Annie Lennox was a recipient of a lifetime achievement award at the Multicultural Business and Community Champion Awards on Saturday night.

Annie Lennox has received an honorary lifetime achievement award at the MBCC Awards in Birmingham on Saturday night.  Annie has been recognised for her tireless efforts in raising awareness of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa and advocating against violence towards women. Alongside these causes, Annie has passionately supported victims of the Windrush scandal, urging for swift and comprehensive compensation for families unjustly affected by deportation threats and denial of legal rights by the Home Office.

In her heartfelt video acceptance speech, Annie expressed, “It’s such an amazing thing to be given an award like this. I don’t do what I do to receive awards. It’s not about this, it’s a private thing. I really appreciate this. It’s a desire to make a positive contribution to this world, that is sometimes so completely broken and so beautiful at the same time. There are millions and billions of us, good people that want to create bridges not gaps. We don’t want to fight each other. I’m just one of them.”

Annie’s recognition came amidst the celebration of unsung heroes from across the UK, who were honoured for their outstanding and humbling achievements in business, charity, and community at the annual MBCC awards. Hosted by comedian Judi Love and soul legend Omar, with Alison Hammond also receiving an accolade presented by Beverley Knight, the event celebrated 20 categories highlighting community business, charity leaders, and volunteers.

Founder Zoe Bennett established the MBCC awards in 2016 as a non-profit organisation inspired by the tragic loss of her father, Errol. Zoe remarked, “My dad was my hero and I wanted to recognise other people who do so much for others. My mission was to focus on the people that make a difference in both the business and general community.”

Zoe further commented on Annie’s impact, “When it comes to Annie, you can see our whole world is her community. It has been for decades since she appeared on stage at the Nelson Mandela 70th birthday party back in 1988 and became an activist through her SING foundation.”

Watch Annie's acceptance speech on this page.