Do you know the Woman of the Year?

The Vitalise Women of the Year Awards launch this March, with nominations now open for these prestigious awards which recognise the achievements of women in business.

Last year’s ceremony saw Central News presenter Arti Halai host the event and celebrated fashion entrepreneur Karen Millen appear as a special guest speaker. The renowned Woman of Achievement Award went to 7/7 bombings survivor and London 2012 Paralympic athlete, Martine Wright.

The 2012 Business Woman of the Year prize went to UK Container Maintenance co-founder Emma Elston, who has grown her business into one of the largest container refurbishment companies in the world, refurbishing 75,000 containers per year.

Speaking of winning the award, Emma Elston remarked: “I couldn’t believe it was little old me who won. I’ve never been to university, but I think business is more about your spirit and what you bring to the table no matter how big or small your company is. It’s hard out there, but you just have to work hard and show a lot of determination. If you have an idea, you should explore it and get some advice from an expert. It could be the next big thing that makes billions. ”

The 2013 awards will be held on October 11th at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole. The awards are now accepting nominations in the Business Woman of the Year category.

Zalena Vandrewala, a specialist litigation solicitor from Freeth Cartwright’s Stoke office and Co-Director of the awards, commented:

“We are looking for business success stories from across the country. Do you know an inspirational woman who has excelled within the business environment? Then we want to know about it! We are always amazed at the breadth and diversity of talented women within business and we are determined to ensure that this year is no exception. That’s why we are looking for as many nominations as possible so that are expert judging panel can honour the widest range of individuals as possible.”

Past winners include figures such as sporting executive and star of TV’s The Apprentice, Karren Brady and Pall-Ex boss and Dragon’s Den star Hillary Devey, who is about to launch her own programme The Intern on Channel 4. By nominating successful women for the award, you could see them join this highly distinguished roll-call of talented women in business.

On behalf of key sponsor Freeth Cartwright LLP, Stoke Managing Partner Peter Gavin commented:

“Everyone at Freeth Cartwright is extremely excited about the 2013 Vitalise Women of the Year Luncheon and Awards. Last year, we were proud to sponsor the awards on their 30th anniversary and we are delighted to be continuing our association this year. The awards stand for everything that we value: commitment, dedication and achievement. They are a celebration of the very best business talent, providing recognition to some of the hardest-working and highest-achieving women in the country. The personnel from our Stoke office really get involved with the event, working hard to make it happen. We are proud to support them by providing sponsorship.”

Sponsors for the awards also include Dallas Burston Ashbourne Ltd, Freeth Cartwright LLP, British Airways and Hilton Birmingham Metropole.