Nominations open for Asian Women of Achievement Awards

Do you know of any Asian women who should be recognised and celebrated for their valuable contribution to society in their respective field?

Nominations are open for this year's Asian Women of Achievement Awards (AWA), which recognise and celebrate the achievements of women in a number of sectors including entrepreneurship, business, humanitarian and politics. This year sees two new categories added to the list of awards, including Asian women of achievement in sport and Asian Women of achievement Community Award.

AWA was founded in 1999 by author and entrepreneur Pinky Lilani OBE to celebrate the diverse cultures and talents in Britain's society.

She said,

“The Awards were created to identify and reward extraordinary Asian women who play a crucial role in enriching every corner of our society. Asian women living in Britain must feel empowered to believe that they too can make an impact on multicultural life. I urge all Asian women who are making a distinctive and innovative contribution in their field, or anyone who knows someone who is shining in their sector, to put themselves forward and be recognised."

Over the years, the awards have gained the support of influential individuals including patrons Cherie Blair QC and Princess Badiya bint El Hassan as well as key figures in government, business and the media. Last year's event was attended by Home Secretary Theresa May and entrepreneur James Caan. Previous winners at AWA include Eastenders actress Nina Wadia, BBC London newsreader Riz Lateef and Khizra Dhindsa, police sergeant, West Midlands Police.

The closing date for entries is 2nd March and the awards will take place at the Hilton hotel in London's Park Lane on 16th May.

For more information on how to enter the awards, visit, awa.realbusiness.co.uk