Networking and professional development for women across Warwickshire and the West Midlands

2025 award categories

What each of the Ladies First Business Awards celebrates.

Business Woman of the Year

This individual is not just a leader—they are a force of nature! With innovation, resilience and an unwavering commitment to excellence, they have conquered the corporate world, breaking barriers and setting new standards.

A true visionary, their success is not only measured by personal achievements but also by the countless lives they have uplifted through mentorship and leadership.

The Ladies First Business Woman of the Year embodies integrity, inclusivity and an unstoppable drive for greatness. Their journey is proof that talent, hard work and fearless ambition can shape industries, redefine success and inspire generations to come.

Influencer of the Year

More than just a trendsetter, this individual is a powerful voice who inspires, engages and impacts communities both online and beyond. As a natural networker, they forge meaningful connections that amplify their message and bring people together. Through authenticity, creativity and a strong sense of purpose, they have built a platform that drives conversations, fosters relationships and sparks meaningful change.

The Influencer of the Year award honors someone who uses their influence to uplift others, challenge norms and create opportunities. Whether through thought leadership, brand collaborations, social advocacy, or industry innovation, their reach extends far beyond followers—shaping perspectives, empowering voices and leaving a lasting impact.

This award isn’t just about visibility—it’s about value. Their dedication to authenticity, inclusivity and positive change makes them a true influencer, connector and networker in every sense of the word.

Trailblazer of the Year

A game-changer, a rule-breaker, a fearless pioneer—this entrepreneur isn’t just making waves but creating new oceans. With bold vision and determination, they have shattered barriers and opened doors.

The Ladies First Trailblazer of the Year is an architect of transformation. As a forward-thinking entrepreneur, they not only drive change within their ventures but also inspire others to embrace innovation and step into the unknown with confidence.

Woman of Courage

Strength. Grit. Unshakable determination. This extraordinary person has faced challenges head-on, refusing to back down in the face of adversity. With grace under pressure and an unbreakable spirit, they have broken barriers, defied expectations and inspired countless others along the way.

The Ladies First Woman of Courage isn’t just a survivor—a warrior who stands tall, speaks up and leads with heart, proving that true bravery is about rising every time you fall and lighting the way for others to do the same.

Inclusive Leadership – Women on Boards

This person is not just taking a seat at the table but reshaping it. This visionary leader champions diversity, equity and inclusion, ensuring that boardrooms and leadership spaces reflect the world we live in. By empowering women and fostering diverse perspectives, this person is changing the decision-making landscape.

They have broken barriers and empowered other women to step into leadership roles and their influence extends beyond personal success.

The Ladies First Inclusive Leadership – Women on Boards award honors a visionary leader who is transforming the landscape of leadership, paving the way for a future where every voice is heard, valued and empowered.

Excellence in Marketing & Media

This outstanding person is a visionary leader in the world of marketing and media, shaping narratives, influencing audiences and driving impactful brand storytelling. Through creativity, strategic thinking and a deep understanding of consumer engagement they have set new standards of excellence in their field.

With an innovative mindset, this person has harnessed the power of marketing and or media to amplify voices, build meaningful connections and create transformative campaigns with the ability to adapt to evolving trends while maintaining authenticity.

The Ladies First Excellence in Marketing & Media award celebrates a dynamic professional who is redefining the landscape of marketing and media, proving that creativity, strategy and leadership can drive lasting change.

Excellence in Independent Food Business

Passion, flavour and a dash of fearless ambition—this person is redefining the food industry, one delicious creation at a time. With a commitment to quality and innovation, they have transformed their vision into a thriving business that delights, inspires and sets new standards.

The Ladies First Excellence in Independent Food Business award honours a culinary trailblazer who proves that success in food isn’t just about taste—it’s about heart, hard work and a passion for excellence.

Family Business of the Year

More than just a business, this is a legacy built on trust, dedication and shared vision. This family-owned enterprise blends tradition with innovation, demonstrating resilience, adaptability and a commitment to the community.

The Ladies First Family Business of the Year award celebrates the unique synergy between family values and business success, proving that when passion and purpose come together, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.

