The brightest minds and trailblazers in the security and safety sector were honoured at the 2026 Security and Safety Entrepreneur Awards (SSEAs). Hosted alongside The Security Event at the NEC Birmingham on 28th April 2026, the ceremony in the Security Leaders’ Summit Theatre showcased individuals, teams, and organisations driving innovation, collaboration, and meaningful impact across the UK industry.
Backed by founding partners The Banks Foundation, BSIA, and Skills for Security, the SSEAs continue to shine a spotlight on outstanding achievements that are shaping the future of security and safety.
The winners of the 2026 SSEAs are:
Young Entrepreneur of the Year (aged 30 and under) – Sponsored by The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals
Ethan Girling – Protekta Security
“Winning a Security and Safety Entrepreneur Award means a lot, especially given the strength of the competition. It’s something I’m proud of, but more importantly it reflects the team around me and the standards we work hard to maintain. I see this as a platform to keep building, strengthening trust, and opening the door to new opportunities.”
Entrepreneur of the Year – Sponsored by The Banks Foundation
Jonathan Wakerley – Engineer Now!
Intrapreneur of the Year
Darrell Gilmour – Skills on Demand – Skills for Security
Entrepreneurial Business of the Year – Sponsored by Skills for Security
MAN Commercial Protection
Market Disruptor of the Year
LINEV Systems UK
“We are delighted to be recognised by the SSEAs, particularly at a time when the need for more effective and scalable venue security solutions has never been greater. This award reflects the progress we are making in deploying AI-driven screening technologies that enhance safety while maintaining throughput and the overall visitor experience. Recognition like this not only validates our approach but also supports our ongoing work with partners and venue operators as we continue to demonstrate and roll out next-generation screening capabilities.”
Family-Owned Business of the Year – Sponsored by the British Security Industry Association
Mercury Training Services
Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by AJAX
Lisa Ventura MBE FCIIS
“Winning the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 SSEAs is something I genuinely did not expect, and it has moved me deeply. I have spent more than fifteen years working to change the way we talk about cyber security, putting people, empowerment and inclusion at the heart of everything I do. To have that work recognised in this way, alongside so many brilliant and inspiring fellow winners, is truly humbling. I will carry this honour with me for a very long time.”
Event organisers extended thanks to all supporting associations, judges, sponsors, and participants whose dedication helped make the SSEAs a resounding success.
