Women Empowered Awards

THE PROJECT

A new ‘Women Empowered’ awards programme was set up in 2009 to identify outstanding South Asian women in Edinburgh and the Lothians, and an event was designed to showcase women’s success and inspire the next generation of strong female role models.

The awards event ‘Women Empowered’ was organised twice by NKS. The event recognised exceptional women of all ages who had demonstrated excellence, commitment and passion in diverse activities from business to the arts and in community and voluntary work in the region.

The awards competition was open to women resident in Edinburgh and the Lothians who were of Indian, Pakistani or Bangladeshi origin. Women were encouraged to nominate themselves or a friend, relative or colleague in one or more of the award categories.

THE VISION

“This was a unique opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of the many unsung heroines who represent strong role models for South Asian women in Scottish society. NKS wanted to encourage nominations from women from all walks of life who were making a positive difference every day to their own and other people’s lives. In the 19th Century the German feminist Louise Otto wrote: “The history of all times and of today especially, teaches that…women will be forgotten if they forget to think about themselves.” Sadly, that remains true in the 21st Century – too often the success of women in the community or in business, still goes unrecognised. NKS was determined not to forget and that’s what these awards were all about.”

IN THE LONG RUN

Nominations were sought in the following categories: Personal Achievement; Humanitarian; Mentor; Innovation and Dynamism; Entrepreneur; Arts & Culture. There was also a special award for Young Achiever (under the age of 30); a Lifetime Achievement Award; and an overall Special Award of the Year for the woman judged to have made the most outstanding contribution.

NKS celebrated women of achievements in the year 2009 and 2010.