DanceSyndrome Recognised as Inclusive Innovators at Northern Power Women Awards

The DanceSyndrome team are celebrating after winning an award at the Northern Power Women Awards on the first day of Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week!

The inclusive approach of DanceSyndrome was recognised with a nomination in the “Inclusive Innovators” category at the Northern Power Women Awards, an annual awards ceremony that exists to share the stories of amazing role models in and from the North. The awards recognise those who are shifting the dial towards a more gender equal world. Every year, thousands of nominations are made for individuals from across Yorkshire, the North East and the North West. Members of the DanceSyndrome team travelled to Manchester Central Convention Complex on Monday 18th March for the awards ceremony and were thrilled to receive a Commended Award in their category.

Julie Nicholson, Managing Director at DanceSyndrome said “Monday was the first day of the national Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week campaign. This year the campaign is about ending stereotypes about what people with Down’s syndrome can and can’t do. Lots of people will have seen the “Assume I can” video on social media and we proudly support the national campaign every year because we firmly believe that people with learning disabilities can achieve anything that they set their mind to if they are supported to follow their dreams. Our inclusive dance work gives people opportunities to become visible leaders and have their voices heard on issues that are important to them. It’s wonderful to receive recognition like winning a Northern Power Women Award at any time, but it’s extra special to receive it on the first day of a campaign like this. It truly demonstrates that people with learning disabilities can and do make a significant contribution to society and should be celebrated and given a platform at events like this. We’re so proud of our team and their incredible achievements which truly reinforce the “Assume I can” message!”

DanceSyndrome Founder Jen Blackwell said “Being nominated for this award shows that people with learning disabilities can do amazing things with their lives if given a chance. I do have Down’s syndrome but that doesn’t define me. I believe that everybody can dance and do things they love no matter how other people define us.”

During Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week, if you’re inspired by DanceSyndrome’s inclusive approach, please consider supporting our work with a donation. For one week only, any donations made will be doubled by the Big Give! To donate, visit the Big Give Arts For Impact campaign. Every donation will be matched for 7 days from midday 19th March – midday 26th March, ensuring twice the impact.