The pandemic could not stop the fifth Barking and Dagenham annual Women’s Empowerment Awards. The awards, which were held online this year, celebrated the inspirational women of Barking and Dagenham.
Women were honoured across eight categories, with finalists and winners carefully selected by a panel of judges. Attendees joined together to deliver some inspirational words as part of a special Women’s Empowerment Month video.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, Cllr Saima Ashraf, said: ”I am delighted that the pandemic did not stop us from honouring the amazing women of our borough. It is always very humbling to hear stories of inspirational local women, who show that the fight for gender equality is in good hands. It gives me great confidence that future generations will be able to flourish and prosper with great role models in the community.”
“I am extremely proud of these awards and all of the nominees. I’m also glad to announce that nominations are now open for next year’s awards, so if you think someone deserves recognition please let us know.”
This year’s winners are:
- Parent of the year – Joyce Bowness
- Volunteer of the year – Lindsay Rust
- Businesswoman of the year – Joelle Mae David
- Leadership, Arts and Culture – Avril McIntyre
- Young Woman of the year – Elivire Mavusi Matu
- Community Group of the year – The Hive
- Overall Woman of the year – Joelle Mae David
- Anne Eastlea Award – Liza Valance
Next year, the Young Woman of the Year category will be renamed in tribute to Jodie Chesney.
Nominations for next year’s awards are now open and will close on Sunday 31 January 2021. Details on available at: www.lbbd.gov.uk/wem