"Proud to take a lead": How winning a Women's Recognition Award can impact you

Nominations for the Women's Recognition Awards 2025 are well underway, and we've seen so many people pay it forward by shining the spotlight on remarkable women and allies from across our industry.

If you've been nominated, you have until 27th June (one week after nominations close on June 20th) to complete the obligatory supporting application so that the judges can consider you for the shortlist, and ultimately for the win!

But why is the WRAs such an important award to win? What does it feel like to take home the trophy? And how should you approach your application?

Our 2024 winners shared with us their experiences, the influence that winning has had on their careers, businesses and industry impact - and even offered some advice for your applications...

"I still can't quite believe it - winning the Women in Management Award was a surreal and unforgettable moment. The women shortlisted were so inspiring that even when my name was announced, I thought there'd been a mistake! To be recognised among such talented and passionate women left me inspired.

"The experience has helped quiet my imposter syndrome and reminded me that the work I deeply care about really does make a difference. It's motivated me to keep pushing forward - from mentoring women to championing inclusion & diversity. I'm proud to take a lead.

"Thinking of applying? Just go for it. You're more ready - and more deserving - than you think."

- Gina Burrows, Lloyds Banking Group, Woman in Management winner 2024

"I was absolutely blown away and shocked. I felt valued as a protection specialist and recognised by my peers. It raised my profile in the industry and made me feel extremely proud of my own personal achievements.

"Be authentic, seek out others' opinions and guidance... don't be afraid and go for it!"

- Jen Carhart, HSBC Life, Woman in Protection winner 2024

"It was an incredibly proud and emotional moment. Being recognised for our work around mental health and inclusion meant so much to me and everyone at L&C as we work hard every day to make our culture more open, supportive, and stigma-free. It was a reminder of the effort we put into listening, learning, and making positive changes.

"The award shone a light on the importance of mental health advocacy in financial services. Internally, it gave our teams a real boost and reaffirmed our commitment to keeping well-being at the heart of our culture. Externally, it helped us start more conversations, connect with others doing brilliant work and inspire new initiatives across the business and industry. It wasn’t just a celebration - it was a springboard.

"Be authentic, be honest and don’t underestimate the power of your story. It’s not about having a polished list of achievements or perfect metrics - it’s about showing the heart behind what you do, the difference you’re making, and why it matters. Share what inspired you to champion mental health, the challenges you’ve faced along the way and how your work has created real change, even if it started small.

"As a WRA judge this year I am not just looking for perfect outcomes, I am looking for passion, persistence, and purpose. Talk about the conversations you’ve sparked, the people you’ve supported or the culture you’ve contributed to. Remember that by applying, you’re already leading by example. You’re giving visibility to an issue that still carries stigma and silence in many workplaces.

- Mark Harrington, L&C Mortgages, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Mental Health Champion winner 2024

"Absolutely amazing! I felt so proud of myself for achieving this and winning the award as I am very passionate about my job as a protection adviser. I felt it really gave me a confidence boost to push myself more with putting myself forward for awards and events.

"Go for it! If you believe you're worthy of the nomination and your colleagues do too, then get the application submitted because you just never know."

- Rachel Allison, Create Finance, Protection Adviser of the Year winner 2024

"Winning this team award was an incredible feeling for everyone. The business has grown and changed so much in such great ways and that is all down to the Roma people. To be recognised for equality and treating people well is incredibly humbling.

"Take your time to think about everything you have accomplished - more often than not, you will have achieved more than you think. Tell the judges all!"