Celebrating the resilience and brilliance of female entrepreneurs in challenging times
The finalists for the prestigious Best Businesswomen Awards 2025 have been revealed, highlighting the grit, innovation, and leadership of women who are redefining success in business.
In a year marked by economic shifts, technological disruption, and continued pressure on work-life balance, female entrepreneurs have once again stepped up with remarkable resilience. These women haven’t just survived; they’ve adapted, innovated, and thrived, often while navigating the additional demands that come with being women in business in 2025.
The judging panel was inspired by the level of tenacity, creativity, and strategic thinking demonstrated across all entries. Each finalist is an outstanding example of what it means to lead with both purpose and performance in today’s ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape.
The Best Businesswomen Awards were established to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women across all industries. These awards celebrate the achievements of women who are not only building successful businesses but also breaking down barriers, creating impact, and inspiring others to follow.
Local entrepreneur Leanne Simcoe, founder and CEO of Little Stars, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Charity Champion category.
Founded in 2020, Little Stars is a Shropshire-based children’s charity that provides essential items such as clothing, nappies, toiletries, and safe sleeping equipment to families facing hardship. Since its inception, the charity has supported thousands of children across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, working closely with referral partners to ensure help reaches those who need it most, when they need it most.
Leanne Simcoe said:
“I’m absolutely thrilled, and a little bit shocked, to be named a finalist for Charity Champion at the Best Businesswomen Awards.
Launching Little Stars five years ago from my living room and growing it into the charity it is today has been a true labour of love. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved – from our fantastic team and trustee board to the many babies and children in Shropshire we’ve supported.
This recognition is incredibly special, and I’m so grateful to be part of a community that’s shining a light on the work of women in business and the charity sector.”
Debbie Gilbert, founder of the Best Businesswomen Awards, said:
“This is the 11th year of these awards, and once again, we’ve seen an incredible calibre of entries. Despite the mounting pressures faced by women in business, from funding gaps to rising costs to the mental load of balancing life and leadership, these finalists have shown that female entrepreneurship is stronger than ever. Our judging panel was truly impressed by the standard of entries, and we’re proud to shine a light on these trailblazing women.”
The winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Night at the Daventry Court Hotel, Daventry, on 10th October 2025 when the Gold Winners in each category will be revealed.
Leanne Simcoe, founder and CEO of Little Stars.
