The event, themed ‘Women in Sport’, featured an inspirational panel of elite athletes and sports professionals. Yvonne Harrison, CEO of Women in Football, chaired a thought-provoking discussion with former Lionesses Jill Scott MBE and Lindsay Johnson, professional golfer and broadcaster Sophie Walker, and British taekwondo athlete and Olympian Bianca Cook (née Walkden).
Jill Scott MBE, one of England’s most decorated footballers, played a crucial role in England’s UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 victory and earned over 150 international caps. Lindsay Johnson, a former England international defender, was instrumental in Everton’s FA Women’s Cup win and represented her country at UEFA Women’s EURO 2005 and the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Sophie Walker, a professional golfer and broadcaster, competed on the Ladies European Tour for over a decade, achieving multiple top-10 finishes before becoming a prominent golf analyst. Bianca Cook, a three-time Taekwondo World Champion and two-time Olympic bronze medallist, made history as the first athlete to win all four Grand Prix events in one season.
The panel shared their proudest moments, reflected on the progression of their sports, discussed challenges they had faced, and provided leadership insights. They also emphasised the importance of paving the way for future generations of female athletes.
Tracy Ellam, Operations Director for LSH Auto, said: “We are proud to once again sponsor the Women of the Year Awards in 2025. Building on the success of last year’s networking series - where we hosted three fantastic events - we were thrilled to see a record audience at our first event of the year. Championing female role models is at the heart of what we do, as we believe diversity drives innovation and strengthens collective success.”
The event provided a powerful platform to inspire and connect professionals, demonstrating what the business world can learn from these highly successful women in sport - particularly in leadership and self-belief.
Now in its 43rd year, the Women of the Year Awards - sponsored by Aldermore Bank, Freeths, Pertemps, Strategi Solutions, and LSH Auto - celebrate outstanding female role models across all areas of society and business. Nominations are open, and the winners will be announced at Manchester’s Etihad Stadium on Friday, 10th October, in an event hosting over 400 guests.
Women of the Year Awards Patron and the Founder of Miss Money Savvy, Emma Elston MBE, said: “LSH Auto once again exceeded expectations. They created an inspiring atmosphere that celebrated women in sport, bringing together an incredible panel and an engaged audience. The energy in the room was phenomenal.”
The networking event was sponsored by Miss Money Savvy, which partners with trusted companies to help customers find the best deals and the right providers for their household bills.