For the second time, the Merseyside Women of the Year Awards which took place at the Crowne Plaza and were organised by Jean Gadsby, Ellie Kerr and Elaine Owen, under the umbrella of Women In Business (NW).

They are so proud to have been able to keep such a wonderful event going when it looked as if it was not going to happen, until they stepped in. Now the event is run for women by women who understand just what it takes to challenge the status quo and make that difference. Together, they are passionate about enabling Merseyside’s unsung heroines to be recognised and their achievements loudly, very loudly celebrated. Ten wonderful finalists and overall Woman of the Year Lisa Collins were recognised for the amazing achievements at the event. The attendance by everyone on the day has helped provide the legacy that will last far beyond the celebrations and in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, will provide Bursary funding for students to help them achieve their degrees in their final year.

Jean Gadsby and Ellie Kerr handed over a cheque to Jo Ives and Deborah Pownall from LJMU’s Graduate Development Centre, who will with the help of the Student Bursary Team make the decision who will receive the awards in September when the new academic year starts. Jo and Deborah said they were thrilled to be able to help their students with such funding and it will make a huge difference to the students who are eligible for the award.

The Women in Business Team want the Awards to have a lasting legacy for future generations of Women to meet their achievements in their chosen career paths.

The event will take place again on FRIDAY 29TH JUNE 2012 and it will be a big one as it is the events 10th birthday. It is an afternoon, which is truly one of the most inspirational, uplifting and thought provoking events in the Merseyside calendar and it epitomises the “fabulousness” of women making huge differences in all areas of life.

Jean Gadsby and Ellie Kerr handed over a cheque to Jo Ives and Deborah Pownall from LJMU’s Graduate Development Centre.