Over 300 guests gathered at P&J Live on Friday, 14 November for the third annual BWC Aberdeen Athena Awards, a sell-out event recognising the exceptional achievements of women across Aberdeen City and Shire’s business community.
The
celebration began with a drinks reception, featuring bespoke cocktails and
Prosecco kindly sponsored by Revel Collective, the company behind Revolution
and Revolución de Cuba in Aberdeen followed by a superb two-course lunch
delivered by the talented P&J Live catering team. Guests were hosted by
compere Sarah Rochester and enjoyed live entertainment from Glitz Band,
rounding off an unforgettable afternoon of celebration, connection and
inspiration.
The
Athena Awards celebrate the women entrepreneurs, leaders and innovators who
continue to make a lasting impact across Aberdeen’s business landscape. By
recognising their accomplishments, the Awards aim to inspire others and
contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in business.
Congratulations
to this year’s winners.
The Rising Star Award -
Sponsored by Hall Morrice
Highly
commended: Eilidh Rankin from Hilton Aberdeen TECA
Winner:
Maya Vertigans from Planner Bee VA Services
Women in Finance Award - Sponsored by
Buchan Wealth Management
Winner:
Louise Smith from Hall Morrice LLP
Hair, Beauty and Fashion Award -
Sponsored by Bloom
Highly
Commended: Amanda Chappel from Tiger Lily Boutique
Winner:
Joy Kelikume Oziomaaka from Kelikume Fashion and Styling
Women in Law Award - Sponsored by Laurie
& Co
Winner:
Donna McKay from Brodies LLP
Health, Wellbeing and Lifestyle Award -
Sponsored by Acumen Financial Planning
Highly
Commended: Laura Paterson from Reform Physio & Pilates
Winner:
Shabnum Hanif from introspeXion
The Hospitality, Food,
Drink and Tourism Award
Winner:
Grace McDowell from Revel Collective
Women in Business Support and
Consultancy Award - Sponsored by DXD Media & Action Coach
Highly
Commended: Jennifer Markou from JM Virtual Business Solutions
Winner:
Nicola Davidson from The Success Formula
Women in PR, Marketing and
Communications Award - Sponsored by Prospect13
Winner:
Amanda Inglis from Due North Creative
Women in the 3rd Sector Award -
Sponsored by QA Vehicle Solutions
Highly
Commended: Zara Grant from Love Rara
Winner:
Phionna Mcinnes from WeToo
Inspirational Woman of the Year -
Sponsored by The Bia Partnership
Highly
Commended: Victoria Mutch from Style For Your Shape
Winner:
Christina Sutherland from GSR Nursing / GSR Training / GSR Occupational Health
Karen Smith, BWC Aberdeen Business Owner and host of the Athena Awards, said: “The 2025 Athena Awards were our biggest and best yet; a sell-out celebration that brought together over 300 people to honour the incredible women shaping Aberdeen’s business community. The atmosphere was absolutely electric, and I couldn’t be prouder of what this event has become.”
Special thanks were extended to the category and event sponsors, independent Athena Award judges, compere Sarah Rochester, photographer Iska Birnie, videographer Ian Thorn, and all those who contributed to the event’s success; including table favours from Revel Collective, floral arrangements by Karen McEwen and raffle prizes from Sarah Haran, Johnstons of Elgin, P&J Live, House of Colour, BLOOM, and many more. Proceeds from the raffle were donated to Aberdeen Cyrenians, the event’s chosen charity for 2025.
The Athena Award finalists and winners continue to inspire with their passion, resilience, and leadership; qualities that reflect the strength and vibrancy of Aberdeen’s business community.