The POW campaign has been recognised for its work with young people in Teesside
Power of Women (POW) has been named as a finalist in the Micro Organisation category at the 2026 Northern PoWEr Women Awards, which celebrate individuals and organisations driving equity, inclusion and social impact across the North.
The community interest company (CIC) – established following the publication of a report* which claimed that Middlesbrough was the “worst place for a girl to grow up” – has been recognised for its work to elevate aspirations, challenge gender stereotypes and build confidence and resilience in children and young people. Beyond its impactful Primary School Ambassador Programme, which engages children aged nine to 11, its reach extends to secondary schools, further education and the wider community through its popular women’s networking group.
Head of campaign and operations at POW, Sophie McKenna said: “Being named a finalist is incredibly meaningful for us because it recognises the voices, confidence and ambition of the young people we work with every day.
“Power of Women was created to challenge the idea that background or postcode should limit potential, and this recognition reflects the collective effort of our schools, partners and supporters who believe, as we do, that investing in girls and young people creates lasting change for communities across Teesside.”
On Thursday 12 March 2026, the Northern PoWEr Women Awards, will bring together over 1,000 influential leaders, organisations, entrepreneurs, changemakers and advocates from across the North to mark its milestone 10th year. Taking place in the week of International Women’s Day, Europe’s largest celebration of gender equality, they will shine a spotlight on the role models driving progress and building a fairer, more inclusive future.
This year’s finalists represent the full breadth of the North’s talent across business, technology, health, education, construction, professional services, manufacturing and the third sector. From frontline emergency services and grassroots community organisations to senior leaders shaping rail, infrastructure, health, technology and professional services, the 2026 entries reflect the scale, diversity and ambition of those creating change.
Simone Roche MBE, founder and CEO of We Are PoWEr, said: “Reaching our 10th year is a powerful moment for the Northern PoWEr Women Awards. What began as a bold idea has become a movement that shines a light on those who are not only achieving success but actively using their influence to open doors for others. The 2026 finalists reflect the very best of the North – courageous leaders, committed allies and organisations driving real, measurable change.”
A full list of finalists across all categories can be viewed at https://wearepower.net/awards/finalists
2026 partners include co-headline partners Bank of America and Barclays, Future List Game Changer partner AstraZeneca alongside category partners Arcadis, Asda Property and Construction, BT Group, Connected Places Catapult, Gleeds, KTSL, LNER, Manchester Airports Group and Weightmans.
For more information about POW, becoming a sponsor, the pupil ambassador programme or networking events, please visit https://powerofwomen.org.uk or email: hello@powerofwomen.org.uk
