NOMINATIONS are being sought for the most inspiring local woman.

In recognition of International Women’s Day on March 8, which falls within Fairtrade Fortnight, Ilkley Soroptimists and Ilkley Fairtrade Group, have teamed up to find the most inspiring local woman in Burley-in Wharfedale, Ilkley and Addingham.

International Women’s Day is a day when women are recognised for their achievement without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, cultural, economic or political. This year it falls within Fairtrade Fortnight and ties in with the Fairtrade Foundation’s new ‘she deserves a living income’ campaign. Through the Fairtrade initiative, women are leading the way in developing their communities and inspiring the next generation.

Inspired by women in developing countries, Ilkley Fairtrade Group and Ilkley Soroptimists are eager to find the most inspiring woman who lives in Ilkley, Burley or Addingham. Some one who has made a significant, positive impact on her local community and tangibly improved peoples lives, whether social, environmental or economic.

To nominate someone, simply email the name of your nominee and relevant information to: soroptimistilkley@gmail.com, or drop it off at Ilkley Library. Include your name, contact information, together with up to 500 words as to why your nominee is so inspiring. The closing date for entries is Friday, March 22, 2019.

Suzanne Watson of Approach PR, a Yorkshire Soroptimist and a nominee of Fairtrade have agreed to judge the entries.

The winner will be announced on April 11 and receive a hamper of Fairtrade goodies, kindly donated by local supermarkets.

Other events taking place to support Fairtrade Fortnight (February 25 to March 10) include a Fairtrade afternoon tea and chocolate tasting at St. John’s Church, Ben Rhydding, on March 2 from 2.30pm to 4pm, a Traidcraft Stall in Christchurch Foyer on Saturday, March 9 from 11am to 2pm and a joint Soroptimists and Fairtrade Group community stall at the Real Food Ilkley market, on Sunday, March 3 from 10am to 3pm where there will be a raffle for Fairtrade Goods.

For more information about the nominations process, events, Ilkley Soroptimists and Ilkley Fairtrade Group, email soroptimistilkley@gmail.com or ilkleyfairtradegroup@gmail.com