Lisa Nairn
As we step into a new year, this month’s theme of endeavour feels especially fitting for Ayrshire Business Women (ABW). Endeavour is more than ambition—it’s the relentless pursuit of progress, even when the path is challenging.
January is a natural time for reflection—looking back at what has been achieved, and forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. As we take a moment of pause, there is so much that ABW and its members can be proud of over the last 12 months.
A recent standout moment was when one of our members, The People Portfolio, won the prestigious “Most Enterprising Business” award at the Association of Scottish Businesswomen Annual Conference & Awards event, held in Perth in November. This accolade follows their recent success winning in the same category at ABW’s annual awards earlier in the year, and recognises a programme born from empathy and innovation: the Revive & Thrive programme. Designed to support women who have stepped away from employment due to menopause symptoms, the programme exemplifies how endeavour can transform lives and workplaces.
Morna said of the win: “For us, endeavour means creating solutions that empower women, foster inclusivity, and benefit businesses at the same time so we are thrilled with this accolade.”
Ayrshire Business Women were also recognised as Highly Commended for the Affiliate Group of the Year at the same event – which we are immensely proud of.
As President, this is also the perfect moment for me to recognise and give thanks to the commitment and creativity of the committee, who have worked tirelessly to strengthen the network and deliver meaningful initiatives for ABW’s members.
Over the past twelve months, ABW has:
- Re-launched their Annual Awards Programme, celebrating four inspiring winners at a sold-out event.
- Introduced The Wednesday Connection, a monthly coffee morning that’s already become a cornerstone of the calendar.
- Raised ABW’s profile through stalls at major events and partnerships with leading publications.
- Enhanced the member onboarding process for a more personalised welcome.
- Expanded workshops and networking opportunities, offering vital support for all, particularly sole traders and entrepreneurs.
As we look ahead to our January Wednesday Connection in Stewarton on 28th January, we invite members and guests to join us in embracing new beginnings. Endeavour is about showing up, lifting each other, and thriving together—and ABW is ready for another year of growth.
To find out more about the work of ABW and our upcoming events, please visit www.abw.org.uk.
Lisa leads Ayrshire Business Women as President, combining her 20+ years of corporate insight and small business know-how to champion women’s success throughout Ayrshire.
