A major addition has been made to the team for the prestigious Dyslexia Awards – ahead of a grand ceremony later this year.
The awards, which are set to return to Shropshire in the Autumn, shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of dyslexics across the UK.
The event, which began as a regional initiative in the county before growing nationally, is known for its inspirational stories and community spirit.
Ahead of the ceremony in October, Shropshire businesswoman Kathryn Bray, has been appointed to the awards committee team.
Before becoming involved with the organisation, Kathryn worked as a software entrepreneur earlier in her career.
She then moved into education as a teaching assistant and student support officer – and now runs her own laser hair removal business.
She is the first part-time paid employee for the organisation, working alongside awards founder and dyslexia champion, Elizabeth Wilkinson MBE, who also operates as
The Dyslexic Dyslexia Consultant (DDC) and organises the annual Dyslexia Information Day.
Elizabeth, a friend of 50 years to Kathryn, praised her vital work towards the organisation’s success.
She said: “I’m thrilled to have Kathryn on board, and it is super exciting to have a team member with us on the team.
“She has already had a really positive impact on the work that we do and is an integral part of the team.
“Her role focusses primarily on the awards but she also provides support to the DDC and Dyslexia Information Day too.
“She juggles it all and is worth her weight in gold with what she does.
“Kathryn has such a passion for recognising potential in others and being part of something that celebrates neurodiversity and achievement is very close to her heart.”
New for 2026 is the STEMM Award, celebrating the achievements of dyslexic individuals who are over the age of 18 and have made significant contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or medicine.
The judging panel for the event is made up of a range of businesswomen and men from across the county, as well as past award winners such as Katie McKeown, Wayne Chisnall and two-time winner Simon Washbrook.
A list of other judges includes Amelie Edwards, Beth Heath, Deborah Udakis, Gary Robinson, Jude Robinson, former finalist Lejina Leal, Leigh Clarke, Lisa Rickard, Rob Udakis, Ruth Ross, Sarah Stembridge, Stephen Arnold and Stuart MacKenzie.
Organisers have also confirmed a number of sponsors, and Eli added: “Our sponsors play a huge part in making the event so special. Their support is vital to what we do.
“It is fantastic to have so many great organisations playing their part in such a brilliant ceremony and helping to celebrate so many inspirational individuals.”
The awards and sponsors include:
Amazing Artist (18+), sponsored by In The Loop, Community Shining Star (20+), sponsored by Bespoke Computing Ltd, Community Shining Star (13-19), Innovation (18+), sponsored by Exclusive Solutions Ltd, Young Innovator (14-19), sponsored by SEAH, Entrepreneur (21+), sponsored by CGR Business Solutions, Young Entrepreneur (16-21), sponsored by Darwin Wealth Management, and STEMM (18+).
The nationally celebrated event continues to show the growing awareness for dyslexic individuals, with notable figures from various sectors, including arts, sports, and business, continuing to share their stories.
Nominations for all categories remain open and will close on July 21. To nominate a candidate or to find out more about the categories and the nomination process, please visit here.
For sponsorship opportunities, businesses can contact Kathryn at kathryn@theddc.org.uk
