The Black Tech Achievement Awards 2025 shone a bright spotlight on the remarkable contributions of Microsoft’s own innovators and changemakers, underscoring the power of diversity and inclusion in shaping the future of technology. Held on Friday 21 March at the prestigious JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, the event marked the fifth year of an awards ceremony dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of Black professionals in tech—a vital step toward a more inclusive industry.
▌ Celebrating Diverse Visionaries at Microsoft
At the heart of the evening was a celebration not only of individual excellence but also of the collective progress made in fostering a more inclusive environment across the tech landscape. The ceremony highlighted stories of perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to community. As Dr. Raphael Sofoluke, Founder and CEO, poignantly put it, the aim is to “highlight and amplify the voices and successes of those paving the way for future generations.”
Microsoft, a titan in global technology, was well represented by five inspirational nominees whose stories are forging a path toward greater representation at all levels of the industry. Among these trailblazers were award winners and nominees whose achievements from driving innovative solutions to championing social causes resonated with the broader mission of the event.
▌ Honouring Excellence: Meet the Nominees
• Kwadwo Benko, Senior Communications Manager, earned the coveted ‘Employee of the Year’ award. Celebrated for his innovative method of stimulating Copilot adoption within Microsoft UK as well as his leadership during Black History Month celebrations, Kwadwo’s journey from his roots in South Africa and Ghana to becoming an influential voice in the UK tech sphere is a narrative of sheer resilience and dedication. He reflected on the enduring encouragement his mother provided, saying, “I called her every day and asked, why? And she said, ‘just keep working hard, man.’” His story not only symbolizes the strength of personal determination but also embodies the spirit of mentorship and support.
• Anjola Adebowale, a Data & AI Consultant, was recognized as the 2025 ‘Rising Star’. Anjola’s contributions stretch far beyond her technical prowess—she is actively involved in multiple generative AI projects and co-leads the ‘Black Employees at Microsoft’ (BEAM) community. Through her university outreach initiatives, Anjola has empowered over 60 students from underrepresented communities with AI skills. Her acknowledgment of the vital role played by mentors and Employee Resource Groups resonates deeply with anyone who has ever benefited from communal upliftment in a competitive industry.
• Idil Wais, a Strategic Design Researcher, earned her nomination as the ‘Innovation Champion’. Idil’s work driving AI transformation through design thinking methodologies highlights a human-centred approach that blends empathy with creativity. For her, Microsoft’s culture—which has supported her through career transitions, higher education sponsorships, and the nudge to learn new skills—has been the backbone of her professional growth. Her emphasis on the significance of an adaptive and nurturing environment paints a clear picture: a thriving corporate culture can fuel revolutionary technological advances.
• Isaac Amosu, a Cloud Solution Architect, stood out as a nominee for the ‘Social Good’ award. Isaac’s commitment to community impact is evident in his university outreach programme, which includes panels, hackathons, and technical training sessions aimed at underrepresented students. His philosophy, rooted in a growth mindset that has carried him from a degree apprenticeship to a leading role, serves as a testament to the transformative power of learning and perseverance.
• Taonga Banda, serving as a Data & AI Cloud Solution Architect, was also recognised for her contributions towards social good. Taonga’s passion for integrating technology with community-centric approaches further emphasizes that recognition in such awards is as much about personal triumph as it is about the collective progress of diverse communities. Her remarks, which convey that her nomination is a reflection of shared stories and experiences, remind us that true leadership is rooted in empathy and collaboration.
▌ Striving for Change: The Broader Impact of Diversity and Inclusion
Beyond the individual accolades, the Black Tech Achievement Awards underscore an urgent call for change in the tech sector. The collective voice of the nominees argues for visible representation and leadership of Black professionals at all levels. The notion is clear: it’s imperative for every organisation to invest not only in innovation but also in the nurturing of diverse talent across the board.
During the ceremony, key voices from Microsoft emphasized how pivotal events like these are for both recognition and advocacy. Keyonda Gallardo, Microsoft UK’s HR Director, succinctly captured this sentiment: “We have to elevate the successes of every group.” By celebrating these achievements, Microsoft sets a precedent for what the future of technology should look like—a place where community, representation, and hard-won progress are at the forefront of every initiative.
Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President of Talent Development and Chief Diversity Officer, Lindsay-Rae McIntyre, added that the work surrounding diversity and inclusion is “complex and ever-evolving.” Such a perspective is critical in the context of an industry that often struggles with underrepresentation, particularly among Black professionals and Black women. By leveraging its vast resources and global platform, Microsoft aims to tackle these challenges head-on, ensuring that the voices and achievements of every talent are recognized.
