About DEHA
Celebrating the people who make Dorset stronger
A pioneering community organisation honouring, celebrating and showcasing the positive contributions Dorset’s diverse ethnic communities make to the county.
Our story
Recognising role models since 2018
The Dorset Ethnic Heroes Awards recognise the achievements and success stories of role models across business, community and academia. Following public nomination, a public vote and independent jury verification, winners are celebrated at a five-star Awards Ceremony and Cultural Showcase.
From emerging changemakers to longstanding community leaders, the Awards create a platform for visibility, pride and connection. Every story of contribution adds to Dorset’s wider picture of resilience, dedication and impact.
To champion greater awareness, strengthen social inclusion and celebrate positive contributions that shape a stronger Dorset for everyone.
Our mission
What we stand for
Three commitments guide everything we do
- 01
Championing
Greater awareness of Dorset’s ethnic heroes
- 02
Promoting
Equality and diversity in Dorset
- 03
Enhancing
Social inclusion in Dorset
Celebrating our communities
AsianCaribbeanAfricanBrazilianIndianPakistaniBangladeshiChineseJapaneseKoreanNigerianGhanaianZimbabweanSouth AfricanBotswananKenyanPolishRomanianGreekTurkishFrenchGermanIrishDutchArabEgyptianPersianLatin AmericanRomaTravellerMixedMultiple heritageAnd beyond
What we recognise
Excellence and impact in every part of Dorset life
- Business
- Education
- Health and social care
- Arts and culture
- Sport
- Innovation
- Volunteering
- Community leadership
Our journey
From a first awards night to #DEHA2027
- 2018
The Awards begin
A Dorset-wide recognition platform launched, establishing a foundation for celebrating contribution and inclusion.
- 2019
Growing reach
The Awards expanded their reach, deepening county-wide engagement and community recognition.
- 2027
#DEHA2027
The Awards return on Saturday 18 September 2027 at Lighthouse, Poole, with a clear focus on credible recognition and wider community impact.
How we work
Credible recognition, fairly run
Not for profit
Dorset Ethnic Heroes Awards is a constituted, not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation.
Independent judging
Winners are scored by an independent jury against published criteria, alongside a public vote.
Conflicts declared
Jurors declare any conflict of interest and step aside from categories where they know a nominee.
Open about money
Sponsorship funds the Awards. We are not VAT-registered, so all sponsorship prices are final.
Get involved
Be part of the story
Nominate a hero
Know someone who makes Dorset stronger? Put them forward in one of our 15 categories.
Get a reminderPartner with us
Put your brand alongside excellence and diversity, with twelve months of promotion.
Sponsorship packagesJoin us on the night
Saturday 18 September 2027 at Lighthouse, Poole: red carpet, gala dinner and ceremony.
The Awards night