Nissan has been honoured with the ‘Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility Award’ at the 2025 Metro Pride Awards, recognising its exceptional commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
The awards, held on Wednesday 26 February at the Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden, London, brought together inspiring individuals, brands, organisations and charities dedicated to improving the lives and opportunities of LGBTQ+ people across the UK.
Nissan was recognised for its dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), particularly through the Possibilities Project which is a long-term initiative designed to foster inclusivity, equality and opportunity for individuals from all backgrounds. Shortlisted by public nomination and selected as the winner by a panel of expert judges, the brand was commended for its work:
"Through its fantastic Possibilities Project activities and the brilliant Dare to Defy TV docuseries, plus a host of internal initiatives to make its workplaces more inclusive, Nissan has consistently demonstrated a remarkable commitment to DEI. It is a deserving winner of the 2025 Metro Pride Award for Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility – congratulations to all involved!"
Fiona Mackay, Nissan Marketing Director, commented:
"The Possibilities Project epitomises Nissan’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, both within our workplace and in the wider community. We're naturally very proud to be recognised for these efforts, but even more so that our ongoing support for the LGBTQ+ community plays a part in making a positive difference to the lives of underrepresented communities in the UK."
Rachel Foster, Nissan HR Manager, added:
"We are inspired by the incredible individuals and organisations recognised by the Metro Pride Awards and honoured to be part of this outstanding community. We believe that embracing diversity not only strengthens our company but also drives positive change in the world. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with the LGBTQ+ community to build a future that is inclusive for all."
Established in 2021, the Nissan Possibilities Project is the Nissan long-term CSR programme, promoting Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) with a key focus on supporting the LGBTQ+ community through meaningful internal and external initiatives.
A major highlight of these efforts is Dare to Defy, a three-part Prime Video docuseries launched in December 2024, which explores breaking down barriers in sport for underrepresented communities. Episode two examines how football can promote greater inclusivity and features the Nissan collaboration with Manchester City FC and the club’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, Canal Street Blues, to bring the spirit of Manchester Pride to Manchester City’s first Premier League home game of the 2024/25 season. Dare to Defy is now available in 28 countries.
Beyond its on-screen efforts, the Nissan Possibilities Project is making a tangible impact through a range of initiatives:
Rainbow Row at the TCS London Marathon – Nissan was a founding partner of this designated mile of the marathon route, dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and allyship through branding and live entertainment. This vibrant section of the course has become a highlight for spectators and runners alike.
LGBTQ+ Cheerzones at Great Run Series Events – Nissan has worked closely with local LGBTQ+ groups to create inclusive and supportive spaces along major running event routes, raising funds and fostering a fun, energetic atmosphere for participants and spectators.
DEI Partner of City in the Community (CiTC) – As part of its role, Nissan supported the launch of IncluCITY, Manchester City FC’s first-ever LGBTQ+ initiative, providing a safe spaces football programme for the LGBTQ+ community in the Manchester area.
Workplace Inclusion & Employee Support – In 2023, Nissan launched its own internal Pride Network, organising events and initiatives throughout the year to support LGBTQ+ colleagues. Additionally, Nissan has introduced gender-neutral facilities across all sites, updated HR policies to recognise gender fluidity and ensured mandatory unconscious bias training for all UK employees.
At Ancaster Nissan, we are proud to be part of a brand that is truly dedicated to driving positive social change. Winning the Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility Award is a testament to ongoing efforts from Nissan to support the LGBTQ+ community and create a more inclusive and equitable society.
