Sonya Byers, Chief Executive Officer of Women in Transport, Patron of Women on the Move Against Cancer, and Trustee of parkrun global, has been honoured with an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours 2024. This prestigious award recognises her exceptional contributions to diversity and inclusion within the transport industry, her dedicated efforts in supporting cancer awareness and research, and her significant role in promoting community health and well-being through parkrun.
Under Sonya’s visionary leadership, Women in Transport has championed the advancement of women across all levels of the transport sector. Her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment has led to the implementation of innovative initiatives and industry collaborations that have significantly increased the representation and influence of women in transport.
Sonya joined WTS London as a member in 2007 and joined the board as a volunteer events chair in 2013. She was appointed to vice president in 2017 leading the launch and rebranding from WTS London to Women in Transport to build a national UK membership network advancing women working in transport. Sonya co-created the Advance mentoring programme in the same year and co-founded Women in Transport’s Diversity and Inclusion Bus Group in 2019.
As Patron of Women on the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC), Sonya is part of a community of advocates committed to making a difference. WOMAC Patrons volunteer their time to organise activities and raise funds for cancer charities to support more effective treatments or improving the quality of life for cancer sufferers, their families and carers.
In her role as Trustee of parkrun global, Sonya supports the growth and development of the worldwide parkrun community. Sonya is the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead trustee for parkrun global and sits on the safeguarding committee as well as being a Run Director at her local Barking junior parkrun. parkrun is committed to promoting physical activity, mental well-being, and community engagement across diverse populations.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” said Sonya. “This award is a testament to the incredible work of the teams at Women in Transport, WOMAC, and parkrun global. Together, we have made strides in promoting diversity and inclusion in transport, supporting vital cancer initiatives, and fostering healthier communities. I am grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey and look forward to continuing our work to create positive change.”
(Pic – Ro Photographs/Women in Transport)
