LJMU Alumna at Women of the Year Awards

June 2012

Afrah Qassim who studied a Diploma in Youth and Community Studies (1998) was a finalist at the Merseyside Women of the Year awards on Friday 29^th June at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

The awards ceremony, which celebrates women’s achievements is the biggest event of the year for Women on Merseyside.

Afrah was nominated as a finalist for her work to help those affected by forced marriage and so-called ‘honour based violence’. Afrah has made an outstanding contribution to protecting some of the most vulnerable and marginalised women in our local communities. 

While she didn't win the coveted 'Women of the Year' Award, Afrah did take home with her the 2012 Humanitarian Award.

A Community Development Worker with Liverpool Primary Care Trust she has championed the needs of this group. Afrah is described as truly exceptional with the ability “to break down barriers whether they are social, cultural or institutional, in order to instigate positive change”.

Also in attendance at the awards ceremony were 2012 graduates Paula Speers (Primary and Secondary Education in Science) and Jodie Marlow (Architectural Technology) who have been the recipients of a financial bursary from Women in Business during their final year of study.

LJMU Alumna Michelle Paton-Watson, member of staff Leigh Best and Honorary Fellow Norah Button were also present at the awards ceremony as nominees:

Michelle, who graduated with a Health Degree in 2009 was nominated in the Caring Category for her work helping people suffering from anxiety and depression. Michelle has helped over 500 people in the last year supporting them back into work to help their recovery.

Leigh, who is a Teaching Support Assistant in the School of Natural Sciences and Psychology was nominated because "she has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and provide information and support to anyone with an eating disorder, to Healthcare Professionals, and also the Parents and Carers of sufferers." Leigh was nominated for the 2012 Social Impact Award.

Norah was awarded an Honorary Fellowship in 2010 and was nominated for her role in founding and running the Liverpool Theatre School. The School is recognised as being one of the top 18 Musical Theatre Schools in the Country, enabling it to provide the coveted Dance and Drama Awards to support students with funding during their studies. Norah was presented the 2012 Learning Award by Deborah Pownall, Employer and Alumni Engagement Manager at LJMU.

To find out more about the Women in Business initiative, visit their website at http://www.womeninbusiness.co.uk/