With over 500 applications received, this year’s awards recognised three exceptional winners across Business Woman of the Year, Freeths Woman with Edge and Woman of Achievement.
Celebrating the theme #ThisIsMe, the event recognised women who are confident in their own abilities, challenge expectations and aren’t afraid to make a difference. It was also the first year of the Freeths Woman with Edge Award, recognising courageous female business leaders who are driving change in their industries.
From transforming childcare and challenging the status quo in the rail industry, to supporting a community following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the winners represented the many different ways women can make a lasting impact.
With keynote speaker and actress Sally Lindsay joining the celebrations, alongside a fantastic performance from the all-female 2018 X Factor group LMA, it was a memorable day of inspiration, recognition and connection.
Congratulations to our 2019 winners!
Jennie Johnson MBE, Founder and CEO of Kids Allowed, was named Business Woman of the Year in recognition of her outstanding achievements in the childcare sector.
Having built an award-winning chain of nurseries across the North West, Jennie has created a business recognised for its exceptional standards of childcare, with every inspected setting achieving an Ofsted Outstanding rating.
Passionate about making a difference, Jennie also established her own training academy to support the development and knowledge of colleagues across the sector.
Debbie Francis, Managing Director of Direct Rail Services, received the inaugural Freeths Woman with Edge Award.
Recognised for her work as a catalyst for change in the rail industry, Debbie has consistently challenged expectations in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Her commitment to developing people, encouraging new attitudes and creating opportunities for others makes her a fantastic role model for women looking to make their mark.
The prestigious Woman of Achievement award was dedicated to the Women of Grenfell, recognising their extraordinary work supporting the community following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017.
Representatives from the Hubb Community Kitchen and Justice for Grenfell accepted the award on behalf of the women who came together to support those affected by the tragedy.
Through their compassion, determination and strength, these women helped bring people together, offering practical support and a sense of community during an incredibly difficult time.
The prestigious Woman of Achievement award was dedicated to the Women of Grenfell, recognising their extraordinary work supporting the community following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017.
Representatives from the Hubb Community Kitchen and Justice for Grenfell accepted the award on behalf of the women who came together to support those affected by the tragedy.
Through their compassion, determination and strength, these women helped bring people together, offering practical support and a sense of community during an incredibly difficult time.
Pauline Edden was recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contribution and dedication over many years.
A truly deserving recognition of a woman whose commitment, hard work and achievements have made a lasting difference, celebrating a lifetime of making a positive impact on others.
More about WOTY 2019
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