Three Surrey residents announced as finalists in the 2024 everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: WOMEN IN TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

The finalists for the 2024 everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards have been announced. Now in their 17th year, the awards were launched to shine a spotlight on the varied and increasing avenues of opportunities available in the traditionally male-dominated industry and celebrate the important role that women play within it. Despite industry progress, only 23% of the industry’s 1.5million employees identify as women, more than half of these women are in non-transport roles, and alarmingly 54% of organisations lack formal targets, commitments, or quotas for gender diversity.[1]

Maxine Benson MBE, Co-Founder of everywoman commented:

“Studies consistently demonstrate that diverse teams foster greater creativity, problem-solving abilities, employee engagement, and overall profitability within organizations. The economic benefits of equalising the labour force could lead to potential gains of 10% of GDP by 2030.[2] Attracting, retaining, and advancing women has the power to fuel progress, unlock innovation and drive growth, not just for organisations but for the UK economy. Now in our 25th year, everywoman continues to play a significant part in recognising exceptional women whose innovation, skills, resilience, and leadership will inspire future generations of women to fulfil their career ambitions in vibrant and dynamic industries. We thank our sponsors for their continued support and look forward to celebrating these exceptional women.”

There will be two winners per category (Leader and Above & Beyond) and one recipient of the Tech Innovator, International Inspiration, Industry Champion, Male Agent of Change, Apprentice of the Year, and Sustainability Champion.

Three Surrey locals have been announced as finalists in this year's awards programme.

Pictured left to right: Magdalena, Bobbie, Sophie-Louise

• Magdalena Nowak, Operations Trainer at South Western Railway, from Basingstoke is a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year Award category, sponsored by UKWA

Magdalena is a dynamic professional who embarked on a career journey from Health Care to Railways. In 2018, she transitioned to the Railway Industry as a Commercial Guard. Magdalena’s dedication led her to secure an Apprenticeship with SWR and promotion to Guards Manager role at Waterloo Station. Graduating with distinction in Leadership and Management, she earned Chartered Manager status with CMI. In her free time, she volunteers with YRP and engages in creative projects to promote the railway sector

• Bobbie Costin, Customs Brokerage Specialist at C. H. Robinson, from Feltham is a finalist in the International Inspiration Award category, sponsored by Maersk

Bobbie Costin, a Customs Brokerage Specialist, boasts over 7 years of experience in the industry. Beginning as a customs apprentice, she obtained qualifications in business administration and has since pursued additional certifications in customs compliance. Bobbie is also an ambassador for BIFA and generation logistics, actively supporting local schools and charities like SPARK.

• Sophie-Louise Farish, Logistics Warrant Officer at British Army – Royal Logistics Corps, from Aldershot is a finalist in The Supply Chain Award (Above & Beyond) category, sponsored by Unipart Rail

Warrant Officer 2 Sophie-Louise Farish has served 22 years in the British Army as a logistician and has led logistical teams in two wars, three operations, and multi overseas deployments, regularly travelling the world, providing advice and guidance in her field. Proudly supporting youth organisations, she regularly assists the Cadet Force. An advocate for equality, she is an Army equality and diversity advisor. She is married to Jon, with 3 children ensuring she always kept busy.

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony and luncheon held on 27th June 2024 at the brand-new location of the Park Plaza London Riverbank. For further information, or to book tickets for this networking event and celebration, visit www.everywoman.com/tlawards.

[1] Equity Index Report, 2023

[2] The Transport Infrastructure Skills Strategy (TISS) 2016