Who can be nominated
Women four to fifteen years into their careers, with Black women at its heart.
- SectorsFinance, law, consulting, technology, business and entrepreneurship
- LevelAssociate through to director, partner and founder
- WhereUK-wide
- Who can nominateAnyone, including yourself and your employer
The awards
40 honourees. Nine awards.
Finance Leader of the YearLaw Leader of the YearInnovation & Technology Leader of the YearBrand & Commercial Leader of the YearEnterprise Leader of the YearEmerging Leader of the YearStudents and graduates up to two years after graduatingWCAN Choice AwardFirm of the YearWCAN Partner of the YearEvery nominee is judged on the same four things, and sponsorship never buys a place.
Achievement
Evidence of excellence and impact in her field.
Trajectory
The scale and direction of her professional progression.
Influence
Her contribution to colleagues, organisations, industries or communities.
Future potential
Evidence that her greatest contribution may still be ahead.
Nominations now open
Nominate a woman who deserves to be seen.
It takes about three minutes. Nominate a colleague, a manager, a friend or yourself. Every nomination is read by our judges against the same four criteria.
Nominations close 15 January 2027 · The 40 announced late February · Awards evening spring 2027, London
Nomination received.
Thank you. We've emailed you a copy. Know someone else who deserves it? Nominate again.
Not nominating? Register for awards tickets or partnership
You're on the list.
We'll be in touch with tickets and partnership details.
2027 partnerships now open
40 women. One room. A much bigger story.
Partner with WCAN40 to build visibility with high-performing professional women, recognise exceptional people inside your organisation and create content for your employer brand. Launch partner commitments close 30 November 2026.