Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Changemaker of the Year – Finalists 2026
12 May 2026

Charlotte Jones

Research & Insight Officer, RNIB

Nominated for: Using her lived experience of disability to actively drive change in how research is designed and delivered.

Charlotte says: “As a Research and Insight Officer at RNIB, I use my lived experience of disability to champion inclusive research, ensuring accessibility is embedded from the start. Through projects like the Capabilities Framework and Primary Eye Care, I have led innovative approaches that empower disabled voices, improved survey and focus group accessibility, and influenced sector-wide best practice.

My work extends beyond RNIB, collaborating with organisations such as RNID and the MRS Inclusive Research Group to develop practical guidance and resources that advance inclusive and accessible research across the sector.”

James Lewis

Co-founder, The Good Side

Nominated for: Putting ED&I at the core of The Good Side and championing the powerful role of filmmaking in equitable insight delivery.

James says: “I wanted to create a company where people could bring their whole selves to the workplace, where people did not atomize themselves. My ambition went beyond creating a more inclusive workplace, I sought to embed a campaign mindset into the business, so it could be a force for a wider, social change. This included investment in purposeful clients and initiatives and projects that aligned with The Good Side’s ED &I commitment.

I managed BCORP certification; a clear statement of The Good Side’s commitment to equitability and sustainability and have advanced how The Good Side and the sector approaches insight film making. We were one of contributors who co-designed the Dignified Storytelling Principles enshrining participant rights and creating a more equitable dynamic between people in front of and behind the camera. I recently released The Good Side’s first feature length documentary Out Laws which has brought global attention to colonial roots of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.”

Building a purposeful business has meant setting strong foundations that reflect values and drive practices that champion inclusivity and belonging at every level."

Steven Lacey

Founder, The Outsiders

Nominated for: A career dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the research industry.

Steven says: “My entire career has been about ED&I in the research sector. For most of my life, I’ve been the kind of person brands and Government were not really trying to understand working class, physically disabled and neurodiverse. I founded the Outsiders specifically to do better research with seldom heard people – the majority that gets the least attention.

I have delivered impactful industry contributions, including research on marginalised groups, policy advice, high-profile EDI projects, training programmes, and thought leadership. My work has shaped policy, won awards, and fostered lasting cultural change through initiatives and advocacy, establishing me as a visible and respected leader committed to advancing research and inclusivity.

I am honoured to be considered for the Changemaker award and would use the recognition such a prestigious award would bring to help further my advocacy work.”

Rachel Ayeh-Datey

Senior Researcher, The Mix Global

Identified as one to watch for: Using lived experience to lead efforts to make both internal culture and commercial work more equitable and inclusive.

Rachel says: “I have consistently championed equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I) throughout my career. I founded the “Second Nature” research project, amplifying marginalised communities’ relationship with nature, and established initiatives such as podcasts, interactive exhibitions and events with nature institutions such as Kew Gardens to further showcase the work of collectives and the research.

At The Mix Global, I have driven inclusive recruitment and language evolution, and co-developed the Consumer Empathy Programme with PepsiCo, fostering cultural change and greater empathy in commercial teams. My work centres equity, platforms lesser-heard voices, and actively shapes a more inclusive research industry.”