Shortlist unveiled for the Forward Ladies Leadership Summit and Awards 2022

The annual awards recognise women breaking new ground and achieving excellence across the UK and beyond.

Designed to demonstrate women’s leadership, enterprise, talent, and innovation, the FL Leadership Summit and Awards has become one of the UK’s most recognised and well-attended business awards.

This year’s theme, unstoppable women, will celebrate women who have overcome exceptional odds to get where they are. It will celebrate the role models, those inspiring their teams and the next generation of talent, smashing glass ceilings and uplifting communities.

Speakers include Joanna Jensen, founder and chief executive of Child’s Farm.

The 75 shortlisted applicants will compete for eleven awards in categories across all sectors, including transformational leader, emerging leader, rising star, STEM leader, inspiring mentor of the year, education/academic leader, social impact, start-up, female entrepreneur, disruptor/innovator, and young entrepreneur.

Griselda Togobo, chief executive of Forward Ladies, said: “We had to pause our live events due to covid so we are delighted to be back in person recognising the immense contribution that women make in business.

“We have received some excellent entries from large and small businesses and individuals at all stages in their career journeys. All of those who have been shortlisted this year can be immensely proud of their success and all they have achieved.”

The shortlisted applicants in each category are now invited to appear before a live panel of independent judges, followed by the FL Leadership Summit and Awards in Leeds on November 25. The judges will select an overall business woman of the year and issue special awards such as one to watch and a lifetime achievement award.

The awards welcome back leading business figures on the judging panel, such as Sahar Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic.

Ms Hashemi said: “I absolutely love the Forward Ladies awards. I remember the first time I attended a few years ago and entering the room as the speaker – I couldn’t believe the buzz and the energy. But then again, it’s no surprise that so many high-achieving women in one room could create an unbelievably high-octane, inspiring atmosphere.

“Every year it gets better and better. As a judge, I get so much inspiration and positive energy from meeting the incredible women shortlisted for awards. So, here’s to another fabulous year – the future is female, and you are all living proof – you go, ladies.”

The live awards ceremony will take place on November 25 2022, at the Royal Armouries in Leeds from 10:30am-3:30pm. Tickets for the event are now on sale.

For more information, to view the shortlist and buy a ticket, visit: forwardladies.com/awards-2022