• Record-breaking 1,600 nominations received across 12 award categories and 3 game changer lists. 
• 80+ judges have selected the finalists, showcasing groundbreaking achievements across multiple sectors. 
• Co-headline partners Barclays and Bank of America lead the partnerships for Europe’s largest gender equality celebration. 
• Finalists span diverse sectors across the North, including finance, charity, sport, rail, education, public service, and more. 
• Game changers celebrated: Power List, Future List, and Advocacy List recognise trailblazers, future leaders, and advocates driving change. 

On Thursday 6th March 2025, the Northern PoWEr Women Awards, hosted by ITV New’s Nina Hossain, will bring together over 1,000 influential individuals and organisations at the Manchester Central Convention Complex, where the winners of Europe’s largest celebration of gender equality will be announced, just two days ahead of International Women’s Day. 

Now in its ninth year, the Northern Power Women Awards continues to spotlight the trailblazers, role models, and pioneers leading the charge for a more inclusive and equal future. More than 80 judges reviewed the record-breaking 1,600 nominations across 12 award categories and 3 game changer lists, highlighting a diverse range of industries. From firefighters and charity champions to leaders in rail, finance, sport, and digital, the finalists and game changers reflect the remarkable range of talent and passion driving gender equality across the North. 

The Game Changer Lists—the Power List, Future List, and Advocacy List—celebrate experienced individuals, future leaders and advocates promoting gender equality, equity and inclusion within their organisations and communities.

• The Power List will recognise 26 female leaders this year, who will join the 350+ current alumni, which includes the first Mayor of the Northeast and the chair of the FA. 
• The Future List is recognising 50 emerging leaders already making significant strides in their organisations and communities. 
• The Advocacy List continues its momentum from the launch at the 2024 Northern PoWEr Women Awards, with 28 new advocates committed to advancing gender equality and inclusion being added to the list. 

Simone Roche MBE, CEO of We Are PoWEr, Northern PoWEr Women Awards and PoWEr Collective CIC said: “The finalists and game changers for the 2025 Northern PoWEr Women Awards showcase the remarkable talent and dedication thriving in the North. These individuals are not only driving change within their industries but are also setting the stage for a more inclusive and equitable future.” 

Organisations included in 2025 finalists:  

• Network Rail, recognised for efforts in running a gender equality employee network that has now reached over 450 members in the North as well as a commitment to running mental health and wellbeing events with a strong focus on gender 
• JP Morgan, celebrated for its mentorship and leadership programs like Women On The Move as well as multiple ERGs committed to creating an inclusive working culture in a traditionally male-dominated sector 
• Nuclear Waste Service, committed to levelling the playing field with its staff count nearing a 50:50 gender balance in a sector with an average of just 30% female representation 

Other finalists include: Ikea (Large Organisation), Bentley Motors Ltd (Large Organisation), DWF Law (Large Organisation), DanceSyndrome (Micro Organisation), Leeds Dads (Micro Organisation) and The Rugby Football League (SME).  

Finalists leading the way include: 

• Jo Milne in the Person with Purpose Charity category. Jo Milne, known worldwide when her cochlear implants were switched on, is a passionate advocate for Usher syndrome, which causes both hearing and sight loss. Despite her own challenges, she founded Cure Usher Syndrome, launched an official Awareness Day, and secured research funding. Jo's memoir, documentary, and advocacy continue to inspire, alongside her determination to improve lives for others with the condition. 
• Qaisra Shahraz MBE in the Person with Purpose Public Sector. Qaisra is an education pioneer and peace activist whose efforts have empowered women’s learning and upskilled, trained, and mentored over 60 individuals in underserved communities using her PoWEr for good 

Power List: 

• Freda Shafi, a visionary leader and cultural advocate, known for blending art, culinary expertise, and community engagement. With a strong academic foundation, she creates immersive installations and writes on cultural identity, challenging societal norms. Her leadership fosters inclusivity and dialogue, inspiring positive change across diverse communities. 
• Steph Edusei, Chief Executive of St Oswald’s Hospice, is a champion for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, driving change in both the workplace and community. With over 30 years of leadership in Girlguiding UK and as Chair of Eliot Smith Dance Company, she empowers young women and amplifies underrepresented voices through initiatives like the ‘Black All Year’ podcast. Her advocacy and leadership create lasting social impact, fostering inclusivity at all levels. 

Other Power List include: Alison Benn, Professor Aline Miller, Alison Lowe OBE, Alison Ross MBE, Carolyn Ngiam, Cath Cummings, Chi Onwurah, Dr Emma Banks, Gaynor Carpenter, Gillian Ashcroft, Jo Ahmed MBE, Katie Gallagher OBE, Kelly Warburton, Kerry Phillips-Bland, Kirsty Bennett, Lindsay Gordon, Lucy Prior MBE, Munazza Jamal, Nasreen Karim, Rachel O’Donnell, Rupinder Ashworth, Sarah Walker, Victoria Gee and Victoria Kirby-Keyes.  

