City women’sofficer askspeople to getnominating for last DCC awards

Mrs Boyd, Women’s Officer at the local authority, said: “The awards highlight the exceptional work of so many women in our city whose dedication often goes unrecognised.

“So much is being achieved by local women who contribute significantly to the local economy through business and enterprise, who work tirelessly to improve the areas where they live, and who give their time generously to enhancing the well being of others.

“I would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to nominate someone they feel deserves a special acknowledgement, and let them know they are valued for their work.”

Mayor of Londonderry, Brenda Stevenson, said: “The Women of the Year Awards provide the perfect opportunity to shine a light on the many caring, inspirational and successful women who work every day to make our city a better place to live.

“The awards acknowledge the invaluable services these women provide, and there are so many deserving candidates put forward each year.

“This is the last time that Derry City Council in its current form will host the awards within the city, and I would really encourage everyone to take this opportunity to reward our local female champions by supporting this event.”

Organised by the council’s Women’s Development section, the awards recognise the work and achievements of women of all ages in the community, arts, business, and caring for others on a daily basis, sacrificing their own time for the benefit of others.

Anyone whose work has made a significant impact over the past 12 months can be nominated, and this year there are 13 different categories covering a range of fields, as well as an overall Woman of the Year award.

This year’s awards features the following categories: Contribution to Women’s Community Development; Contribution to Community Relations; Contribution to Health; Contribution to Enterprise; Contribution to Community Safety; Contribution to Arts; Contribution to Formal/Informal Education; Contribution to the Older People; Contribution to Youth; Contribution to Childcare; Contribution to Caring; Young Women’s Award (must be aged 18 to 25 years old); Women living with a Disability.

An individual may only enter one category as regards to categories 1 to 13 inclusive but may also be involved in a nomination for Overall Winner.

Tickets for the event are priced at £15, which includes dinner and entertainment, and are available by contacting Joanna Boyd at Derry City Council (Tel: (028) 71365151) after the 13th February. Please note that tickets will be alloctated according to availability, with priority given to nominees and their guests.

The final deadline for nominations is 12 noon Friday January 30, and all applications should be submitted to Derry City Council’s Strand Road Offices 98 Strand Road, Derry, BT48 7NN.