Too many brilliant women are still being overlooked – and time is running out to change that.
With just three weeks left before nominations close, the BPA Empowering Women Awards 2026 are entering their final stretch – and the message behind them feels more relevant than ever.
Across the UK, nominations are already rolling in for women making a serious impact in business, education, law, healthcare, public service, media, sport and community leadership. Some are well known. Many are not. That, in many ways, is the point -because while conversations around equality and representation have moved on, recognition still hasn’t caught up.
Too often, the women holding things together – building businesses, leading teams, mentoring others, serving communities and creating change – are still doing it without the visibility they deserve.
The BPA Empowering Women Awards, led by Asian Express, were created to challenge exactly that.
This isn’t just about celebrating polished profiles or senior titles. It is about spotlighting real impact – the women who are showing leadership in practice, often quietly, and often without the public credit.
And this year’s response has made one thing clear: there is no shortage of powerful stories.
From entrepreneurs and professionals to educators, creatives, campaigners and community champions, the 2026 nominations are already reflecting the depth of female talent shaping lives and industries across the country. The awards also continue to recognise that influence is not always loud. Some of the most important work is done behind the scenes – and those women deserve to be named too.
That is why the next three weeks matter.
Because recognition is not just a moment on stage. It sends a signal. It tells women their work is seen. It tells younger generations what leadership looks like. And it helps ensure the women changing our future are no longer missing from the conversation in the present.
Nominations for the BPA Empowering Women Awards 2026 close on Friday 15th May, with the awards taking place on 25 June 2026.
If there is a woman in your world whose contribution deserves to be recognised, now is the time to put her name forward. Self-nominations are also welcome.
Nominate here: https://businesspowerawards.co.uk/nominate-business-power-empowering-women/
