Woman of Influence Awards recognises the remarkable accomplishments of women in Scotland whilst generating essential funds for Action for Children.
The event encompasses an engaging afternoon of entertainment, providing insights into the significant impact we have on children and families across the United Kingdom, as well as honouring outstanding women in their respective fields.
The 2025 event was generously sponsored by the Sir Reo Stakis Foundation.
We were delighted to welcome 400 guests to the Hilton Glasgow to celebrate the 2025 event, where we raised a record breaking £115,000.
The afternoon was hosted by the wonderful Jennifer Reoch, and fabulous auctioneering by Alex Fleming.
We highlighted our Moray Children’s Home, Rowan Lea, which is operated by Action for Children and dedicated to supporting young people in care.
Regardless of their circumstances, Action for Children is committed to providing support through nurturing and trauma-informed approaches. We want to make sure that the young people's experience of care resembles a family environment as much as possible.
Thanks to the generosity and support of our guests, we raised £13,200 to fund a trip to London to for eight young people living at Rowan Lea.
This five-day trip will include a visit to the Warner Brothers Studio: The Making of Harry Potter.
It is often easy to overlook the value of holidays and the cherished memories made with loved ones. Some of the young people supported by Action for Children have limited opportunities to enjoy such experiences, with many of them never having left their local town.
However, your support means we can help ensure that these young people have the chance to create joyful childhood memories filled with laughter and happiness.
We are pleased to announce our remarkable finalists for 2025. They are an exceptionally inspiring group of women. Thank you to Lenovo for sponsoring the main award category.
Jonquil accepting her award from WOI Chair Louise Mahon
Our 2025 winner; Jonquil Hackenberg, CEO of Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Jonquil has been the CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation since November 2024, with a mission to accelerate the Circular Economy, globally. She also serves as the Deputy Chair of the Design Council, focusing on 'Design for Planet' and preparing to host the World Design Congress in London in September 2025.
Finalist; Kerry Sharp, Director of Growth Investments, Scottish Enterprise
Kerry's leadership at Scottish Enterprise has been transformative, guiding the organisation in delivering start-to-scale services and managing an annual budget of £50 million to support high-growth, innovation-driven start-ups.
Finalist; Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson, Biocon Limited and Biocon Biologics Limited
Kiran has been recognised as one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People and is esteemed as a thought leader who has significantly contributed to her country's reputation by establishing a globally recognised biopharmaceutical company.
Finalist; Jasmin Paris MBE, Ultrarunning Sensation
Jasmin Paris, a mother, veterinarian, and research scientist, gained recognition in January 2019 for winning the 268-mile Montane Spine race, breaking the record by 12 hours. In March 2024, she made history as the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons, once considered impossible for women.
Dr Kate Cameron accepting her award from WOI Vice Chair Kerry Keenan
Dr. Kate Cameron is a leading scientist and entrepreneur in biotechnology, with a PhD from Edinburgh University and over 18 years of experience. She has managed large research projects, presented globally, and taught internationally. As the founder and CEO of Cytochroma, she is pioneering the development of stem cell-derived mini-organs from diverse male and female donors. Cytochroma’s mini hearts and livers aid in predicting drug safety and effectiveness while enhancing diversity in AI-driven drug discovery. Thank you to Nationwide for sponsoring this award.
Angel received received the accolade for her strength and determination, and for using her own journey to raise awareness for care experienced young people.
Talking about her advocacy work, Angel said:
"As someone with lived experience of the care system, I’m a strong believer in young people having a voice. [...] I hope when I move on from Action for Children, I can continue to make a difference to the next generation of young people coming into care."
For more information on the Woman of Influence Awards and how you can support, contact Nicole Tweeddale: [email protected]
To enquire for a table at the 2026 event
