ILKLEY Soroptimists are making a last call for entries in an initiative to find a local “superwoman” in Ilkley, Burley-in Wharfedale and Addingham.

The local group which is part of Soroptimists International, a global women's organisation inspiring action to transform the lives of women and girls, has teamed up with Ilkley Fairtrade Group to find stories of inspiring local women who have made a positive impact on their community.

The “superwoman” initiative was launched in February in preparation for International Women’s Day (8 March) which fell within Fairtrade Fortnight and tied in with the Fairtrade Foundation’s new ‘she deserves a living income’ campaign.

With just days before the closing date for applications on Friday, March 22, Ilkley Soroptimist President Joy Lynch said entries are arriving from across the Wharfe Valley, with every nomination offering an inspiring, engaging and empowering insight into the work of so many local women.

“Although International Women’s Day tied in perfectly with the launch of our superwoman awards, we feel very strongly that there is no time limit or restrictions to recognising the efforts and selfless achievements of the women living on our very doorstep,” said Joy.

“Through the Fairtrade initiative, women are leading the way in developing their communities and inspiring the next generation and from the stories we are reading, many local ladies are making a significant impact on lives whether socially, environmentally or economically. We are delighted to recognise and reward their selfless, impactful actions through our superwoman awards which will culminate with an event at Ilkley’s Clarke Foley Centre on 11 April.”

Superwoman entries will be judged by Suzanne Watson, managing director of Ilkley-based Approach PR and vice president of Bradford Chamber, Karen Palframan, Chair of Bradford Fairtrade zone and Chris Clarke, past president of Soroptimist International of Yorkshire.

Suzanne, a holder of Bradford’s Inspirational Woman of the Year title, said: “It’s a real privilege to be involved in an initiative which recognises the incredible work and commitments of so many local women and the nomination process created by Ilkley Soroptimists and Ilkley Fairtrade Group allows other people to show their appreciation for the tireless work of ladies who are making a difference to people’s lives.

“Inspirational women come in many guises and many would never think their actions worthy of recognition – so it’s down to us as their family, friends, colleagues and neighbours to take this wonderful opportunity to nominate our local superwomen and give them the chance to receive a collective show of appreciation from the people who truly recognise the difference they make to our lives.”

To nominate your superwoman, simply email soroptimistilkley@gmail.com with their name, relevant information and 500 words stating why your nominee is an inspiration. Entries can also be dropped off at Ilkley Library. Please include your name and your contact details. Closing date for entries is Friday, 22 March 2019 and the winner will be announced at an event at Ilkley’s Clarke Foley Centre on April 11 and will receive a Fairtrade hamper donated by local supermarkets.

For more information about the nominations process, events, Ilkley Soroptimists and Ilkley Fairtrade Group, email soroptimistilkley@gmail.com or ilkleyfairtradegroup@gmail.com