▌ A Culture of Empowerment: Microsoft’s Driving Force
Microsoft’s commitment to diversity and inclusion transcends awards ceremonies. Initiatives such as EMBRACE, Microsoft’s Ethnicity at Microsoft UK Employee Resource Group, play a crucial role in celebrating race, culture, and ethnicity. These groups champion allyship and create avenues for underrepresented voices to inspire change within and beyond the organization.
The stories celebrated at the Black Tech Achievement Awards serve as powerful reminders of the potential that is unlocked through inclusivity. They provide tangible examples of how embracing diversity can unleash creativity, enhance problem-solving, and drive innovation. The culture Microsoft nurtures not only supports individual growth but also sets industry standards for how technology companies can simultaneously achieve business excellence and social progress.
▌ Lessons and Reflections for the Tech Industry
For Windows and broader tech enthusiasts, the narratives shared at this year’s awards offer several key takeaways:
As the tech industry continues to evolve, stories like those from the Black Tech Achievement Awards infuse hope and inspire a call for action. Microsoft’s example—a fusion of relentless innovation with a steadfast commitment to inclusive policies—serves as a beacon for both established organisations and emerging startups. Could a more diverse and inclusive tech landscape lead to even greater breakthroughs in innovation? The enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by these trailblazers suggest that the answer is a resounding yes.
Microsoft’s efforts underscore that diversity is not merely a box to check but an ongoing journey that enriches every facet of business and society. Through collaboration, learning, and mutual support, the next generation of tech leaders can build a future where every innovation is a testament to the best that humanity has to offer.
▌ Summary
The Black Tech Achievement Awards 2025 celebrated the accomplishments of five exceptional Microsoft employees, each contributing uniquely to the tech landscape through innovative work, community outreach, and a commitment to inclusion. Their stories are a microcosm of broader trends in diversity within the technology industry, serving as an inspiration for the future. As the tech world grapples with persistent challenges in representation, Microsoft’s example proves that embracing diversity not only promotes social good but also drives technological innovation.
By weaving together personal narratives with professional achievements, these awards remind us that every success story is a step toward a more inclusive and robust tech ecosystem—one where every voice matters and every achievement inspires further change.
Source: Microsoft Black Tech Achievement Awards 2025: Celebrating Microsoft’s achievers
▌ Celebrating Diverse Visionaries at Microsoft
At the heart of the evening was a celebration not only of individual excellence but also of the collective progress made in fostering a more inclusive environment across the tech landscape. The ceremony highlighted stories of perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to community. As Dr. Raphael Sofoluke, Founder and CEO, poignantly put it, the aim is to “highlight and amplify the voices and successes of those paving the way for future generations.”
Microsoft, a titan in global technology, was well represented by five inspirational nominees whose stories are forging a path toward greater representation at all levels of the industry. Among these trailblazers were award winners and nominees whose achievements from driving innovative solutions to championing social causes resonated with the broader mission of the event.
▌ Honouring Excellence: Meet the Nominees
• Kwadwo Benko, Senior Communications Manager, earned the coveted ‘Employee of the Year’ award. Celebrated for his innovative method of stimulating Copilot adoption within Microsoft UK as well as his leadership during Black History Month celebrations, Kwadwo’s journey from his roots in South Africa and Ghana to becoming an influential voice in the UK tech sphere is a narrative of sheer resilience and dedication. He reflected on the enduring encouragement his mother provided, saying, “I called her every day and asked, why? And she said, ‘just keep working hard, man.’” His story not only symbolizes the strength of personal determination but also embodies the spirit of mentorship and support.
• Anjola Adebowale, a Data & AI Consultant, was recognized as the 2025 ‘Rising Star’. Anjola’s contributions stretch far beyond her technical prowess—she is actively involved in multiple generative AI projects and co-leads the ‘Black Employees at Microsoft’ (BEAM) community. Through her university outreach initiatives, Anjola has empowered over 60 students from underrepresented communities with AI skills. Her acknowledgment of the vital role played by mentors and Employee Resource Groups resonates deeply with anyone who has ever benefited from communal upliftment in a competitive industry.
• Idil Wais, a Strategic Design Researcher, earned her nomination as the ‘Innovation Champion’. Idil’s work driving AI transformation through design thinking methodologies highlights a human-centred approach that blends empathy with creativity. For her, Microsoft’s culture—which has supported her through career transitions, higher education sponsorships, and the nudge to learn new skills—has been the backbone of her professional growth. Her emphasis on the significance of an adaptive and nurturing environment paints a clear picture: a thriving corporate culture can fuel revolutionary technological advances.
• Isaac Amosu, a Cloud Solution Architect, stood out as a nominee for the ‘Social Good’ award. Isaac’s commitment to community impact is evident in his university outreach programme, which includes panels, hackathons, and technical training sessions aimed at underrepresented students. His philosophy, rooted in a growth mindset that has carried him from a degree apprenticeship to a leading role, serves as a testament to the transformative power of learning and perseverance.
