Winners from this year's TH Women's Awards
Women from across Tower Hamlets came together on 23 March for the annual Tower Hamlets Women’s Awards, an event dedicated to uplifting, celebrating and recognising the remarkable contributions women make to society.
Hosted by Tower Hamlets Council, the awards ceremony shines a spotlight on the borough’s unsung heroines.
The keynote address was delivered by Yasmin Ali, Head of Capital Delivery who led the multimillion-pound redevelopment of the former Royal London Hospital into the borough’s new Town Hall.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Yasmin shared how education transformed her life:
“I was born and raised in Tower Hamlets, and education became the key that opened doors to opportunities and helped me build a better life for myself and my family.
“When my dad passed away when I was just 11, I was the eldest of 4, my mother encouraged my siblings and me to learn, to explore, and to lift ourselves out of poverty through education. We all went on to earn degrees, a testament to her strength and belief in us.
“As a young widow, my mother was brave, resilient, and unwavering in her support.
“She helped me pursue my dreams, and because of her, I believe every woman should dream boldly and chase what may seem impossible.”
Eight awards were presented at the event.
Recognising outstanding contributions
Woman’s Trust, a specialist mental health charity supporting women and girls affected by domestic abuse, received the award for Gener Equity Champion of the Year.
The charity provides free counselling and therapy, helping women rebuild their confidence and sense of autonomy.
Their transformative work is reflected in outcomes, with 94% of service users reporting improved self esteem and 89% feeling more in control of their future.
One service user described the charity as:
“Has kept me sane, kept me safe, kept me from total isolation, reminded me how to take care of myself each week.”
Highly Commended: Manisha Devki Makwana‑Mehmi
Also recognised in this category was Manisha Devki Makwana‑Mehmi, celebrated for her tireless efforts encouraging young women to take part in shooting through the Royal Air Force Air Cadets in Mile End.
At just 25, Manisha has coached and mentored young women in a space where female representation has historically been low, supporting three cadets to reach top national competition rankings.
She said:
“I am so happy to achieve this recognition and would love to see more women take up senior positions in the Royal Air Force. I love mentoring young people and coaching and would encourage women and girls to push themselves out of their comfort zone and try out different sports and activities.”
Community Group of the Year – Winner: Khawlah’s Warriors
Women’s basketball initiative Khawlah’s Warriors was honoured for its role in increasing physical activity, improving mental wellbeing, building community bonds and reducing isolation among women in the borough.
Co‑founder Rukiyah Khatun said:
“What began as a safe space for women to engage in sport has grown into a supportive sisterhood that promotes physical wellbeing, confidence, leadership, and belonging.”
“By providing a welcoming, low‑cost, women‑led initiative, we have removed financial, cultural, and psychological barriers that often prevent participation.”
Young Woman of the Year – Mahfuza Chowdhury
Mahfuza Chowdhury was named Young Woman of the Year for her work as an independent domestic violence advocate, supporting women facing domestic abuse, coercive control, honour‑based violence, stalking and family breakdown.
Her nominee praised her extraordinary impact:
“Mahfuza is an exceptional young woman whose work has created meaningful and lasting change for women and girls in Tower Hamlets. Despite being under 30, she has already shown remarkable leadership, compassion, and resilience.”
Full List of Winners
Businessowner Excellence of the Year
- Winner: Lesley Green
- Highly Commended: Rukayat Alabi
Carer of the Year
- Winner: Lynnette Smith
- Highly Commended: Zarah Salam
Civic Contribution of the Year
Community Group of the Year
- Winner: Khawlah’s Warriors
- Highly Commended: Beautiful Ladies Group
- Highly Commended: Muhtarma Elderly Women’s Group, Maryam Centre
Gender Equity Champion of the Year
- Winner: Woman’s Trust
- Highly Commended: Manisha Devki Makwana‑Mehmi
Lifetime Achievement Award
- Winner: Lucky Nessa
- Highly Commended: Ferdous Ahmed
Sector Impact of the Year
- Winner: Prof. Yui Shikakura
- Highly Commended: Kate Richards-Gross (Central Foundation Girls' School)
Young Woman of the Year (aged under 30)
- Winner: Mahfuza Chowdhury
- Highly Commended: Diya Mary Selastin
Posted on Friday 27th March 2026