We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Women-Space Leadership Award 2025, a prestigious accolade honouring the outstanding achievements of women leaders across Staff Development and Faculties in Higher Education.
This award, a collaboration between Women-Space and the Staff Development Forum (SDF), champions the vital role of women in shaping the future of our sector and advancing gender equality in leadership.
Building on the momentum of last year’s inspiring winners, the 2025 award continues to recognise women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact.
The stories of our previous awardees-marked by resilience, adaptability, and creativity-serve as a beacon for all, exemplifying the values that drive progress in challenging times.
Aligned with the SDF Festival 2025: Facing the Future, Shaping the Now
This year, the Women-Space Leadership Award is proudly aligned with the SDF Festival of Learning and Development 2025, themed “Facing the Future, Shaping the Now.” The virtual festival, taking place from 10th to 11th November (nationally) and 12th November (regionally), brings together learning and development professionals to explore the evolving landscape of work, leadership, and organisational development.
Award Launch and Key Dates
- Deadline: Friday 31st October 2025, 17:00 pm
- Award Announcements: Winners will be revealed on Monday 10th November during the SDF Festival by Professor Christina Hughes, Founder & CEO of Women-Space.
Who Can Be Nominated?
We welcome nominations for colleagues at all career stages-not just those in formal management roles-who demonstrate:
- Integrity, creativity, and bold leadership through change
- The ability to inspire and empower others
- A commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and growth
Our aim is for this award to serve as a catalyst, inspiring women to unlock their leadership potential and excel in their professional journeys.
How to Nominate
Full details about the award criteria, nomination process, and selection methodology are available below and on the SDF website and Women-Space channels. We encourage you to nominate exceptional women within or beyond your institution who embody the spirit of leadership excellence.
- Women-Space Leadership Award – Guidance Notes 2025
- Women-Space Leadership Award – Application Form 2025
Join Us in Shaping the Future
Help us spotlight the remarkable leadership of women in Higher Education. Share this opportunity, submit your nominations, and join us at the SDF Festival of Learning and Development 2025 as we celebrate those who are navigating-and shaping-the waves of change.
We look forward to your nominations and to seeing you at the Festival!