• Taonga Banda, serving as a Data & AI Cloud Solution Architect, was also recognised for her contributions towards social good. Taonga’s passion for integrating technology with community-centric approaches further emphasizes that recognition in such awards is as much about personal triumph as it is about the collective progress of diverse communities. Her remarks, which convey that her nomination is a reflection of shared stories and experiences, remind us that true leadership is rooted in empathy and collaboration.
▌ Striving for Change: The Broader Impact of Diversity and Inclusion
Beyond the individual accolades, the Black Tech Achievement Awards underscore an urgent call for change in the tech sector. The collective voice of the nominees argues for visible representation and leadership of Black professionals at all levels. The notion is clear: it’s imperative for every organisation to invest not only in innovation but also in the nurturing of diverse talent across the board.
During the ceremony, key voices from Microsoft emphasized how pivotal events like these are for both recognition and advocacy. Keyonda Gallardo, Microsoft UK’s HR Director, succinctly captured this sentiment: “We have to elevate the successes of every group.” By celebrating these achievements, Microsoft sets a precedent for what the future of technology should look like—a place where community, representation, and hard-won progress are at the forefront of every initiative.
Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President of Talent Development and Chief Diversity Officer, Lindsay-Rae McIntyre, added that the work surrounding diversity and inclusion is “complex and ever-evolving.” Such a perspective is critical in the context of an industry that often struggles with underrepresentation, particularly among Black professionals and Black women. By leveraging its vast resources and global platform, Microsoft aims to tackle these challenges head-on, ensuring that the voices and achievements of every talent are recognized.
▌ A Culture of Empowerment: Microsoft’s Driving Force
Microsoft’s commitment to diversity and inclusion transcends awards ceremonies. Initiatives such as EMBRACE, Microsoft’s Ethnicity at Microsoft UK Employee Resource Group, play a crucial role in celebrating race, culture, and ethnicity. These groups champion allyship and create avenues for underrepresented voices to inspire change within and beyond the organization.
The stories celebrated at the Black Tech Achievement Awards serve as powerful reminders of the potential that is unlocked through inclusivity. They provide tangible examples of how embracing diversity can unleash creativity, enhance problem-solving, and drive innovation. The culture Microsoft nurtures not only supports individual growth but also sets industry standards for how technology companies can simultaneously achieve business excellence and social progress.
▌ Lessons and Reflections for the Tech Industry
For Windows and broader tech enthusiasts, the narratives shared at this year’s awards offer several key takeaways:
- Individual Resilience and Mentorship: The personal journeys of nominees like Kwadwo and Anjola show that success in the tech arena is often built on unwavering personal determination and robust support systems. Their stories underline the importance of continuous mentorship and the value of listening to voices that come from diverse backgrounds.
- Innovation Beyond Technology: Idil’s work demonstrates that technological innovation isn’t just about code—it involves creative problem-solving, empathy, and a willingness to experiment with new methodologies. Design thinking, as showcased by her approach to AI transformation, represents a holistic methodology that bridges technology and human experience.
- Community-Centric Impact: The contributions of Isaac and Taonga highlight that technology has the transformative power to uplift communities. Their outreach initiatives remind us that the social impact of tech extends far beyond business metrics. It’s a call to action for all tech professionals to give back and pave the way for the next generation.
- Leadership in Inclusion: The overarching message of the awards is clear—visible representation matters. Elevating diverse voices ensures that the tech industry remains innovative and reflective of the global community it serves.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, stories like those from the Black Tech Achievement Awards infuse hope and inspire a call for action. Microsoft’s example—a fusion of relentless innovation with a steadfast commitment to inclusive policies—serves as a beacon for both established organisations and emerging startups. Could a more diverse and inclusive tech landscape lead to even greater breakthroughs in innovation? The enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by these trailblazers suggest that the answer is a resounding yes.
Microsoft’s efforts underscore that diversity is not merely a box to check but an ongoing journey that enriches every facet of business and society. Through collaboration, learning, and mutual support, the next generation of tech leaders can build a future where every innovation is a testament to the best that humanity has to offer.
▌ Summary
The Black Tech Achievement Awards 2025 celebrated the accomplishments of five exceptional Microsoft employees, each contributing uniquely to the tech landscape through innovative work, community outreach, and a commitment to inclusion. Their stories are a microcosm of broader trends in diversity within the technology industry, serving as an inspiration for the future. As the tech world grapples with persistent challenges in representation, Microsoft’s example proves that embracing diversity not only promotes social good but also drives technological innovation.
By weaving together personal narratives with professional achievements, these awards remind us that every success story is a step toward a more inclusive and robust tech ecosystem—one where every voice matters and every achievement inspires further change.
Source: Microsoft Black Tech Achievement Awards 2025: Celebrating Microsoft’s achievers
