Women from across Northern Ireland will be recognised for extraordinary achievements in their roles as a mother, businesswoman, nurse, CEO, teacher, colleague or carer, at the inaugural Women in Business Inspiring Women Awards on Sunday 7th March.

The Awards, sponsored by Virgin Media Business are free to attend and will take place on a virtual platform, celebrating and recognising incredible women from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Formerly focused on celebrating women in the workplace, female entrepreneurs and business leaders, this year Women in Business have adapted their Awards campaign in light of the Covid–19 pandemic, to recognise the incredible stamina, passion, kindness, empathy, and innovation of NI women.

The categories for the Inspiring Women Awards include the Person of Purpose Award; Mentor of the Year Award; Agent of Change Award; Generosity of Spirit Award; Innovator of the Year Award.

Women in Business chief executive, Roseann Kelly, commented on the new Awards format for 2021; “We are delighted that this year’s Inspiring Women Awards will celebrate a variety of amazing women who have garnered great strength to support their colleagues or communities over the past year.

“Primarily a business network, the aim of Women in Business ordinarily is to celebrate and encourage women to achieve success in the workplace and in their roles as female business leaders and entrepreneurs. But over the past year we have appreciated more than ever the amazing achievements of women from all walks of life. Whether it’s an amazing mother, businesswoman, nurse, CEO, teacher, colleague or carer, I would warmly encourage women to nominate themselves, a peer, family member or colleague, so that we can celebrate together the inspiring women who have changed the lives of others for the better.”

Commenting on the Awards, Seamus McCorry, Regional Director & Head of Business Sales – Northern Ireland at Virgin Media, said: “We are proud to support this year’s Awards and celebrate NI’s inspiring women. During the pandemic, so many unsung heroes have gone the extra mile to make a lasting difference to people’s lives. This event will shine a spotlight on the women who have kept people safe, connected, and healthy under such demanding conditions. We look forward to hearing their stories and joining with Women in Business to thank them.”

Women in Business will announce the winner of each categories on their social media channels, ahead of the live event. A live vote during the virtual awards ceremony, combined with the judges scores will decide the overall Inspirational Woman of the Year Award.

The interactive, virtual awards ceremony will take place on Sunday 7th March from 7pm – 8pm, hosted by Pamela Ballantine and coinciding with the celebration of International Women’s Day on Monday 8th March.

Entries are now open. Nomination deadline is midnight Friday 26 February. For more information on award categories and entry forms visit www.womeninbusinessni.com.

Details on how to book complimentary tickets will be announced soon.