It truly is an honour to be sponsoring the Jewel Awards, as, year after year, they showcase an incredible array of talent. I am incredibly proud to play a part in recognising and rewarding the contributions and successes of some truly exceptional individuals.

The Asian business community makes a hugely important contribution to the UK economy and, more often than not, its success is based on an inspiring mix of hard work and ambition.

Against the backdrop of an incredibly tough economic climate, it is an exciting time for the new Lloyds Banking Group. We have already firmly established ourselves as a Bank that remains committed to sensitively catering to the needs of the Asian community and we continue to look forward to working together to ensure ongoing and future success.

We have recognised some truly outstanding winners over the past years and I’m sure that 2009 will be no exception. As an organisation, we have had the pleasure of working with multiple generations of extended families, all with the same unfaltering drive and entrepreneurial spirit. You are role models for us all.

I wish you the best of luck in 2009 and beyond.

Truett Tate
Group Executive Director of Wholesale,
Lloyds Banking Group