Person With Purpose 

On 6th March 2025, the Northern PoWEr Women Awards will once again shine a spotlight on the trailblazers, changemakers, and pioneers driving progress across the North. As one of the most prestigious celebrations of gender equality and innovation, the awards recognise those making a lasting impact in their industries and communities. This year, we recognise the inspiring individuals nominated for the Person with Purpose category. This award honours those who are driven by a deep-rooted passion to create real change, improving the lives of individuals and communities through their work. These nominees go beyond ambition, they are catalysts for progress, dedicating their time, skills, and energy to making a tangible and lasting impact on society. Last year Deborah Lawson took home the award for her groundbreaking work as a disability advocate. Here’s a roundup of the pioneers nominated this year.  

Here’s a rundown of the 2025 Finalists: 

Public Service 

Qaisra Shahraz MBE JP FRSA 

Qaisra Shahraz MBE JP FRSA is a visionary leader dedicated to promoting social cohesion through the arts. As the founder of the award-winning Muslim Arts and Culture Festival (MACFEST), she has worked tirelessly to connect communities, challenge Islamophobia, and celebrate diversity. A renowned author, educationist, and interfaith ambassador, Qaisra has spent over 30 years fostering peace and inclusivity. MACFEST has become a landmark UK festival, enriching cultural institutions, engaging marginalised communities, and positively spotlighting Muslim heritage. Her initiatives, including the Muslim Women’s Arts Foundation and MACFEST Heritage Tours, continue to break barriers and empower voices. Recognised with numerous deserving prestigious awards, Qaisra’s impact is both local and global.  

Saira Ali 

Saira Ali is a trailblazing Landscape Architect and a champion for inclusivity, sustainability, and social impact. As one of the few Asian women leading a multidisciplinary team in local government, she has transformed public spaces into thriving, inclusive environments that prioritise gender equality, public health, and climate resilience. Her leadership at Bradford Council has driven award-winning regeneration projects, including the Make Space for Girls initiative, ensuring that urban design reflects the needs of diverse communities. Beyond her professional achievements, Saira is a dedicated mentor, charity ambassador, and international thought leader, shaping best practices in landscape architecture. With a career spanning nearly three decades, her innovative vision and commitment to driving meaningful change continue to inspire and influence the industry. 

Georgina Ralph 

Georgina Ralph is a passionate advocate for gender inclusion in the Fire Service, dedicating her career to increasing the representation and advancement of female firefighters. As co-chair of FireGIN, she has played a pivotal role in achieving White Ribbon accreditation, fostering safe spaces for women, and educating male colleagues to become allies. Recognising limited opportunities for women to attend national development events, George took the initiative to create an in-county development day, delivering an inspiring programme of workshops and training. Her efforts have not only led to the event becoming an annual fixture but have also sparked greater engagement and support across the organisation. Balancing her leadership role as a crew manager with tireless advocacy work, George continues to break barriers, champion inclusivity, and empower the next generation of female firefighters. 

Odeth Richardson 

Odeth Richardson is an inspiring leader and tireless advocate for race equality, serving as co-chair of Newcastle Hospitals’ Race Equality Staff Network since its inception over a decade ago. Passionate about creating lasting change, she fearlessly challenges inequalities, providing a safe and supportive space for hundreds of staff members. Alongside her demanding role as Head of Occupational Therapy, she also chairs the RCOT/BAOT council, serves as a charity trustee, and is a cultural ambassador. Odeth’s impact extends beyond policy, her poetry, featured in the NHS anthology After the Applause and showcased in a metro station, has inspired many. She embodies selflessness, empowerment, and mentorship, coaching colleagues to achieve their best while offering unwavering support. A true agent of change, Odeth’s dedication to making Newcastle Hospitals a better place for all is nothing short of extraordinary.