DanceSyndrome wins double at International Business Awards

DanceSyndrome scored two gold Stevies at the 21st Annual International Business Awards.

The first was for the Accrington-based charity itself, which won in the “Organization of the Year - Non-Profit or Government Organizations – Small” category.

Co-founder and trustee Sue Blackwell was also recognised as the winner of the “Turning the World Upside Down” category.

DanceSyndrome uses dance to support people with and without learning disabilities. The multi award-winning charity was co-founded in 2009 by Sue Blackwell and her daughter Jen, who has Down's syndrome.

After leaving school, Jen found it difficult to find career opportunities in community dance that were accessible to people with learning disabilities, so DanceSyndrome was founded with the ethos that disability should never be a barrier to following your dreams.

All DanceSyndrome sessions are disability led, with people with learning disabilities taking visible dance leader roles to inspire people to see what can be achieved when we all become more inclusive.

The charity works across the North West offering weekly inclusive dance workshops, their own accredited leadership training and exceptional performances by the DS Collective performance company at a variety of events, including the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The International Business Awards are open to all individuals and organisations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small. The 2024 IBAs received entries from organisations in 62 nations and territories. Winners will be celebrated during a gala banquet at the InterContinental Hotel in Istanbul, Türkiye on Friday 11 October 2024.

More than 3,600 nominations from organisations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year. Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 300 executives worldwide who participated in the judging process in June and July.

Judges shared comments about why they felt DanceSyndrome was a worthy winner of the award: “DanceSyndrome's journey is truly remarkable, showcasing exceptional dedication to inclusivity and empowerment. From national awards to pioneering initiatives with NHS, their impact on breaking stereotypes and fostering community integration through dance is both inspiring and profound.

“Your entry is incredibly inspiring and demonstrates a transformative impact on individuals and communities. The significant funding and recognition you've received reflect your dedication and excellence."

The judges added: "Sue Blackwell's commitment to championing the rights and potential of individuals with learning disabilities is notable. She provides a voice to those often unheard, demonstrates the transformative power of support, and she's dedicated to respecting human rights, and fostering opportunities and supporting aspirations for all.”