In collaboration with the Universal Education Equity Foundation (UEEF) and 91.9 Friends FM, philanthropist Sri Bharat J. Mehra presented the seventh edition of the Inspiring Women Achievers Awards (IWAA), which was organized by SHE (Shagufta Hanaphie Events) and conceived by well-known social activist, PR specialist, and event designer Ms. Shagufta Hanaphie. The event was powered by St. Sebastian School and co-associated with the Alok Foundation and Best Friendz Society. The esteemed award ceremony took place at Kolkata’s Rotary Sadan.

Distinguished industry leaders, corporate executives, academics, institutions, and professionals from various fields were all graciously present that evening. Participants in the celebration of women’s empowerment, leadership, and social transformation included entrepreneurs, representatives from financial institutions, social organizations, and members of civil society.

“Today’s women are leading transformative strategies and championing equity and sustainability. Diverse viewpoints result in stronger and more resilient organizations, as demonstrated by women in leadership roles,” said Bharat J. Mehra.

The Chairperson of IWAA, Shagufta Hanaphie, emphasized that these programs are not only intended to honor female achievers but also to produce motivating role models who inspire the next generation to pursue leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and social responsibility.

“The true essence of the Inspiring Women Achievers Awards lies not merely in celebrating success, but in recognizing courage, compassion, resilience, and the silent determination of women who transform lives and communities through their actions. Every woman honored here in Education 5.0 will serve as an inspiration to coming generations,” said Dr. Bratati Bhattacharya.

Seven notable women from Kolkata were honored at the award ceremony for their exceptional accomplishments:

Smita Chatterji – Visionary Leader

Aradhana Chatterjee – Digital Icon

Yachna Lakhotia – Entrepreneur of the Year

Dr. Nandini Kanoria – Health Icon

Smriti Kunz – Edupreneur of the Year

Runjhun Gupta –Architect and  Interior Designer of the Year

Addl. SP, WB Police Santi Das – Nation’s Service Award

Additionally, the event successfully gathered over 300 books for impoverished children and youth and raised awareness through its NGO partner, Best Friendz Society. Through local partners, these books were given to several libraries and social organizations, including:

Humanity Foundation, Kolkata

Ek Takar School, Joynagar

Asit Bhuiyan, Patharpratima

Ma Manasha Sechha Seba Samity, Kanpur

Ashina Library, Falta

Young student Sumana Jana from Kanpur village gave a moving performance that evening, and a group of well-known city educators known as H3M gave a beautiful presentation.

The awards were only given out by invitation, and more than 100 nominations were obtained via recommendations from honorary advisors and previous winners. In order to ensure fairness, transparency, and credibility in the selection of awardees, the advisory panel, which was made up of notable individuals from a variety of professional backgrounds, conducted a rigorous three-layer judging process.

The advisory team included Dr. Bratati Bhattacharyya, Group Director, JIS Management Institute & Founder, UEEF; Dr. Chaitali Das, Internationally Acclaimed Jute Revivalist; and Mrs. Seema Bahri, Founder, The Basic Funda & Social Activist.

Congratulations to the awardees!!

Priyanka Dutta