Be Inclusive Hospitality names its 2026 Spotlight Award winners

The fifth Be Inclusive Hospitality Spotlight Awards took place at Quaglino's in London on Monday 12 October, The Morning Advertiser reports. The awards recognise Black and ethnic minority people across UK hospitality, from people just starting out to established names. This year's 60 finalists came from seven regions and more than 10 cuisines.

Some of the winners - Chef of the Year: Ayesha Kalaji, Queen of Cups in Glastonbury - Rising Star: Dijön Bascombe, chef and founder of Dijön Cafe in London - Wine Professional of the Year: Emmanuel Mireku (Manny Does Wine) - Beverage Professional of the Year: Marverine Cole, one of the UK's first accredited female beer sommeliers - Bar/Pub of the Year: House of MOBO in Norwood, south London - People's Choice Restaurant of the Year: Chuku's

Nathaniel Mortley, known as NattyCanCook, won People's Choice Person of the Year and Best Caribbean Food for 2210, after turning his life around through cooking following time in prison. The late chef Dominic Taylor received the Spotlight Icon Award, presented to his family by Levi Roots.

Why it's worth a look: the list takes in chefs, wine and beer experts, a writer and a head-office role, which shows there's more than one way up in this industry. Follow a few of the winners for ideas, and keep an eye on Be Inclusive Hospitality if you'd like to be in the running one day.