The key to writing a strong nomination for the Norfolk Women’s Marketing Awards is understanding what each category is looking for. Until you’ve done that, it’s tricky to make your entry relevant. For 2025, we’re introducing three new categories and there’s one, in particular, that we anticipate may cause confusion.
Introducing “The Workplace” – which joins “The Ally” as our second award for businesses, rather than individuals. So, while both celebrate businesses that foster diversity and inclusion, they do so in different ways – let’s break it down…
The Workplace: Fostering an Inclusive Environment
The “Workplace” category is dedicated to companies that have made diversity, equity, and belonging integral to their corporate culture. These businesses don’t just talk about inclusion—they live it through progressive policies, initiatives, and a culture that supports and inspires every employee. For example, a company that has implemented flexible working hours for parents, launched mentorship programmes for underrepresented groups, or ensured pay equity across all levels would be a strong candidate for this award. The focus here is on creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to succeed.
Who Should Enter:
Businesses that have systematically embedded diversity and inclusion into their workplace practices and culture should consider entering this category. This is ideal for companies that can demonstrate tangible results from their efforts to create an equitable and supportive environment for all employees.
The Ally: Championing and Empowering Others
On the other hand, the “Ally” category recognises businesses that go beyond internal practices and actively work to uplift others, whether within their industry or community. These businesses are champions of change, seeking to make a broader impact by listening, learning, and advocating for those who might not have a voice. This might involve launching initiatives to support women in leadership, partnering with community organisations to provide educational resources, or advocating for industry-wide changes to improve access and inclusion.
Who Should Enter:
Businesses that have taken significant steps to empower and support others, often beyond their internal environment, should consider entering this category. Nominations can be submitted by the business itself or by individuals who have experienced the positive impact of the company’s efforts. This is for those who are not just inclusive within their walls but are also driving change in their broader networks or communities.
While both “The Workplace” and “The Ally” categories celebrate companies committed to diversity and inclusion, the key difference lies in the scope of their impact. “The Workplace” honours businesses excelling in creating an inclusive environment for their employees, while “The Ally” recognises those actively championing and empowering others outside their immediate business context. Understanding this distinction will help you choose the right category for your nomination, ensuring that the achievements of these businesses are appropriately recognised.
