Inspiring Women Awards 2025 shortlist revealed

A North East business awards programme is set to shine a spotlight on women driving innovation, leadership and change across the region.

The North East Chamber of Commerce has announced the shortlist for its Inspiring Women in Business Awards 2025, supported by headline sponsor Newcastle International Airport, celebrating the achievements of women shaping workplaces, industries and communities.

Spanning sectors from law and manufacturing to education, hospitality and the creative industries, the finalists represent a diverse mix of businesses of all sizes.

The awards include ten categories, each highlighting individual and collective achievement across the region’s business landscape:

• Inspiring Woman in Business – Small Business, sponsored by Intuit.

Kathryn Meadows (Nicholsons Butchers), Jessica Gwaringa (Moonrise 24HR), Tamma Carel (Imvelo Ltd), Victoria Taylor (Probe Industries Ltd)

• Inspiring Woman in Business – Over 50 Employees, sponsored by Handelsbanken

Gill Hunter (Square One Law), Jo Phillips (Newcastle College), Laura Auty (RS Industrial Services), Sam Rennison (Northumbria Police)

• Inspiring Woman in Business – International Business, sponsored by Newcastle International Airport.

Dr Samantha Lunn (Palintest Ltd), Natascia Ganzerla (ElringKlinger GB Ltd), Tamsin Warren (Port of Tyne)

• Inspiring Woman in Business – New Business, sponsored by Sage

Cheryl Spears (Spearheads), Kelly Smith (Spelk Studio), Norma O’Sullivan (The Way Home Consulting)

• Most Inspiring Employer – Small Business, sponsored by Sage

BJM Group UK, E3Design Ltd, Week2Week

• Most Inspiring Employer – Over 50 Employees, sponsored by Handelsbanken

Bernicia, Hay & Kilner, Muckle LLP

• Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Hartlepool College of Further Education

Elysia Kirtley (Northumbrian Water Group), Emma Allison (Quora Group), Tehya McElvogue (Newcastle College)

• One to Watch, sponsored by Dame Allan’s Schools

Aoife Forbes (Forbes Finishings), Harriet Miller (Access Training Ltd), Lawizah Din (Northumbrian Water Group), Lesley Cuthbertson (Pitman Training)

• Business Leader of the Year, sponsored by Sweeney Miller Law

Chloë Clover (Wander), Liz Bromley (NCG), Louise Bradford (Creo Comms)

• Community & CSR Inspiring Woman of the Year

Business, sponsored by Hargreaves: Jane Heath (Grand Gosforth Park), Sophie Vassallo (TT2 Tyne Tunnels), Laura Telford (Holiday Inn Middlesbrough).

Charity, sponsored by PD Ports: Alisar Taylor (True Colours Theatre CIO Foundation), Gemma Lockyer Turnbull (NE Youth Ltd), Steph Capewell (Love, Amelia).

Ashley Carney, North East Chamber of Commerce’s events and awards manager, said: “This year’s entries have been nothing short of inspiring, showcasing the remarkable talent, leadership and creativity of women across our region. 

“These awards celebrate those who are not only achieving business success but also empowering others and making a real difference to their communities.

“Congratulations to all our finalists – and we look forward to celebrating with you at Newcastle Civic Centre next month.”

The awards will take place on Friday, November 28 at Newcastle Civic Centre, with tickets available soon.

More information can be found here.

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