Malta’s first businesswoman awards launched for trailblazing female leaders
The President of Malta, MarieLouise Coleiro Preca presided over the launch of the Malta Businesswoman of the Year awards, of which she is patron. These awards, aimed at recognising and encouraging excellence among businesswomen in the country, are supported by HSBC Bank Malta plc.
The inaugural Malta Businesswoman of the Year awards will honour the accomplishments of women in two main categories: 1) Businesswoman of the Year, and 2) Young Businesswoman of the Year. A third recognition, Company Award for Excellence, will be presented to a company which demonstrates promotion of women in business.
Applications are being accepted from businesswomen who with their foresight, creativity, and talent have opened the path for other women in the country to take on the enduring femaleentrepreneurial spirit. Entry to the awards is free and can be made at www.mbwya.com.mt. Applications can be submitted until noon of 26 November.
Nominations will be judged by a panel comprised of some of Malta’s leading business personalities. A ceremony to announce the winners will be held at the Verdala Palace in February.
President Coleiro Preca said: “The Malta Businesswoman of the Year awards celebrate the dedication and commitment of women who have worked tirelessly breaking down barriers with their commitment, drive and innovation. These awards aim to shine a light on their remarkable achievements as well as to make them role models in society.”
Speaking at the launch event, Andrew Beane, CEO of HSBC Malta, said: “Today 60% of graduates from the University of Malta are female but only 5% of all Board positions in Malta’s listed companies are held by women, the lowest in the EU. I have always believed that diversity of thought is an essential component of business success and these statistics demonstrate that our economy cannot fully prosper and compete internationally over the long term unless the remarkable talent of businesswomen in Malta is truly set free. We are honoured that the President of Malta, who clearly is a role model and advocate of equality at the highest level of society, has graciously agreed to be the patron of these awards to recognise and encourage excellence among businesswomen in the country.”