The awards have been launched by Bristol Women’s Voice to celebrate local women from all walks of life who inspire and improve the lives of those in their communities.
Suzanne Doyle, Executive Manager at the Students’ Union and Co-Chair of the LGBT+ network, was nominated for her work leading Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity initiatives. These include supporting events during LGBT+ History Month, coordinating the University’s support at Bristol Pride and helping improve the lives of LGBT+ Staff.
Procurement Manager in Finance Services, Rebecca Scott is also Co-Chair of the BAME Staff Advisory Group, part of the University Race Task Force group and participates in Athena SWAN activity. Across the city, she holds a range of community leadership roles, including School Governor at Bannerman Community Academy, Director of Autism Independence, and a Queens Power Lunch keynote speaker.
Samantha Budd, Chief Executive of Bristol Students’ Union holds non-executive and trustee roles across the city, including: membership of strategic advisory committees for the Higher Education Funding Council (HEFCE); trustee of NUS Charitable Services: board member of NUS Poverty Commission and a trustee of the Bristol Museums Development Trust.
Noelle Rumball, Chair of Bristol SU Trustees, is also Treasurer for Up Our Street, a Director for the Bristol Cable, a trustee for Fair Play South West, a school governor, and Head of Information and Advice at the University of the West of England.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Adviser Tina Hitchens, who nominated Suzanne and Rebecca, said: “Suzanne is motivated to support and make a difference for all LGBT+ staff and students.” She added: “We find Rebecca’s energy, enthusiasm and passion for inclusion truly impressive – she’s an inspiration.”
Suzanne said: "It is fantastic to be nominated as part of the Bristol Women’s Voice Wonderful Women Awards. I feel very touched.”
Rebecca commented: “I am honoured to receive this award for my voluntary work and contributions to the City of Bristol and its citizens.”
Samantha said: “I would like to thank the people who nominated me, it really means so much to know that they also value the things that are important to me. I also want to thank all the wonderful women that I know – friends, colleagues and family – as well as all those I don’t know who also deserve recognition.”
Noelle said: "It's an honour to be named alongside all these wonderful women! Bristol has such a richness of women dedicated to making our city and our world a better place to live in."