Howard Kennedy has been named a finalist for Pre-Recruitment Programme of the Year at the ninth annual UK Social Mobility Awards.
The UK Social Mobility Awards (SOMOs) were established to recognise and celebrate forward-thinking organisations that are actively creating positive social change for their employees and in their communities, by embedding social mobility initiatives into their core business strategy.
Since their launch in 2017, the SOMOs have become an important platform for promoting social mobility in the UK and have attracted entries from leading organisations across the country, spanning multiple sectors.
The awards provide valuable recognition for organisations who are leading the way in social mobility.
Tunde Banjoko OBE, Founder of the UK Social Mobility Awards, said: “Our vision is for every employer and educator in the UK to take meaningful action on social mobility, so we’re thrilled to see the highest ever entries to this year’s awards.
This record number really highlights that more and more UK businesses understand social mobility is good for business and are actively getting involved in implementing initiatives across the board.”
Howard Kennedy has been named as a finalist in the Pre-Recruitment Programme of the Year category for our "Be Extraordinary Programme" - a social mobility initiative, designed to improve access to careers in the legal sector for young adults from less-advantaged socio-economic backgrounds. The programme is built around our core values - Talk Straight, Think Smart, Be Yourself - which serve as its guiding principles. This eight-day programme provides participants with hands-on work experience, targeted skills development workshops, and on-going mentoring. Participants gain practical skills, professional insight, and the confidence to navigate the legal world—key attributes that enhance their employability and readiness for future opportunities. With strong board sponsorship, firm-wide volunteer engagement, and a structured, values-led design, Be Extraordinary is helping to build a more diverse and inclusive talent pipeline—ensuring that potential, not background, determines opportunity.
Irena Molloy, Executive Director of Howard Kennedy, said: “We’re honoured to be shortlisted in the Pre-Recruitment Programme of the Year category at the UK Social Mobility Awards. Our Be Extraordinary programme reflects our commitment to social mobility and responsible business—providing access to opportunities for all, regardless of background.”
Winners for the awards are determined by an independent judging panel, made up of leading figures from business, charity, and the public sector, chaired by the HM Lord Lieutenant of London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE.
The winners will be announced at an in-person awards gala in Central London on Thursday 2 October 2025.
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