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Barking and Dagenham Council Celebrates Outstanding Local Women at Empowered Women Recognition Event

Barking and Dagenham Council proudly hosted an Empowered Women Recognition Event, honouring the exceptional achievements and inspiring contributions of women across the borough on Friday 4 April.

Held in the Mayors Parlour, Barking Town Hall, the event was a heartfelt celebration of resilience, leadership, and community spirit, highlighting the women who are making Barking and Dagenham a better place for all.

Councillor Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills & Aspiration, said: “Today we came together to recognise and honour the dedication, hard work, and inspiring contributions of women who have made a significant impact in Barking and Dagenham.

“The incredible women we’ve honoured today are proof that one person can create a ripple effect of positivity, strength, and change - many congratulations to them all. Let’s continue to lift each other up and work toward a brighter, more equal future for all in Barking and Dagenham.”

The judging panel - comprising councillors and community partners faced the difficult task of selecting winners and runners-up across eight categories:

  • Community Impact:
    Winner – Elevate Her UK
    Runner-up – Nimble Fingers Knitting Group
  • Entrepreneur of the Year:
    Winner – Sarah Kasule
    Runner-up – Dr Valeria Giannuzzi
  • Community Project of the Year:
    Winner – JDS Striving for Excellence
    Runner-up – Adana Women’s Support Group
  • Educator of the Year:
    Joint Winners – Saima Dushuk and Zara Muirhead
  • Health and Wellbeing Champion of the Year:
    Winner – Saleema Abdin
    Runner-up – Lauren Jennings
  • Woman of Courage:
    Winner – Ruqaiya Asim
    Runners-up – Nicky Chaplin and Natasha Briscoe
  • Jodie Chesney Young Community Champion of the Year:
    Winner – Daniela Miranda-Jorge
  • Lifetime Achievement Award (In Memory of Anne Estlea):
    Winner – Flutura Shega

The highlight of the afternoon was the announcement of the Barking and Dagenham Woman of the Year 2025, awarded to Ruqaiya Asim, in recognition of her extraordinary strength, compassion, and leadership. Ruqaiya’s story moved many in the room, as she took a moment to speak about her journey as an artist with visual impairment and her access needs, promoting inclusivity and awareness.

Residents can view a special Women’s Empowerment Month virtual recognition wall at: www.lbbd.gov.uk/womens-empowerment-month-recognition-wall