Chamber reveals Inspiring Women shortlist

The North East Chamber of Commerce has revealed the finalists for its Inspiring Women in Business Awards 2026, which celebrate leaders, entrepreneurs, future talent and employers driving change, innovation and growth.

This year’s shortlist spans organisations of all sizes and sectors, from growing small businesses to major exporters, charities and social enterprises.

The finalists are:

• Business Leader of the Year, sponsored by Sweeney Miller Law: Helen Cowie (Eldon Square), Leah Barrett (Global Procurement Group) and Jayne Meir (Northumbria Police)
• Inspiring Woman in Business – Small Business, sponsored by Bishop Auckland College: Jamilah Hassan (JH Property Connect), Kathryn Meadows (Nicholsons Butchers), Sarah Reid (Richard Reed Solicitors) and Sam Spoors (Talentheads)
• Inspiring Woman in Business – More Than 50 Employees, sponsored by Handelsbanken: Katie O’Brien (Komatsu UK), Michelle Robson (PD Ports), Laura Auty (RS Industrial Services) and Lucy Jenkins (Ushaw Historic House, Chapel and Gardens)
• Inspiring Woman in Business – International Trade, sponsored by Port of Tyne: Kerry Roper (Global Procurement Group), Katie Fryer (Greencare Mobility) and Michelle Robson (PD Ports)
• Inspiring Woman in Business – New Business, sponsored by Sage: Maxine Fox (5 Circles), Alexandra and Leandra Saphiris (Manna Organic) and Sarah-Jane Ethan (The Soma Academy)
• Most Inspiring Employer – Small Business, sponsored by Intuit: Holiday Inn Middlesbrough, Northumberland Football Association and The Montessori People
• Most Inspiring Employer – More Than 50 Employees, sponsored by RE Group: Atom Bank, Mercedes Benz of Teesside and Ramside Estates
• Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Hartlepool College: Rheanne Chalmers (BTG Begbies Traynor), Priya Carr (Newcastle United Football Club) and Sophie Gravill (NEXUS)
• One to Watch, sponsored by Dame Allan’s Schools: Charlotte Graham (Hiyed CIC), Morgan Saville (NEXUS), Inass Khalaf (Redrose Manufacturing) and Samantha Rennison (The Experience Effect)

The awards also recognise women making a difference through charities, social enterprises and community initiatives.

• Community and CSR Inspiring Woman of the Year – Business, sponsored by Hargreaves: Kelly Smith (SPELK.), Dawn Gaskin (Tekmar) and Jane Austen (Wave)
• Community and CSR Inspiring Woman of the Year – Charity, sponsored by North East Women and Girls Fund at Community Foundation North East: Tori Bradison (Northern Cancer Voices), Sandra Roberts (Pioneering Care Partnership), Sarah McPhie (Stockton and District Citizens Advice Bureau) and Sophia Stovall (Tyne Rivers Trust)
• Community and CSR Inspiring Woman of the Year – Social Enterprise, sponsored by North East Enterprise Agency: Sihle Mapanda (2way Tenancy Solutions CIC), Tracy Fee (Hiyed CIC) and Caroline Afolabi-Deleu (Success4All CIC).

Ashley Carney, the North East Chamber of Commerce’s events and awards manager, said: “The calibre of this year’s entries has been truly exceptional and a real source of inspiration. 

“They reflect the outstanding leadership, resilience and creativity of talented women from across the North East, highlighting the incredible contribution they make to their organisations and the wider community.

“These awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise women who are achieving remarkable success while supporting and inspiring those around them and creating a positive impact across our region.

“Congratulations to every one of our finalists. 

“We’re delighted to celebrate your achievements with you at Newcastle Civic Centre next month and we look forward to what promises to be a fantastic occasion.”

The Inspiring Women in Business Awards 2026, headlined sponsored by Newcastle International Airport, will take place at Newcastle Civic Centre on Friday, November 27.

Tickets are set to be made available through the Chamber website.

Alice Andreasen, chief corporate affairs officer at Newcastle International Airport, added: “We’re delighted to sponsor the Inspiring Women in Business Awards for the third consecutive year. 

“We can’t wait to celebrate the outstanding achievements of those shortlisted as well as showcase the fantastic opportunities that the aviation industry can offer professionals at all levels.”

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