Inspirational Women Awards
Because she deserves to be celebrated.
Nominations are now open for the Inspirational Women Awards 2026.
The nominations close at 11:59 pm, June 5th, 2026.
Help us celebrate the inspirational wāhine making a difference in our country by nominating them for theating them for Inspirational Women Awards 2026.
This event is about elevating and celebrating our wāhine, whilst raising funds for the Women’s Refuges of New Zealand.
You can nominate yourself or a woman you feel deserves recognition; when nominating someone other than yourself, please first seek their permission.
Nominations must be female (or identify as female), New Zealand citizens, or permanent residents. You can enter again if you were nominated or a finalist last year. Some categories are exclusive to women living in Otago, while others are national.
Our judging panel will assess all nominations, and finalists will be announced on this website, the Facebook page, and in the Mountain Scene on the week of July 13th, 2026.
The category winners will be announced at the gala event on November 21st at The QT, Queenstown.
QT Woman Of The Year Award (national)
She inspires with her leadership and influences her community as a female powerhouse of Aotearoa.
As a trailblazer in her field, she transcends the ordinary, making substantial contributions that leave an indelible mark on society. Her endeavours, whether in the arts, sciences, business, or social activism, reflect a commitment to excellence, innovation, and the upliftment of others.
This award recognises a woman whose actions and achievements shatter glass ceilings and pave the way for future generations. If you know a woman like this, nominate her for the QT Woman of the Year award.
Change Maker of the Year Award (national)
She ignites transformation, challenges conventions, and pioneers social change within her community. As a catalyst for progress, she tirelessly works to dismantle barriers, champion inclusivity, and advocate for justice. Her efforts are not just about addressing the issues of today but about reshaping the future.
This award celebrates a woman dedicated to making a significant impact, driving societal shifts, or empowering voices that have been marginalised.
If you know a woman whose relentless pursuit of change has inspired movements, uplifted communities, and rewritten narratives, nominate her for the Change-Maker of the Year award.
A Women’s Touch Inspirational Woman Award (Otago)
She's a woman who is inspiring the community and bringing about positive change.
This award recognises and acknowledges women who are role models and change-makers in Otago. We want to celebrate one exceptional woman's commitment, courage, and confidence.
If you know a woman like this, nominate her for the A Woman’s Touch Inspirational Women Award.
Sponsored by A Woman’s Touch Queenstown
Fowler Homes Entrepreneurial Woman Award (Otago)
She questions the status quo, seeks growth, and embraces challenges and opportunities.
She is the owner and director of her company in the Otago community.
The business can be a start-up, an established one, or an independent contractor.
This award celebrates a woman who has faced the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and whose business advocates for positive change.
If you know a woman like this, nominate her for the Fowler Homes Entrepreneurial Woman award.
Sponsored by Fowler Homes Queenstown
Ray White Community Woman Award (Otago)
She gives back to her community without asking for anything in return. She is an unsung hero who deserves recognition.
We want to give well-deserved recognition to a woman making our community a better place to live.
This award is for a woman who takes initiative and helps others through community projects.
If you know a woman like this, nominate her for the Ray White Community Woman Award.
Sponsored by Ray White Queenstown & Arrowtown
Mountain Scene & ODT Resilient Woman Award (Otago)
She has been through it all, and still, she stands strong.
She has experienced things you’d think would break her, yet she has carried on, giving back and showing kindness, even when the world has been hard on her.
She is a woman who has overcome adversity to get where she is today, and we salute her.
If you know a woman like this, a survivor, nominate her so we can show her we stand with her.
Nominate her for the Mountain Scene & ODT Resilience Award.
Sponsored by The Mountain Scene & Otago Daily Times