Equity in Tech Group is thrilled to announce that our Founder and CEO, was awarded the Outstanding Achiever Award at the Community Achiever Awards 2024, hosted by Kikoi Connection in Hampshire. This recognition celebrates Cohan's dedication and impact throughout his career, from early beginnings to his transformative work today with Equity in Tech Group.

This award is especially meaningful as Hampshire holds a significant place in Cohan’s story; it’s a county where he spent much of his childhood, forming some of the earliest insights that have fuelled his lifelong commitment to community, inclusivity, and social equity.

A Story of Dual Roots: Hampshire and London

Growing up, Cohan split his time between Hampshire and London, two places that couldn’t have been more different culturally. In London, he was immersed in the city’s rich diversity, surrounded by people of all backgrounds, races, and nationalities. “In London, every street brought together a new mix of culture and confidence,” Cohan shares. Among his Jamaican family and friends of all nationalities, he saw first-hand how true inclusion looks. People celebrated their unique identities and embraced each other’s heritage. His grandmother, a central figure in their community, helped build a local church, creating a community hub that welcomed all, showcasing how a commitment to unity can bring strength to a community.

Yet, his time in Hampshire presented a different perspective. As the only Black boy in his school, on his street, and in most public spaces, Cohan learned valuable lessons about race and identity. The contrast shaped his understanding of belonging, acceptance and the power that communities wield to shape individuals. Through these dual experiences, he witnessed the undeniable importance of inclusivity. Despite the differences, one constant in both places was his family’s guiding principle: they didn’t see race, they saw people. This unwavering sense of love and unity that he was raised with has been a driving force in his journey.

Cohan receiving his award at the Community Achiever Awards 2024, an evening sponsored by Tomato Energy.

Celebrating Community and Coming from a Place of Love

On Friday evening, Cohan’s acceptance speech captured the spirit of this belief: “When you come from a place of love, you do not see race. Growing up, I had uncles and aunties of all backgrounds; all I knew was they were family.” His words resonated deeply with everyone in attendance, a powerful reminder that love and inclusivity are at the heart of community strength.

Cohan dedicated this award to his mother, Grace Powell, honouring the love and strength she instilled in him. From a young age, she demonstrated how family and community are built through compassion, resilience, and unwavering support.

Looking Ahead with Equity in Tech Group

Cohan’s journey and values form the backbone of Equity in Tech Group. This award reflects the vision that our organisation is built upon: communities thrive when everyone is welcomed, supported, and seen as equals. Equity in Tech Group remains committed to breaking down barriers in tech and fostering inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Congratulations, Cohan, on this well-deserved recognition. May this award be a beacon for others, reminding us all that by coming together from a place of love, we can achieve the change the world needs.

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