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The Women Who Thrive Awards Gala is a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the exceptional contributions of women in Dubai to society and business. Hosted on International Women’s Day, this gala shines a spotlight on trailblazing women who have made significant strides in their respective fields, serving as inspirations to many.
The evening consists of an awards ceremony with 13 awards in total, however, beyond the awards, the event fosters a sense of community, collaboration, and empowerment, bringing together a diverse group of attendees to revel in the accomplishments of these remarkable women and further the narrative of female empowerment in the region.
our winners

2024 woman who thrives award
Lian Maders
Over 15 years in the UAE & has become the go to person for all things legal. Recently became UAE certified in Anti Money Laundering & CFT compliance. Also runs a number of successful events whilst balancing being a mum.

Danielle Hall
2024 Woman to watch award
Danielle and her company Co-Living Legends Dubai provide women across Dubai with access to luxury shared apartments with rooms-for-rent. A unique organisation ensuring women have a choice in a safe, affordable, clean and comfortable living space.

Ilume Bridal Studio
The Brand to Watch Award
We are 4 Welsh women, mothers and business owners. On a mission to bring a fresh edge to Bridal in Dubai, we are bringing our 15 years of bridal and business management experience and joining together to create something special, completely confident to offer Dubai's brides an experience like no other.

Anum Mirza
Community Connection award
Anum Mirza, PepsiCo Key Account Manager at Ishida, is an expert in F&B automation. Passionate about diversity and inclusion she founded the UAE's first female jobseekers' network, WCGA, and hosts the "Playing The Next Level" podcast, fostering women’s growth in personal and professional spheres.

Lucy Bruce
The Green Impact Award
Co-founder of Home-Grown Children's Eco Nurseries Lucy Bruce is a devoted mother of three, teacher and activist, founder of Harmony House day-shelter for hundreds of destitute children in India, and co-founder of Home Grown Children's Eco Nurseries in U.A.E

Dr. Helena Taylor
The Health & Wellness Award
Dr. Helena Taylor is an accomplished gynaecologist with years of experience. Her clinic serves as a comprehensive healthcare solution, offering a holistic and modern approach to overall well-being of families. With a wealth of knowledge and medical expertise, she founded the clinic to provide superior care and guidance to her patients.

Sharon Missah
The Inclusion & Diversity Award
Sharon's mission is twofold. Firstly, she is determined to bring more diversity to the media industry, challenging the status quo and ensuring that underrepresented voices have a platform to be heard. Secondly, she is committed to fostering honest conversations on a wide range of educational and relevant topics, creating a community.

Tess Pereira:
The Recognition Award
Tess Pereira is an acclaimed Psychologist, Therapist, and Performance Coach. With an unwavering commitment to her client's success, Tess combines empathy with direct communication to empower individuals to overcome their limiting beliefs and transform their mindsets.

Hannah Connolley
Raising The Bar Award
Renowned CEO Hannah Connolley of Couture Events Worldwide, recognized for high-profile events, expands her influence with The WedEd. This groundbreaking platform empowers aspiring wedding professionals globally, reflecting her commitment to innovation and education.

Eve Mbaluka
The Difference Maker Award
A Passionate Altruist focused on changing the lives of the less fortunate, specifically women and children living in the slum communities in Kenya, by encouraging them, extending kindness to them, helping them to develop positivity, resilience, a can-do attitude and a hope for the future against all odds.

Kelly Hodgkin
The Inspire Excellence Award
Entrepreneur, Mentor, Investor, Company Director, and Brand Ambassador. Kelly is a big believer in being able to achieve anything with the right attitude. She has spoken openly about overcoming challenges in early childhood and how they instilled a fierce sense of independence.

Roman Wehbe
The Support HER Award
Roman Wehbe, alongside his beautiful wife Toni are the founders of Pro Physique Sports Services in Dubai and are on a mission to turn fitness goals into achievements. An esteemed instructor to Dubai's elite families, Roman co-founded Pro Physique not only to pursue his fitness aspirations but also to help others realise their dreams.

Aira Victoria Briones
The Authentic Leader Award
Aira, the Executive Pastry Chef and Head of Production of HERE-O Donuts and Coffee, is a renowned chef and a veteran for 15 years. Raised by a military background, she exhibits discipline, professionalism, and leadership. She manages to make donuts into a work of art and never fails to amaze her guests with her creativity and style.