Mentor of the Year 

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 honour the outstanding individuals nominated for the Mentor of the Year category. This award recognises those who have gone above and beyond to positively influence the success of others, providing unwavering guidance, support, and advocacy. Whether by nurturing talent, fostering confidence, or championing the values of mentorship beyond their usual responsibilities, these nominees have made a lasting impact, empowering others to thrive both personally and professionally. Our 2024 winner was Jenny Coyle, who dedicates her time to working with creatives, performers and musicians. Here’s a roundup of this year’s leading nominees. 

Here’s a rundown of the 2025 Finalists: 

Catherine Gladwyn 

Catherine Gladwyn’s journey from overcoming serious health challenges to empowering thousands of women is nothing short of extraordinary. After being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2012, she refused to let her condition define her, instead forging a new path as a successful Virtual Assistant. By 2017, having built a thriving business, Catherine realised her true purpose being to help other women break free from traditional employment and create flexible, fulfilling careers. Through her bestselling books, online courses, and unwavering support, she has transformed lives, giving countless women the confidence and practical skills to pursue self-employment. Described as inspiring, hilarious, and endlessly generous, Catherine not only teaches but uplifts, ensuring that no woman feels alone on her journey. Her impact is immeasurable, making her a truly deserving nominee for Mentor of the Year. 

Nina Lockwood 

Nina Lockwood is an outstanding mentor whose dedication to empowering others has significantly shaped careers across the recruitment industry and beyond. As the founder of Intuitive Talent Solutions, she leverages her own entrepreneurial journey to provide strategic guidance while championing diversity and inclusion. Nina’s mentorship goes beyond professional development, she invests deeply in the personal growth of her mentees, offering tailored support that helps them navigate challenges and reach their full potential. Her influence extends through key initiatives, including Women in Rail, Women in Transport, and Girls Out Loud, where she actively works to break down barriers for women in underrepresented sectors. Nina’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces and developing future leaders is invaluable as a mentor.  

Helen Tonks 

Helen Tonks MBE is an exceptional mentor whose dedication to empowering the next generation of women leaders has left a lasting impact. Recognised with an MBE for her contributions to business and leadership, Helen has been a guiding force for many, offering her time, wisdom, and unwavering support. As a university mentor, she provides thoughtful, hands-on guidance, helping individuals identify their strengths and navigate challenges with confidence. Her influence extends beyond one-on-one mentoring, as she actively builds networks, shares her expertise, and champions gender equality through initiatives like Power Collective. Helen’s commitment to fostering growth and inspiring future leaders continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she supports. 

Lizzie Iveson 

Lizzie Iveson is a passionate advocate for mentoring, driving the growth of the Barclays Mentoring Application and facilitating over 1,500 global mentor-mentee matchups. She actively supports colleagues, mentoring individuals at all career stages, with many achieving promotions and professional growth under her guidance. Beyond Barclays, she mentors through the Northern Power Women collective, building lasting connections and championing mentorship as a tool for empowerment. Recognised as a pillar of knowledge in this space, Lizzie’s dedication to fostering career development and creating opportunities has had a profound impact on individuals and the wider mentoring culture. 

Tarifa Simpson 

Tarifa Simpson has broken barriers throughout her career, from growing up in a deprived neighborhood to becoming a Partner at a top 10 global professional services firm. She built and led a thriving team at Mazars, now Forvis Mazars, and recently became Head of Due Diligence for the UK firm. Passionate about mentorship, she actively supports colleagues and professionals through coaching, sponsorship, and advocacy. Her global mentoring initiative has helped individuals navigate career transitions, with many achieving significant milestones. Tarifa’s commitment to mentoring extends beyond guidance, she fosters confidence, growth, and resilience, embodying the impact of strong role models. 

Paula Harrison 

Paula Harrison is a dedicated mentor who devotes her time to supporting others across multiple platforms. She mentors colleagues, clients, and individuals through the ADP list, offering guidance free of charge each week. Passionate about women in sport, she serves as assistant coach for Newcastle Women’s Gaelic football team, balancing this commitment through pregnancy and beyond. Paula also mentors through The Girls' Network, helping young women build confidence and resilience. Her tough love, encouragement, and leadership have inspired many, including a young mentee who went from doubting herself to coaching and empowering others in rugby. 

Rachel Brown 

Rachel Brown has been a passionate advocate for mentorship for decades, supporting individuals from young girls in outreach projects to aspiring EDI and HR leaders. Her commitment to mentorship goes far beyond her job, offering guidance to students, professionals, and those seeking personal and career growth. Through graduate development programmes, CIPD North East’s mentoring scheme, and her own network, Rachel uses her vast experience to uplift and empower others. Her selfless support has had a lasting impact, helping many take bold steps in their careers and personal development, always championing the true values of mentorship. 

Elizabeth Gibbison 

Elizabeth Gibbison has dedicated her career to breaking barriers in the legal profession, using her own lived experiences to mentor and uplift others. Despite facing significant personal challenges, she has become a specialist lawyer, a national volunteer for the Law Society, and a champion for accessibility and inclusion. Elizabeth mentors women from diverse backgrounds, including those who have experienced trauma, neurodiverse individuals, and aspiring lawyers from low socio-economic backgrounds. Through her guidance, many have gained confidence, advanced their careers, and found their voices in the legal industry. Her work continues to inspire and create lasting change.