TAYSIDE AND Angus ladies’ business network Women Ahead is gearing up for 2013 to be its busiest year yet, writes Philippa Stephen.
The body, which encourages and connects professionals in all walks of Tayside business, said it plans to build upon significant investment and promotion carried out during the last year.
“Women Ahead has been bolstered by the addition of a number of innovative new businesses into its membership ranks, which have not been put off by the current recession,” said Wendy Maltman, who chairs the 10-strong Women Ahead committee, while also owning and running her own business, the Malting House Graphic Design Studio.
The network hosts annual business awards to showcase the very best talent from Dundee and Angus, and this year the bumper awards will see the addition of two further award categories.
“I am particularly excited about the new Young Women of the Year Award giving an opportunity for the younger generation to be recognised for their achievements,” said Wendy.
The new award will be presented to an apprentice, trainee, graduate, employee or business owner who is under the age of 25, who best demonstrates ambition, energy, skill in her chosen profession and vision.
Another category, new for 2013, is the Independent Women of the Year award which will be presented to a director or sole trader who has the drive and ambition to determine the success and long-term viability of her business.
Six awards in total will give women from many different working backgrounds, including employees, business owners and voluntary sector workers, an opportunity to be recognised for their hard work and contribution to the local business community.
“We often find that women can be slow to put themselves forward for recognition, but I would encourage women from local businesses and organisations to apply, or be nominated by a colleague, so that they can be rewarded for the significant contribution they make to our local economy and communities,” said Wendy.