AMANDA WAKELEY ANNOUNCED AS KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT WIB AWARDS
BRITISH FASHION DESIGNER Amanda Wakeley has been unveiled as guest speaker at the fifth annual Women in Business Awards.
Since the launch of her signature label in 1990, Amanda Wakeley OBE has developed an international reputation for designing stylish, luxury womenswear and accessories, winning awards for her creations in the process and gaining an army of A-list clientele.
Having won the Glamour British Fashion Award three times, she regularly dresses some of the world’s most glamorous and famous women. She’s also had the privilege of dressing many members of the Royal families, including The Duchess of Cambridge, Queen Rania of Jordan and the late Diana, Princess of Wales.
Held on 19th November at the Culloden Estate & Spa, and compered by television presenter Pamela Ballantine, the Women in Business Awards will bring the cream of Northern Ireland’s professional community together to celebrate the hard work and achievements of local businesswomen who make a valuable contribution to our economy.
Commenting ahead of the event, Amanda Wakeley OBE said; “I am very much looking forward to speaking at this year’s Women in Business Awards, addressing a truly diverse audience from start-ups and sole traders to established multi-disciplinary businesses.
“As a self-trained designer selling my first fashion creations to school friends and beginning my collection in a small studio in Chelsea 25 years ago, to more recently creating a ‘Lifestyle Luxury’ brand anchored by a fabulous store on Albemarle Street in Mayfair, the collection comprises a strong and rapidly growing presence in daywear, spanning flawless tailoring, luxury sportswear, sumptuous cashmeres and an expanding line of statement accessories and fine jewellery.
“I hope to share with guests the benefit of my experiences - the highs and the lows – and reflect in a constructive manner on all the challenges I faced, and continue to face, both building and running a business.”
Roseann Kelly, Chief Executive of Women in Business said; “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to confirm Amanda Wakelely OBE as the keynote speaker.
“Not only is Amanda first and foremost a globally recognised fashion designer, but she is also an extremely shrewd businesswoman who has experienced first-hand the harsh realities but also tremendous rewards of running a hugely successful business. I’m sure she will be a great inspiration to all those attending the Awards.”
Roseann added; “In addition to hearing from our keynote speaker, guests will enjoy a sparkling reception, a magnificent four-course meal, prestigious awards ceremony and after-dinner entertainment.”
Tickets for the Women in Business Awards ceremony are available to buy online at womeninbusinessni.com with discounts available for members.
The closing date for entry is noon on Friday 2 October. Entries can be made via the Women in Business website.
Award categories are Young Business Woman of the Year, Best in Professional Services, Advancing Diversity in the Workplace, Best New Start-Up, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Best Marketing Campaign, Outstanding Management / Leadership, Best Customer Services, Best Small Business, Excellence in IT, Best Exporter. There will be an extra award on the night for Outstanding Business Woman of the Year as voted for by the judges.
Sponsors and partners of the Women in Business Awards 2015 include the Irish News, Ulster Bank, Q Radio, Department for Employment and Learning, Equality Commission, JC Decaux, Deloitte, Belfast City Council, John McKee Solicitors and Vistage.