Women of the Future Awards 2012
The search to unearth the brightest of Britain’s rising female stars begins today with the launch of the Women of the Future Awards 2012.
Founded by Pinky Lilani OBE in 2006 with Caspian Media, and supported by Shell, the awards celebrate the next generation of Britain’s high-potential women aged 35 and under who are breaking the mould and setting the agenda in business, the arts, science and technology.
Last year’s winners included Hayley Gait-Golding, who sold her own house to fund her dream of creating the successful healthy snack company BEAR nibbles, now a nationally stocked brand, as well as 18-year-old Hannah Blyth who discovered two asteroids during a work experience placement.
With Cherie Blair as patron, the mission of the Women of the Future Awards is to showcase and reward young talent, whilst creating new, positive role models for future generations.
Over the past seven years, Women of the Future Awards have been presented to ground breaking female pioneers including Thea Green, founder of the UK’s leading nail brand Nails Inc, Lisa Smosarski, launch editor of Stylist magazine, Sam Smith, founder and chief executive of city broker finCapp, and Alix Pryde, who since winning a Woman of the Future Award has gone on to become director of BBC distribution.
Founder Pinky Lilani said: "2012 is one of the most momentous years in our country’s history; more so than ever, now is the time to showcase all that Britain has to offer and this includes our young female talent.
"Our aim for the awards is simply to unearth the brilliant women go-getters, change-makers and exceptional grafters and give them the platform they need in order to become role models and inspire the next generation.
"We’re looking for women who have really pushed the boundaries and made a significant contribution to their fields, and are encouraging them to put themselves forward.
"If this sounds like you or if you know of a deserving winner, then I would strongly encourage you to nominate them for these influential awards."
Graham van’t Hoff, chairman of Shell UK, added: "Shell are proud to continue sponsoring these extremely worthwhile awards. Every year we witness an overwhelming number of inspirational young women emerge, each with their own stirring story and unique aspirations, and we have no doubt that 2012 will be any different.
"The Women of the Future Awards are set apart by their commitment to honouring not only women who have already achieved, but those who are at the forefront of Britain’s up and coming female talent. It is these young women who will be shaping our country’s future, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to recognize their achievements."
The closing date for entries is Friday September 21, 2012, with the awards ceremony taking place at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square on Tuesday November 20, 2012.
The Women of the Future Awards are hosted by Real Business, in association with Shell.
For information on how to enter the awards, visit: http://awards.womenofthefuture.co.uk/