The Judges

  • Jude is a solicitor and Legal Review Manager at Cleaver Fulton Rankin Solicitors, with a diverse practice specialising in legal tech and emerging technologies.

    Jude is a frequent speaker on diversity and inclusion, in particular in relation to LGBTQIA+ rights and history. He has spoken on radio, podcasts/digital media and in person for BBC Northern Ireland, public bodies, businesses and charitable/grassroots organisations. He is an advisor to a number of grassroots, local pride organisations and charitable organisations. He is Chair of the Portrush for Mark Ashton Campaign and a volunteer with the LGBTQIA+ Heritage Project. Jude was a founding trustee of The White Ribbon Project NI, the male allyship charity for ending gender based violence. Jude is a trustee of PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland and a LawCare Champion. Jude is a member of the Law Society of NI Future of the Profession Committee and was an inaugural member Human Rights & Equality Group.

  • With over 20 years of leadership experience in sport, business, and charity development, Michael has a proven track record of delivering transformational change. He specialises in strategy development, engagement and communications, alongside training, workshops, coaching and mentoring. A European A-Licence coach, he devised award-winning initiatives such as “Football For All” and “Let Them Play,” which have driven inclusivity and societal change in Northern Ireland.

    Michael spent 16 years as a senior leader at the Irish Football Association, pioneering projects like World United and Street Soccer NI, endorsed by UEFA, FIFA and the EU. In 2018, he received Ulster University’s Outstanding Graduate Award for contributions to football, peace and community development.

    Currently, Michael leads Communications and Engagement for the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission and chairs working groups on sports and human rights at the Commonwealth and European levels. He is also the Chairman of Belfast Healthy Cities and County Antrim SuperCupNI.

    A founder of the Rights at the Finish Line podcast and the Street Soccer NI homeless charity, he is internationally respected for his innovative approach to social responsibility, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy.

  • Laura Lavery is Community and Engagement Lead in PA Consulting, and Co-chair of the Working With Pride Network within Northern Ireland. She has 10 years’ experience working with networks and DEI, and is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, community organisation and supporting employers to create inclusive, safe spaces for their people.

  • With 14 years of broadcasting experience, Ibe Sesay is one of Northern Ireland's most recognisable voices as a presenter at Q Radio. Alongside his radio career, Ibe has established himself as a sought-after event host, bar and club DJ, and voiceover artist, bringing energy and expertise to everything he turns his hand to.

    Beyond the airwaves, Ibe is deeply committed to his community. Drawing on his background in care for disabled people, he channels that passion into meaningful advocacy and charitable work across Northern Ireland. He serves as an ambassador for Concern Worldwide UK, Sense and is a proud supporter of Rosie's Trust, a charity providing vital support to cancer patients and their pets.

    Known for his warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine connection with people from all walks of life, Ibe brings both professional credibility and a strong community ethos to his role as a judge.