UK Social Enterprise Awards 2024
Social Enterprise Women’s Champion
Sponsored by Bunzl.
58% of social enterprises have leadership teams that are at least half female. This award recognises a woman working in the senior leadership team of a social enterprise who represents excellence in her field of work. Find out who has made the shortlist below:
Elysha Paige – Bloody Good Employers
Elysha is Director of Bloody Good Employers who are revolutionising the way that people think about menstrual and gender equity at work. As a mentor and volunteer she has supported numerous women and marginalised people with their careers and access to resources to support survivors of gender-based violence. She lives with Adenomyosis – a menstrual health condition that causes severe pain and heavy bleeding which further fuels her ambition to create a more inclusive society for women and people who menstruate. @bloodygoodperiod
Viviene Bish-Bedeau – Construction and Engineering Opportunities (CEO)
Viviene Bish-Bedeau, Founder and Director of Construction and Engineering Opportunities (CEO), is a trailblazer in empowering disadvantaged youth and promoting diversity in the construction and engineering sectors. With a commitment to breaking down barriers, she provides mentorship, training, and support to individuals from all backgrounds. Her leadership and innovative programs exemplify her dedication to social change and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. @ceo_cic
Dee Murray – Menopause Experts Group
Dee Murray, CEO and Founder of Menopause Experts Group, is renowned for her groundbreaking work in menopause education and support. Her initiatives have empowered women globally, offering comprehensive training programs that reduce stigma and promote workplace equality. With a background in psychotherapy, Dee combines her expertise to advocate for mental and physical health during menopause. Her leadership and vision have made significant impacts, inspiring women and fostering diversity in over 20 countries.
Nicola Pollock – MorphFit Gentle Movement Project
Nicola has been central to the planning and delivery of MorphFit Gentle Movement’s projects from launch at the height of the pandemic. Nicola supported the development of sessions which centre around light to moderate chair-based, and where appropriate, standing exercises and lifestyle interventions. With a passion for working with people, Nicola has worked tirelessly to create sessions and adapt movements to ensure that programmes are accessible for all in need. @morphfitgentlemovement
Maggie Gordon-Walker – Mothers Uncovered (Livestock charity)
Maggie directs Mothers Uncovered, constantly generating ideas to reach out to mothers, and ways they can make money in these times of austerity. Social obstacles to a woman succeeding in the business and voluntary sector are well known – hence the importance of Maggie’s focus on the lived experience of mothers, especially their mental health. The context in which she is working is tough but Maggie remains undaunted, vibrant and vital. @mothers_uncovered
Hayley Hulme – Starts With You
Hayley is an exceptional leader renowned for her dedication, resilience, and innovation. She inspires and
motivates others, ensuring a collaborative and inclusive work environment that empowers individuals to
reach their full potential. Her innovative strategies have significantly influenced organisations and
industries. Committed to social responsibility, Hayley actively engages in sustainability, diversity, and
inclusion initiatives. Her mentorship has uplifted numerous women, making a lasting impact on their
careers. @startswithyoubolton
Paula Jennings – Stepping Stones
Paula joined Stepping Stones NI in 1998 when it was a small pilot project. She was determined from day one that people with learning disabilities should have the equal opportunity to gain skills, qualifications and employment. Paula’s vision was always very clear – people with disabilities and barriers to learning and employment can thrive if given the right support. Over the last 26 years, Paula has built a robust and successful organisation that now includes six social enterprises and four core services.
Jasmine Cannon-Ikurusi, The Sapphire Wellbeing and Employability Academy
Sapphire is a dedicated social enterprise focused on empowering marginalised and ethnic minority communities. Jasmine, CEO of Sapphire aged 30, has transformed countless lives through her dedication to empowering marginalised communities. Despite overcoming racism, dyslexia, autism, and dyspraxia, her unwavering commitment has fostered inclusion, economic growth, and mental wellbeing, making her a true champion for women and social justice. @scommunitygroup
Sarah Jordan – Y.O.U Underwear
Y.O.U Underwear is a multi-award-winning ethical business who make stylish, organic cotton underwear for men, women and girls. Sarah, a multi award-winning social entrepreneur, moved from the world of charity digital and tech to underwear in 2016. With previous experience including more than 25 years in senior leadership roles across the not-for-profit, commercial and publishing sectors, Sarah’s passion lies in empowering women and girls. A regular public speaker at universities and business start ups, Sarah is also Trustee of The Beam Foundation and is on a mission to inspire the next generation of social entrepreneurs. @youunderwearuk