Future List: 

• Sophie Storm Roberts, a trailblazer and change-maker, dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through transformational coaching, motivational speaking, and youth development. A champion for gender equity, she inspires personal and professional growth by helping others break through limits, as seen in her Alpine Coast-to-Coast feat and work with the TrailBlazers initiative for young girls. Through her work, Sophie fosters resilience, confidence, and leadership, making a lasting impact on future generations. 
• Sherelle Fairweather, a leader in digital inclusion, driving Manchester City Council's five-year digital strategy to ensure technology benefits all. With over 10 years in equalities and social change, she previously coordinated the city’s response to the digital divide during the COVID pandemic. In addition to her council role, Sherelle serves on the boards of Manchester Animation Festival, Community Arts Northwest, and chairs Proper Job Theatre Trustees Board, advocating for long-lasting, inclusive change. 

Other Future List include: Aimee McFadyen, Alisha Evanson, Alyxandra Murdock, Amy Swan, Anouschka Van Mourik, Beth McKenna, Caralyn Moulding, Carly Marie Phillips, Christina Taylor, Daniela Sealy, Emily Andrews, Hannah McLean, Issy Hobson, Jennie Read, Jennifer Jacques, Jessica Page, Jo Milnes, Joyce Telfouet, Katelyn Young, Katie Arathoon, Kiara Orchard, Kirsty Rhodes, Manasa Vemulapati, Marianna Vaszilyiv, Megan Evans, Minoti Parikh, Mollieanne Joyce, Naomi Ilagoswa, Natasha Logan, Nawal Arshad, Nichola Thornborough, Nimra Zafar, Olivia Hale-Ross, Paige Louise Williams, Rae Evans, Rhian Owen, Saba Maskin, Sabby Jivanji, Shade Obiti, Sophia Ben-Yousef, Stuti Sethi, Suzanne Rutherford, Tami Kuboye, Tarifa Simpson, Yanitsa Arnaudova, Zeenat Patel and Zoe Moreland.  

Advocacy List: 

• Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, is a passionate advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. He has championed diverse leadership roles, promoted flexible working policies, and supported initiatives that empower women in sectors like science and technology. Through his leadership, Henri works to create a more equal and innovative economy in the North, ensuring that underrepresented groups have the opportunities to succeed. 
• Chris Maguire, Executive Editor at BusinessCloud and TechBlast has been recognised for his leadership in promoting gender equality and inclusivity within the tech and digital sectors. During his time at North West Business Insider (2012-2016), he initiated a women-only business list and worked to improve panel diversity. Through his impactful articles, mentorship, and advocacy, he has highlighted the barriers female founders face, particularly in securing investment. Chris continues to be a driving force in building a more inclusive and supportive tech community 
• Chris Woodroofe, CEO of Manchester Airport, has consistently championed gender equality and inclusivity throughout his 20+ year career. From his leadership at Gatwick to Manchester, he has implemented mentorship programs, closed the gender pay gap, and prioritised female representation, especially in leadership and underrepresented roles. Chris’s commitment extends to creating flexible working arrangements and offering targeted training, ensuring women have the support and opportunities needed to thrive in aviation. His leadership fosters an inclusive culture where diversity drives success. 
• Steve Beharall, CEO of Newcastle United Foundation, is a passionate advocate for women and equality, evident in his work with the Newcastle United Foundation and local charities. As a key supporter of Smart Works Newcastle, he’s helped raise their profile, fundraise, and connect with the Newcastle United Women’s Team. His selfless contributions to various causes and local leaders make him a standout supporter in the region. 

Other Adovcates include: Matt Carroll, Steve Beharall, Andy McAlpine, Chris Rix, Chris Stott, Colin Watt, Daniel Long, Danny Clarke, Danny Simpson, Gary Smithson, Ibrahim Mohamed, James Carss, Jon Dutton OBE, Kashif Ashraf, Nathan Ross, Omar Akram, Patrick Fenner, Paul Ayre, Professor Christian Harrison, Ranvir Singh, and Wayne Bennett. 

Amy Williams, Managing Director from Barclays comments “Awards like the Northern Power Women Awards are crucial in today's professional landscape because they provide a platform to celebrate and recognise the achievements of women and our allies, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. These awards also help to challenge stereotypes and break down barriers, promoting a more inclusive and diverse workforce. We cannot wait to celebrate with everyone in March on what promises to be an amazing night!” 

Other partners include Bentley Motors, Accenture, ASDA, BT Group, Castle Peak Group, Connected Places Catapult and Tetra Tech 

Follow We Are PoWEr and the Northern PoWEr Women Awards on social media (hashtag is #NPWAwards) for the latest updates and surprises leading up to the awards night itself.  

View the full list of finalists at: https://wearepower.net/awards/finalists 

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the trailblazers driving equality and progress. Tickets and event details are available at wearepower.net/awards.