Held at the National Football Museum a few days before the start of Black History Month, the Football Black List awards celebrates the achievements and contributions of people of Black origin across all areas of the game.
Findlater, who has been in his role with the Official Supporters Clubs since March 2020, was nominated for the award by City in the Community ambassador Alex Williams.
Man City Official Supporters Clubs
He was present at the event, alongside a host of famous names, to receive his award for his tireless efforts to make football more inclusive across all protected characteristics.
City and England’s Demi Stokes was also awarded on the evening, after winning Euro 2022 earlier this year.
Reflecting on the evening, Findlater said: “I was humbled to be nominated by Alex in the first place and to win was incredible. It really makes me feel valued for the work I do.
“There were also a lot of networking opportunities on the night. I came away inspired by conversations I had with people doing great work across the game and with ideas to improve inclusivity across our Supporters Clubs.”
Findlater believes his role to be unique within English football. His work for the Official Supporters Clubs sees him offer guidance to branches who are looking to ensure no-one feels they can’t join in.
This involves travelling to meetings around the UK and further afield, while championing the need for a welcoming environment for all supporters. He does all this in a voluntary capacity alongside his day job.
With over 330 branches worldwide, Findlater is able to use his expertise and share knowledge with supporters across the globe, and many clubs are proactive in the way they approach him for support.
“There is a spectrum, of course, but people do understand how important this area is,” he said.
“My role is to offer guidance, and sometimes have conversations that may prove challenging, but always with positive outcomes in mind.
“I will ask them what barriers may exist for people from all communities based on race, gender, sexual orientation and disabilities and we will work through solutions together.”
To speak to Bing about his work and how he can help your Official Supporters Club branch be more inclusive, please email eandd@mancityosc.co.uk.
The 2022 Football Black List award winners were: Tony Whelan, Bing Findlater, Diane Modahl MBE, Joe Thompson, Mike Edwards, Russell Hoyte, Ruth Ibegbuna, James Gregory, Nikita Parris, Demi Stokes
To find out more about the Football Black List awards, you can follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Photos courtesy of Bing Findlater and the Football Black List.
