PoWEr Women Awards unveil 2026 finalists

One of Europe’s largest celebrations of gender equality is marking a significant anniversary as hundreds of changemakers from across the North of England prepare to come together to champion equity and inclusion.

Now entering its tenth year, the Northern PoWEr Women Awards has revealed its 2026 finalists and Game Changer lists, cementing its status as Europe’s biggest gender equality celebration.

Taking place on Thursday, March 12 at Manchester Central Convention Complex during International Women’s Day week, the awards will bring together more than 1000 leaders, advocates and allies from across the region.

This year’s ceremony is supported by co-headline partners Barclays and Bank of America, alongside Future List Game Changer partner AstraZeneca and category partners including Arcadis, Asda Property and Construction, BT Group, Connected Places Catapult, Gleeds, KTSL, London North Eastern Railway, Manchester Airports Group, Weightmans, MSP Global and Mace.

A record-breaking 1800 nominations were received for the milestone edition, with finalists selected by 90 independent judges across 12 award categories and three Game Changer lists.

Such scale reflects the depth and breadth of work taking place across the North to drive fairness, opportunity and inclusive growth.

Finalists represent sectors spanning business, technology, health, education, construction, manufacturing and the third sector, underscoring the diversity of leadership shaping the region’s future.

Those recognised include social entrepreneurs supporting survivors of modern slavery into employment, founders increasing representation in male-dominated industries, and leaders embedding inclusion within education and skills systems.

Returning for the tenth anniversary, the Game Changer lists shine a spotlight on individuals accelerating change beyond traditional awards categories.

Trailblazers advancing gender equality through influence and leadership feature on the PoWEr List, while the Future List highlights emerging leaders already delivering measurable impact.

Male allies actively championing equity and inclusion through their leadership and influence are also recognised through the Advocacy List.

Collectively, the lists celebrate almost 100 individuals whose work is shaping workplaces, communities and institutions across the North and beyond.

Simone Roche MBE, founder and chief executive of We Are PoWEr, said: “Reaching our tenth year is a poWErful moment for the Northern PoWEr Women Awards. 

“What began as a bold idea has become a movement that shines a light on those who are not only achieving success but actively using their influence to open doors for others. 

“The 2026 finalists reflect the very best of the North – courageous leaders, committed allies and organisations driving real, measurable change.”

Click here to see a complete list of the finalists.

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