Welcome to your digital home for the stories and successes of women across our vibrant region. We are more than a publication; we are a growing movement dedicated to amplifying the voices of the trailblazers and quiet achievers who make our corner of the world so unique.
From our deep dive into sustainable rural entrepreneurship to our spotlight on local artisans, it’s all about community and connection. In every story, we’re exploring how we can support one another in a digital age while staying firmly rooted in the landscape we call home. Whether you’re a remote founder or a traditional maker, you’ll find a sisterhood here that truly understands the balance of modern ambition and rural life.
We hope these stories inspire you to take a breath, grab a coffee, and celebrate the incredible community we’re building together. Dive in today and discover how we are weaving a stronger, more sustainable future for the West Country, one story at a time.
Revolutionising Care in the South West In the complex landscape of modern healthcare, “equity” is often used as a buzzword. But for Deborah O’Nyons and the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ICB, it is a lived mission. This year, the healthcare community celebrates Deborah’s win in the Diversity & Equality category—a recognition of her…
In the year since I spoke with nominees at the West Country Women’s Awards in the fabulous Saunton Sands Hotel, much has changed. I have completed my exams, and my Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, launching my own business as a self-employed, Financial Planning Consultant with Quilter Financial Advisers. I have also been on a…
In the fast-paced world of higher education administration, it takes a rare blend of academic rigor and operational excellence to stand out. For Honor Lovell, a Team Leader and Level 6 Degree Apprentice at the University of Exeter, that balance hasn’t just been achieved—it’s been mastered. Recently crowned Apprentice of the Year, Honor’s journey is…
In the loud, often overwhelming world of business networking, Clare Farthing has built a sanctuary. The owner of Inspiring Success was recently honored with the Best Supporting Act Award, a recognition of her transformative work in fostering a community where “quiet” doesn’t mean “silent.” Through her creation of the South Somerset Meetups, Clare has redefined…
In the urgent mission to end Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), Rebecca Hewitt is proving that systemic change requires more than just policy—it requires a radical, proactive, and compassionate approach. Representing the South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership and Teignbridge District Council, Rebecca was recently presented with the Combatting Violence Against Women and…
In the heart of Wellington, a transformation is taking place, and at the center of it is Fiona Mahoney. The CEO and Founder of Reminiscence Learning was recently honored with The Community Award, a fitting tribute to over two decades of tireless dedication to those living with dementia and their families. An Occupational Therapist by…
Stiltskin Creative Arts & Theatre Co., a beloved local institution that has brought joy to children and families for 25 years, is facing a significant challenge after severe storm damage jeopardised its future. In December, Storm Darragh’s powerful 90mph winds devastated the company’s Big Top Theatre Tent, a crucial venue that would have more than…
BASICS Devon, a volunteer-driven charity, is dedicated to providing crucial pre-hospital emergency care across Devon, one of the UK’s most rural counties. Operating 24/7, the charity focuses on two key areas: responding to medical and trauma emergencies, and delivering vital health education. Working in partnership with the South Western Ambulance Service, BASICS Devon’s team of…
Georgia’s Voice, a charity dedicated to preventing suicide and supporting young women aged 18-25 in Cornwall, has launched its new hub, Chy at the Village, in Redruth. The hub, located within the Village Kitchen at the Gateway Business Centre, Barncoose, offers a safe and welcoming space for young women to connect, find support, and access…
Join West Country Women at the Crowne Plaza Plymouth on 7th March 2025 for a powerful celebration of International Women’s Day! We’re bringing together inspiring speakers, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities to promote equality and inspire change for women everywhere. This year’s event features an incredible line-up of speakers, including Hannah Shead from Trevi,…
Over 300 young women from schools and colleges across Plymouth visited the Tamar Bridge last week for the Women in STEM ‘Engineering Her Future’ event. The vent was organised by us and our Discovery College, in conjunction with Tamar Crossings. The event brought together engineering companies from across the region as well as inspiring women…
Plymouth-based charity, Ahimsa, is providing a vital service for individuals in Devon and Cornwall who want to address their abusive behaviours within intimate relationships. With over 25 years of experience, Ahimsa offers a specialist programme designed to challenge and support perpetrators of domestic violence and abuse, helping them to develop non-violent and respectful relationship skills.…
Home Park Stadium, the hallowed ground of Plymouth Argyle, is set to transform into a vibrant hub of musical energy this coming May, hosting three back-to-back events that promise to electrify the city. Forget the roar of the crowd cheering on the Pilgrims; this time, the stadium will reverberate with the sounds of indie anthems,…