Rising Star & Future Leader

This person is not just climbing the ladder but building their own. This exceptional young leader is already making waves, proving that talent, drive and fresh ideas can shape the future of any industry. Their dedication, innovation and fearless pursuit of excellence make them one to watch.

The Ladies First Rising Star & Future Leader award celebrates a person who is inspiring peers and leading the way to a brighter, bolder future.

Startup of the Year

Fresh ideas, bold moves and unstoppable ambition—this startup is changing the game! By challenging, embracing innovation and pushing boundaries, this venture is a beacon of excellence.

The Ladies First Startup of the Year award honours a groundbreaking business that proves bold ideas and relentless passion can reshape industries, inspire communities and change the world.

Excellence in Technology & Innovation

In a world driven by technology, this person is breaking barriers, solving problems and revolutionising industries. Whether pioneering new solutions, developing groundbreaking products, or challenging norms in a male-dominated space, this person is leading the charge in tech and innovation.

The Ladies First Excellence in Technology & Innovation award recognises a true trailblazer whose contributions are pushing industries forward, proving that innovation knows no gender—only brilliance.

Excellence in Health and Wellbeing

This award shines a spotlight on an extraordinary individual or organisation dedicated to advancing health and wellness. Their passion for improving lives, fostering a culture of well-being and driving meaningful change in the health sector makes them a true standout.

The Excellence in Health and Wellbeing Award celebrates remarkable achievements in healthcare, medical research, mental health advocacy and wellness initiatives. Through innovation, empathy and a holistic approach, this recipient has tackled challenges head-on and laid the foundation for a healthier, stronger future.

As a beacon of inspiration, they embody compassion, inclusivity and commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities.

Excellence in Professional Services

Professionalism, expertise and an unrelenting drive for excellence define this outstanding individual or organisation. Setting the gold standard in professional services, they consistently go above and beyond, delivering exceptional results with precision and care.

The Excellence in Professional Services award honors those who demonstrate unparalleled proficiency, reliability and a client-first approach making them a benchmark of success in their industry.

Women in Property

Breaking ground and breaking barriers—this award celebrates a visionary person making waves in the property sector. Whether in construction, real estate, law, or architecture, they are reshaping the industry with their expertise, leadership and fearless determination.

The Women in Property award recognises a trailblazer who has not only excelled in their field but has also championed greater inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated sector. Through strategic thinking, resilience and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

More than just building structures, this person is building a legacy—one that inspires future generations of women to step forward, take charge and make their mark in the property world with confidence and ambition.

Charity & Community Advocate of the Year

This award honours an individual or organisation whose passion, dedication and advocacy have left a mark on their community. Through commitment to social change, they uplift others, provide support to those in need and champion causes that make a real difference.

The Charity & Community Advocate of the Year award recognises those who don’t just talk about change but create it. Whether through charitable work or transformative community initiatives, they foster inclusivity, strengthen social bonds and inspire collective action.

Their work is a testament to the power of purpose and compassion. They are the heartbeat of their community, proving that when people come together with passion and persistence, they can create a brighter, more inclusive world for all.

Business Consultant/Coach of the Year

Behind every thriving business is a brilliant mind offering guidance, strategy and support. This award recognises an exceptional consultant or coach whose expertise, mentorship and strategic insight have propelled businesses and individuals to greater heights.

The Business Consultant/Coach of the Year award celebrates a visionary thinker who diagnoses challenges, crafts innovative solutions and empowers teams to succeed. Their ability to inspire growth and foster a culture of continuous improvement makes them an invaluable asset to those they work with.

Beyond their impressive skill set, their real impact is measured in the successes they help others achieve. Their guidance is more than just advice—it’s a transformational force that drives progress, resilience and long-term success.

Business Man of the Year

Leadership, innovation and impact—this award celebrates a remarkable businessman who has set new standards of success in his industry and beyond. Through vision, resilience and dedication, he has built something extraordinary and contributed meaningfully to the wider business community.

The Business Man of the Year award recognises a leader who not only thrives personally but lifts others along the way. He is a champion of collaboration and inclusivity, fostering opportunities that empower those around him.

He may also be someone who has played a pivotal role in supporting and empowering the women in his life, helping them to achieve their own success and accomplishments

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