Nominations have opened for the 2023 Otago Inspirational Women Awards.
The awards form part of the Awards & Gala for Women’s Refuge Services, held for the first time last November, an event which aims to shine a light on family violence and raise money for Women’s Refuge and Central Lakes Family Services.
Last year, that event, which includes a fundraising auction, raised more than $30,000, with hopes that figure will be bettered this year.
In time, the goal is to raise enough money to provide a safe house for women in need in the Queenstown-Lakes.
Event organiser Julia Strelou says while the Inspirational Women Awards celebrate the achievements of incredible women throughout the region, by attending the gala event, people are supporting a much-needed cause.
‘‘It’s such a great synergy.
‘‘The refuges were absolutely blown away by the community’s support last year, and we are so excited for what this year’s event will bring.’’
Nominations opened on Wednesday, coinciding with International Women’s Day, in four categories — Inspirational Woman, Entrepreneurial Woman, Community Recognition, and Resilience.
Nominations close on May 15, via bit.ly/3YwimK5 — winners will be announced at the gala dinner on November 25.
