Lee Chambers receives Freedom of the City of London

Lee Chambers, the Preston-based founder of Essentialise and Male Allies UK, was honoured with the Freedom of the City of London at a special ceremony at Mansion House.

He received the award from Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli, for services to equality in business and his outstanding contribution to gender equality nationally.

The Freedom of the City of London has been awarded since 1237, and is one of the oldest traditional ceremonies still in existence today. Chambers joined a distinguished list of freemen, with recent honourees including former footballer Ian Wright, musician Ed Sheeran and University of Oxford professor Dame Sarah Gilbert.

Chambers was nominated for Freedom by Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli and City Corporation Alderman Alastair King. The ceremony at Mansion House was the first of its kind for 125 years, bringing honourees from different fields together to connect and prosper.

Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli said: “Today’s ceremony embodies the essence of connectivity that underscores my mayoral theme. These people receiving the Freedom today are remarkable individuals who exemplify the City’s spirit of innovation and dedication, enriching the Square Mile’s diverse tapestry with their extraordinary contributions.”

City Corporation Alderman, Alastair King said: “It’s truly inspiring to witness the breadth of talent and expertise honoured today. These people not only excel in their respective fields but also embody the values that make our City vibrant and resilient. Their collective achievements highlight the power of collaboration and innovation in driving progress.”

Chambers said, “I’ve been in business for 16 years, and for the first 12 years, I kept my head down and worked hard to make a difference. To join an esteemed list of individuals, including the likes of Nelson Mandela and Morgan Freeman, is a moment to remember. You never know who is noticing the impact that you make, and this did come as quite a shock.”

This recognition comes at a busy time for Chambers, as he prepares to hard launch Male Allies UK in Q3 and prepares for the publishing of his new book, Momentum: Reboot Your Career, Unlock Your Potential, in January 2025.