For the past decade, the Rising Star Awards have celebrated the exceptional female talent pipeline below management level, recognising the future leaders and role models shaping industries across the UK and beyond. Since launching in 2015, these awards have showcased over 1,050 remarkable women and are proud to return this year to celebrate another 100 outstanding winners from 20 diverse industries.
Nominations are now open via an awards platform, which you can access through the Rising Stars’ website. Nominations will close after a seven week period on 03 March.
A shortlist of ten women from each industry category and ten from the Champion, Global Award for Achievement and Men for Gender Balance categories, alongside three shortlisted companies for the Company of the Year award, will be chosen by an esteemed panel of judges. Once the shortlist is announced, we will also open the public votes of support, which enables individuals to show their support for a specific shortlisted individual.
Our Champion award recognises the achievements of five senior individuals, male or female, who are actively supporting the female pipeline outside of their day job. Nominations for this award are individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to gender, e.g. HeForShe supporters, Network Leaders, Directors, MD’s or C-Suite individuals who are championing women either inside or outside their organisations.
Our Men for Gender Balance award recognises the achievements of five senior men who are championing women and gender balance either inside or outside their organisation. Nominees must be at least Director level (or equivalent) or above, must demonstrate that they have actively supported the female pipeline either through their current work role or external activities and must be working in the UK.
The Company of the Year award recognises the achievements of a company who can clearly demonstrate that they are actively supporting its female talent pipeline through their initiatives, training, development programmes and internal employee relations and diversity network groups.
The Global Award for Achievement category expands our search for global talent. This category is a female individual who works within any industry, outside of the UK, whose current position is below director level.
All winners will be announced on 04 June and will be invited to celebrate at a prestigious awards ceremony in July 2025.
This is your chance to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent, dedication, and achievements that often go unrecognised. Whether it’s celebrating an inspiring individual or a company leading the charge for equality, your nomination can make all the difference.
Visit the Rising Star Awards website to learn more and submit your nomination.
Together, let’s celebrate the leaders of tomorrow and the champions of today!
October
13/10/2025 - 17/10/2025 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
The ground-breaking nationwide celebration of women in technology returns, featuring a week of dynamic online and
The ground-breaking nationwide celebration of women in technology returns, featuring a week of dynamic online and in-person events. Focused on career growth, networking, and innovation, this event continues to champion equality and empower women in the tech industry.
WeAreTechWomen is proud to present the second annual UK Women in Tech Week, taking place from October 13th to 17th, once again aligning with Ada Lovelace Day. This nationwide initiative brings together a vibrant line-up of virtual and in-person events celebrating the impact of women across the tech industry.
In partnership with leading organisations and Women in Tech networks, the week will offer inspiring panels, practical workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. Through our website, attendees can easily book their spots for these events. Our master calendar for bookings will be released in the summer. Those who have registered their interest will receive priority booking.
Despite growing awareness, the sector still faces systemic challenges. Our upcoming Lovelace Report with Oliver Wyman has highlighted a number of issues around the broken systems that hinder the progression of women in the tech industry. Several reports over the past few years, including the Lovelace Report, cite that women are leaving the industry altogether. This talent drain is not only a loss of potential but is actively costing the UK economy billions of pounds each year.
With just 20% of the UK’s tech workforce made up of women—and with government commitments to scale the AI workforce—this is not the time to slow down. It’s time to step up.
For more information visit: women-in-tech-week.com
01nov09:0016:30KIN: Know. Inspire. Navigate | A Day for Women to Realign, Renew, and Rise
01/11/2025 09:00 - 16:30(GMT+00:00)
Henley Business School, Greenlands
Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3AU
Set on the tranquil banks of the River Thames, Henley’s historic Greenlands campus offers the perfect backdrop for a day of reflection, connection, and
Designed for early to mid-career women across industries who want practical tools they can use immediately, this one-day retreat follows the Kinspace KIN framework – Know, Inspire, Navigate – guiding you to:
This is not just a feel-good day. It’s sustainable learning – you will leave with your own action and implementation plan tailored to your life, so you can apply what you’ve learned immediately and keep building momentum long after the retreat.
In the afternoon, slow down and reconnect with your senses in a mindful pressed flower card crafting, writing to self and picture workshop. We’ll ask a few questions ahead of time so we can pair you by goals and stage, and tailor examples to your context. Then, step outdoors for a unique partner reflection in nature – partnering with both the landscape and each other to inspire deeper insight and grounded action.
To help you stay accountable and supported, you’ll have the option to join three monthly follow-up group sessions (at a separate price) designed to check in on your progress, troubleshoot challenges, and keep you moving towards your goals.
This is a confidential and supportive space with limited seats to ensure meaningful connection and participation.
Date: Saturday 1 November 2025
Time: 9:00 AM -4:30 PMT
Location: Henley Business School, Greenlands Henley-on-Thames
RG9 3AU
Price: £250 – Early Bird £200 until 10 September