Nestled in the picturesque Cornish countryside near Plymouth, Devon, the China Fleet Country Club offers more than just spa days and wedding packages. For those seeking a dose of outdoor fun and friendly competition, their Woodland Adventure Golf course provides an enchanting escape into nature. This isn’t your average mini-golf experience. Forget the garish windmills…
In the heart of South Devon, a unique social enterprise is weaving together the threads of ancient indigenous wisdom and the vibrant energy of local schoolchildren. Tribal Songs, founded by the passionate Tina Antonio, is on a mission to cultivate a deeper connection with nature, community, and mental wellbeing, all while celebrating the rich tapestry…
In the often-complex world of mortgages, finding a trusted and reliable advisor can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter The Mortgage Cube, a company dedicated to simplifying the home buying journey for individuals across the UK. With a focus on customer-centric advice and a commitment to finding the most suitable mortgage…
From apprenticeships to university-level degrees, South Devon College is empowering individuals and shaping the future of the region. Nestled in the heart of Torbay, South Devon College stands as a testament to the power of education and skills development. For years, the college has been a vital resource for the community, providing a diverse range…
Planning a holiday can be exciting, but the endless research, comparing deals, and coordinating logistics can quickly become overwhelming. What if you could hand over the reins to a travel expert who understands your needs and crafts the perfect getaway, leaving you free to simply relax and enjoy the anticipation? Meet Tess Stuber, your local,…
The award-winning Executive Director of Taunton’s Brewhouse Theatre enjoyed a trip to the Houses of Parliament as part of her prize – and she met up with local MP, Gideon Amos. Vickie Robbins won the Women in Arts and Culture category in the 2024 West Country Women Awards. She said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit…
Winners of the 2024 West Country Women Awards were announced at a Grand Ceremony and Dinner at the Crowne Plaza in Plymouth on 28th November 2024. WINNERS of the West Country Women Awards were announced at a sold-out glittering ceremony at the Crowne Plaza in Plymouth this week. More than 360 guests, finalists, and sponsors…
Some of the West Country Women Winners went to Westminster yesterday. They were invited on a guided tour and then the opportunity to meet with some amazing female MPs at Portcullis House! A special thank you to everyone who was involved in making this happen! Enormous thanks to Sir Gary Streeter, Rebecca Smith and everyone in…
West Country Women Awards are pleased to announce today, that for the third year in a row, the Devon & Cornwall Police & Crime Commissioner has agreed to sponsor the Combatting Violence Against Women and Girls category. This award is about recognising the innovative and challenging work making our society safer for everyone. It is to…
We have been taking your feedback on board and have devised a new format for our newsletters. Our new weekly newsletter linking you to our latest events timeline, sponsors, directory listings and showcasing West Country Women in a quick-read format – dropping into your email at 12 on Fridays! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay…
We are planning for 2024 and are so excited for the year ahead! We have some wonderful events coming up that we are delighted to be able to announce already. The team have been brainstorming and putting together an exciting timeline of get togethers that we know you’ll love! 💛 Additionally, we are thrilled to announce our annual International Women’s…
We are very happy to be supported by Cornwall Chamber of Commerce this year! Do you know a West Country Woman from #Cornwall? Nominate her here! There’s plenty of time and plenty of categories! 🙌🏻
“Ian McFadzen at Plymouth Science Park said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Women in Health Award at the inaugural West Country Women Awards, recognising the achievements of women across the South West. It is vital that we support and celebrate women working across all sectors and in particular the healthcare sector; from health technologies and manufacturing,…
Waaaahoooo! – We’re more than half way there! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 We have a new awards night sponsor who has pushed us over the half way mark of our Crowdfunder for the West Country Women Awards! 🤩 Thank you Princess Yachts for supporting as an Awards Night Sponsor! You Legends!🛥 🛥🛥 Brilliant support for West Country Women!…
Great great news! 📣 We have a new West Country Women Awards Category to announce: The Diversity & Equality Category is sponsored by The Plymouth Charter. This takes our @Crowdfunder to 63% of target! We are thrilled to have the team on board – THANK YOU! 🙌🏻 Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and…
Good morning West Country Women Awards Followers! We’ve had some fantastic conversations over the last couple of days, and we are thrilled to announce another Awards Night supporter! Hoare Lea will be supporting us at the West Country Women Awards Roll up, roll up – who else wants to join the party? The more the…
We are being bombarded with so much support – It’s BRILLIANT! Thank you @SouthwestBoutiqueEvents for your support and help, lovely Leanne and her team will be dressing the room for the Grand Final We’re looking forward to visiting you soon! Thank you
The historic stones of Royal William Yard’s Brewhouse are home to a fresh aroma this week. Nestled within Arcade—the Yard’s burgeoning independent hub—DockSide Coffee Bar officially opens its doors this Saturday, December 20, marking the debut of Plymouth’s newest waterfront retreat. At the helm is 21-year-old Millie Reynolds, an entrepreneur whose age belies a decade…
