Celebration of Island's 'incredible' women returns for second year

More than 140 people gather for Elevate You Awards

The achievements of women in business across the Isle of Man were again celebrated at the Elevate You Awards this week (Thursday 17 September).

Now in its second year, the awards seek to 'lift our Island’s incredible women up and celebrate everything they have done'.

More than 140 people gathered at Woodbourne House in Douglas for an afternoon ceremony which saw four accolades presented.

The ceremony saw a panel discussion take place with two of last year’s winners - Alicia Woodward of Capital International and Catherine Davis of Rex Physiotherapy Services - who shared their experiences and insights as women in business with the audience and panel moderator Lisa Karran.

The awards were founded by local entrepreneur Louise Wheeler in 2025 after she had attended similar events in the UK.

She told Manx Radio it's been 'absolutely amazing' to see them go from strength to strength:

The awards received double the number of entries this year, and demand for tickets was described as 'astounding'.

Ultimately, Kate Parsons of Rehablab Physiotherapy took home 'Entrepreneur of the Year'; Megan Coulthurst from Embrace Wigs was awarded 'Solopreneur of the Year'; Jessica Welch of Space4Action was awarded 'Inspirational Woman of the Year' and Rebecca McNair from Isle Listen won 'Leader of the Year'.

(This year's winners)

Kate, Megan and Rebecca told Manx Radio they were 'overwhelmed' to have won, and encouraged anyone thinking of applying next year to take the jump:

New for 2026, the Inspirational Woman of the Year award was presented to Jessica Welch of Space4Action.

(The 'Inspirational Woman of the Year' award was presented to Jessica Welch of Space4Action)

Space4Action provides domestic abuse training that educates and raises awareness in the community.

The social enterprise was established by Jessica in her spare time, with her running the initiative alongside her full-time job.

She told Manx Radio it's all about empowering victims, their colleagues and their service providers, rather than being a 'knight in shining armour' for those facing domestic abuse:

Alongside the top winners, five women were also presented with Highly Commended: Bridget Carter from Bridge to Justice Limited; Dr Karen Wilson from Mannin Doctors; Hazel Stewart from Hansard Global; Siobhan Milnes from Institute of Directors; and Laura Stewart from Manx Care.

(This year's Highly Commended cohort with Louise)

It's hoped the event will return in 2027.