Transgender woman from Portslade shortlisted in 2020 Rising Star Awards

Joanne Monck, a Stonewall Schools Role Model and National Diversity Mentor, who works voluntarily as a hate crime ambassador for Sussex Police, is among 200 people that have been shortlisted.

The awards celebrate remarkable women within the UK from across 20 categories representing different industries and professions.

Joanne, 64, said: “I was overjoyed and humbled to receive an email from WeAreTheCity. This prestigious award celebrates the roles that women play in today’s modern society.

“I was originally nominated for all the voluntary work I do for Sussex Police, as an Independent Advisor, Hate Crime Ambassador and my involvement on several of their scrutiny panels which include Trans External Reference Group, LGBT Advisor panel, and Stop and Search scrutiny panel.

“I am also EID advisor to the Bluebell Heritage Railway, a Stonewall Schools Role Model, and do voluntary work for the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner.

“One of my more recent volunteer roles is as a member of the Crown Prosecution Service South East Advisory hub, where I will advise on hate crime to LGBT people particularly through social media, where it is very difficult to prosecute successfully.”

WeAreTheCity received more than 1,000 nominations from across the UK and Northern Ireland.

The winners will be announced on Monday, May 11.

Joanne has also been nominated in the Positive Role Model for LGBT category at this year’s National Diversity Awards.

To nominate Joannne, visit www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/nominate.

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