Who is the most inspiring woman you know? Nominations open for West Country Women Awards 2026

The search is officially on for the South West’s most impactful women as nominations open for the West Country Women Awards 2026.

Launched at a major International Women's Day event in Plymouth, the awards aim to shine a spotlight on women who are "making a difference" across the region. From grassroots community heroes and sporting icons to innovators in business and environmental campaigners, the awards seek to celebrate those whose work often goes under the radar.

Organisers are now calling on the public to nominate the friends, colleagues, and leaders who inspire them, ahead of a grand final set for November.

The launch took place before an audience of more than 250 women, allies, and friends who gathered to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026.

The conference, which followed the UN Women theme "Rights, Justice, Action," featured more than 20 speakers from sectors including policing, education, and charity.

Alexis Bowater OBE, founder of the West Country Women Awards, described the gathering as a catalyst for change.

"It was wonderful to see so many women in the room, hundreds of people coming together to share ideas, listen to each other and support one another," she said. "We talked extensively about ‘the ripple effect’ and I am looking forward very much to seeing what comes from the waves created on this day."

A key focus of the day was women’s safety and the reality of life in the public eye.

The "Justice" section of the event, hosted by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), heard a powerful testimony from Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Leaper. As the most senior female leader in Devon and Cornwall Police, ACC Leaper spoke publicly for the first time about being subjected to misogynistic and hateful social media comments.

The comments occurred after she shared vital public safety news regarding the disposal of an unexploded Second World War bomb in Exmouth.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, who also spoke at the event, said such comments have become a "normalised" but "appalling" part of society for women in leadership.

"I too have been at the brunt of unkind and appalling personal comments which male Police and Crime Commissioners will have never experienced or ever will," Ms. Hernandez said. "Misogyny has no place in society and neither does violence against women and girls."

The West Country Women Awards is a Community Interest Company (CIC) dedicated to elevating women across the South West. Beyond the annual awards ceremony, the organisation provides:

• Support and Training: Helping women develop professional skills.

• Networking: Connecting ambassadors and professionals across the region.

• Fundraising: Supporting local causes and community initiatives.

How to nominate

Nominations are now open for several categories, including:

• Business & Innovation

• Community Life

• Sport & Culture

• Environment

To nominate someone you know, visit the West Country Women Awards website .