Celebrating Digital Women Innovators of the Year

Jun 19

Digital Women Innovator of the Year

The Digital Women Innovator of the Year Award honors women who have harnessed the latest in digital and technology over the past year, demonstrating innovation in their fields. These awards celebrate those who are not only recognising and seizing new opportunities in the digital world but are also engaging in continuous innovation, adaptation, and learning. Our finalists have acted boldly, without being constrained by current resources, and have maintained accountability to their communities and the outcomes they create. Join us in celebrating these trailblazing women.

Emma Degnan - Thermo Fisher Scientific

About: Emma Degnan is a Chartered Marketer with over 10 years of experience across various industries, including recruitment, financial services, and hospitality. She currently serves as Senior Marketing Campaign Specialist at Thermo Fisher Scientific and is a regional board member for the Chartered Institute of Marketing and a Coach & Mentor at Girls in Marketing.

Reason for Shortlisting: Emma has driven innovation in digital marketing for over 12 years, pushing boundaries within her role at Thermo Fisher Scientific by integrating augmented reality into customer experiences. She is also passionate about nurturing early talent through her volunteer work and mentorship, impacting the next generation of digital marketers.

Priya Guliani - EarthID

About: Priya Guliani is the CEO of EarthID, a multi-award-winning decentralized identity platform. With a background in digital leadership at Accenture and an education from MIT and Oxford, she is a recognized leader in the blockchain industry and a mentor at Women in Tech.

Reason for Shortlisting: Priya has revolutionized digital identity management, advancing social, financial, and digital inclusion through her work at EarthID. Her commitment to using technology for empowerment and inclusion, alongside her numerous accolades, highlights her exceptional contribution to the field.

Kelly Sheppard - Sleeping Giant Media

About: Kelly Sheppard is a Senior Technical SEO Lead at Sleeping Giant Media, specialising in entities and structured data. With a background in IT security and website design, Kelly has become a pioneer in SEO, delivering training workshops and speaking at major industry events.

Reason for Shortlisting: Kelly has implemented innovative SEO strategies, leading to significant traffic increases for clients. Her development of bespoke structured data processes has set new standards in the industry, and her dedication to continuous learning and sharing knowledge exemplifies her role as a digital innovator.

Heather Elder - Sleeping Giant Media

About: Heather Elder has over 16 years of experience in the digital world, specializing in account management, digital transformation, and agency operations. She is an Operations Manager at Sleeping Giant Media and a mental health first aider.

Reason for Shortlisting: Heather has made significant strides in her career while balancing family life, driving digital transformation projects, and advocating for mental health. Her innovative approach to operational efficiency and her commitment to education and mental health support make her a standout in the digital space.

Elmira Gazizova - keyIT SA

About: Elmira Gazizova is a Product Marketing Manager at keyIT SA, with a background in finance and digital marketing. She focuses on bringing innovation to clients through data, AI, digital workplace, and network security.

Reason for Shortlisting: Elmira has led numerous digital transformation projects, from automating financial systems to implementing cutting-edge marketing strategies. Her commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and educating others on AI communication showcases her as a leader in digital innovation.

Shelley Langan-Newton - SQR

About: Shelley Langan-Newton is the CEO of SQR, an award-winning cybersecurity company. With a diverse career spanning performing arts, tech, and telecoms, Shelley has led significant projects including building earth stations for SpaceX and transforming businesses through digital innovation.

Reason for Shortlisting: Shelley's journey from performing arts lecturer to tech leader exemplifies her adaptability and drive. Her leadership at SQR, dedication to cybersecurity, and commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity make her a powerful force in digital innovation.

Marzia Bolpagni - Mace

About: Marzia Bolpagni is a Civil Engineer specializing in digital construction and a leader in service excellence and innovation. She has authored EU standards in digital engineering and coordinates international volunteers in translating STEM concepts.

Reason for Shortlisting: Marzia's work in digital construction has had a global impact, from authoring key standards to mentoring the next generation of engineers. Her dedication to advancing the field and fostering international collaboration highlights her as a pivotal figure in digital innovation.

Wendy Blakely - Strategic Thinking

About: Wendy Blakely is a Registered Nurse and the Director of Strategic Thinking, an online clinical education platform. With a 30-year career in nursing, Wendy is passionate about educating and supporting health and social care staff.

Reason for Shortlisting: Wendy created the U-Matter portal to provide confidential support and resources for health and social care staff, demonstrating her commitment to mental health and wellbeing. Her innovative approach to clinical education and her empathy-driven initiatives have made a significant impact on the sector.

Sophie Thompson - The Independent

About: Sophie Thompson is a Journalist and Editor with experience at major publications like Glamour, Cosmopolitan, and The Independent. She leads social media strategy and AI integration in newsrooms, while also serving as Editor-in-Chief of BLUSH magazine.

Reason for Shortlisting: Sophie has pioneered the use of AI in journalism, significantly growing The Independent's digital presence. Her commitment to diversity and representation in media, along with her innovative content strategies, underscores her influence as a digital innovator.

Daisy Stapley-Bunten - Corporate Entertainment Professionals Ltd.

About: Daisy Stapley-Bunten is the COO of Corporate Entertainment Professionals, an entertainment agency specializing in bespoke experiences. She has a background in technology journalism and founded Startups Magazine.

Reason for Shortlisting: Daisy has driven transformative digital initiatives within her company, from implementing advanced CRM systems to integrating AI for HR processes. Her strategic vision and commitment to digital innovation have significantly enhanced operational efficiency and client experiences.

Aoife O'Brien - Happier at Work

About: Aoife O'Brien is the founder of Happier at Work, dedicated to solving employee disengagement through research-based frameworks. With a background in market research, she partners with leaders to enhance workplace culture, balance, and leadership.

Reason for Shortlisting: Aoife's innovative approach to improving workplace happiness through digital tools and data analytics has had a profound impact on employee engagement and productivity. Her dedication to creating positive work environments and supporting leaders highlights her role as a digital innovator.

Lizette Onesia Majoie ABOUE - Dnasty Group

About: Lizette Onesia Majoie ABOUE is a cybersecurity expert and creator of Blood Connect, a platform connecting blood donors, banks, and patients. She has interned at prestigious institutions and is recognized for her achievements in cybersecurity.

Reason for Shortlisting: Lizette's creation of Blood Connect showcases her ability to use digital innovation to address critical healthcare challenges. Her commitment to cybersecurity, mentorship, and social impact, alongside her numerous accolades, highlights her as a leader in digital innovation.

These extraordinary women have demonstrated remarkable achievements in digital innovation, showing how technology can be harnessed to create positive change in various industries. Their contributions not only push the boundaries of what is possible but also inspire others to pursue new opportunities and embrace continuous learning and adaptation. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to their continued impact on the digital landscape.

The Digital Women Awards are proud to celebrate these extraordinary individuals.