Focus magazine shortlisted at PPA Awards for landmark Pride edition

The Pride edition was the first dedicated LGBTQ+ publication in the transport and logistics sector. The 68-page edition featured 25 contributors drawn from across the industry – including senior leaders, frontline workers, and allies – many sharing their stories publicly for the first time. Among them was an exclusive interview with Alex Hynes, Director General of Rail Services at the Department for Transport, who reflected on the importance of authentic leadership in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion.

The Pride edition was produced by Stark Comms, the specialist B2B content and PR agency that has edited and published Focus on behalf of CILT(UK) since 2023. The 68-page edition drove a significant increase in readership year-on-year and generated exceptional engagement across CILT(UK)'s social channels, sparking widespread industry conversation.

"Diversity and inclusion sit at the heart of what CILT(UK) stands for, and the Focus Pride edition is one of the most tangible expressions of that commitment we have produced. We wanted to create a space where LGBTQ+ voices in our industry could be heard, celebrated, and taken seriously - and the response from members, contributors, and the wider sector has shown just how much that matters. This PPA shortlisting is a proud moment for the Institute, and a reflection of the incredible people who trusted us with their stories,”
Helen Hardy, Chief Executive at CILT(UK).

"We’re delighted to be shortlisted alongside CILT(UK) in the PPA awards for our first-ever Pride edition of Focus magazine. What made this project so special was the privilege of working with so many remarkable people across the industry – uncovering stories that deserved to be told and finding voices that hadn't yet had a platform in our sector. Thanks to CILT(UK) for their commitment to this important initiative,”
Mel Stark, Director, Stark Comms.

The PPA Awards celebrate the UK's most influential publishers, brands, and content creators.