever greater numbers.

"I need to thank my team, but also Shera Chok and the Shuri Network for being tremendous visionaries. What they do with the Shuri Fellowship in particular is mind-blowing and it is an honour to continue to work with you and support you in your mission."

Shera said: "On behalf of the Shuri Network, I am so delighted that James' outstanding contribution to building inclusion and representation in digital leadership has been recognised at the National BAME Health and Care Awards.

"James has championed the Network since our launch in 2019, and thanks to his support, the Network has created new opportunities for hundreds of women to progress and empowered them to use technology and data to improve patient care, productivity and overcome barriers.

"Allies can have a powerful effect, summarised by this description from a Shuri Digital Fellow about her experience"

"A journey that has empowered me in more ways than I could ever imagine. From navigating the complexities of digital transformation in healthcare to finding my voice as a leader. The experience has been about People, Purpose and Representation. Here’s to continuing this work with renewed focus, deeper confidence and a growing network of change makers. The journey doesn’t end here - it’s only just the beginning."

Joan Pons Laplana, NHS Choices College Area Manager at NHS England joint winner of Ally of the Year used his lived experience as a platform for authenticity, building initiatives that support both patients and colleagues. They confronted stigma head-on, educating peers and sparking cultural change with honesty and resilience. The judges commended their creativity, courage and tireless advocacy in improving professional pathways and inclusive practice.

Congratulations to both James and Joan!