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Plymouth, a city steeped in maritime history and modern energy, lies the Leonardo Hotel Plymouth – a premier destination not just for comfortable stays, but for hosting impactful and memorable events. Whether you’re planning a crucial team meeting, an engaging recruitment day, a morale-boosting away day, or a polished…
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge. That’s where The Vitality Store steps in, offering a convenient and reliable online destination for high-quality supplements and nutrition products, all designed to support your fitness and wellbeing goals. Recently relaunched with a focus on the popular Applied Nutrition range, The Vitality Store…
As the UK increasingly embraces renewable energy, the responsible disposal and recycling of solar panels has become a critical concern. Solar Recycling Solutions South West (SRS), a division of the UBH Group, is at the forefront of this vital industry, providing the UK’s only truly dedicated solar panel recycling solution. With over 25 years of…
In a world where beauty meets ethics, Saorsa Cosmetics emerges as a beacon of conscious luxury, offering a tanning experience that’s as kind to your skin as it is to the planet. Founded by the visionary Jennifer Bòidheach, a true tan specialist, Saorsa is more than just a brand; it’s a testament to resilience, passion,…
In the race to achieve Net Zero, the renewable energy, cleantech, and utilities sectors are at the forefront of global change. But even the most innovative technologies require exceptional talent to realise their potential. Enter Renewable Talent Partners (RTP), a specialist executive recruitment company that’s not just filling positions, but building the teams that will…
The energy at the Westpoint Arena in Exeter was nothing short of electric this past Wednesday, as the region’s professional community gathered for the South West’s biggest business event Business Fest South West . Invited by the organisers at Four Front Events, our team arrived ready to dive into the fastest-growing business community in the…
Our friends at Bovey Castle, a stunning venue and valued sponsor of the West Country Women Awards, are setting the stage for a spectacular culinary showdown that promises to be a true blockbuster event! The highly anticipated Battle of Eden returns for 2026 with a dazzling theme: ‘A Night at the Movies’, on Friday 27th…
🌟 Join us for a day of fun, excitement, and fundraising! 🌟 Whether you’re looking to unwind with a relaxing afternoon tea, try your hand at archery and rifle shooting, or compete in a balloon squeeze challenge, a ‘dress up’ 100 metres, or an Egg and Spoon Race with a Twist (extra points for deviousness and creative cheating –…
We’re excited to announce that the West Country Women Awards CIC is proudly supporting Business Fest South West 2025, the South West BIGGEST, BEST and MOST EXCITING business event, it’s taking place on Wednesday 2nd April 2025 at Westpoint Exeter. We’re even more thrilled that our very own Alexis Bowater OBE will be joining the event as…
The chilling tale of Sweeney Todd, a dark masterpiece by Stephen Sondheim (from an adaptation by Christopher Bond), found new life in the hands of Plymouth Performing Arts Academy’s (PPAA) Ensemble. This Saturday, at Lipson Co-operative Academy, these young performers delivered a production of “Sweeney Todd: School Edition” that was nothing short of extraordinary, proving…
The former champion swimmer and prominent women’s rights campaigner, Sharron Davies MBE, has traded her lane lines for the crimson seats of the House of Lords, following her nomination as a Conservative peer. Plymouth-born Olympian Sharron Davies, a familiar face in the world of competitive swimming and sports commentary, is embarking on a new chapter in…
The West Country once again proved to be a powerhouse of female talent, leadership, and resilience as the West Country Women Awards 2025 celebrated its most successful year yet. On a glittering night at the Crowne Plaza, Plymouth, on November 28, 2025, a sold-out audience cheered on 21 exceptional women who are transforming their communities…
Feeling like your confidence could use a little polish? Ready to embrace a bolder, braver, and more brilliant version of yourself? Then mark your calendars, because the West Country Women Awards, Recognition & Training is hosting an exclusive Empowerment Boost Session on November 14th from 12pm to 2pm GMT. This isn’t just another online meeting;…
West Country Drainage Services Ltd, a family-run firm based in Bridgwater, Somerset, is celebrating major recognition after being named a finalist in multiple categories across two prestigious regional and national awards. The company’s achievements are seen as a “huge testimony” to their commitment to service and sustainability. National Drainage Awards Recognition The firm has been…
Two exceptional leaders from CareYourWay, a family-run home care provider based in Totnes, have been announced as finalists in the prestigious 2025 West Country Women Awards. Sarah Sabater (CEO and Founder) and Anna Potgieter (Head of Brand and Marketing) have each secured a top-four spot in their respective categories, chosen from thousands of nominees across the region. Their nominations highlight both individual excellence and the…
A Somerset woman who runs a business near Taunton, Emma Cornish of Elite Equine Care, has earned a coveted spot as a finalist in the West Country Women Awards 2025 for Small Business of the Year. Based in Fivehead, Emma launched Elite Equine Care in March 2022 and has since significantly expanded both her business…
