Outstanding Achievement
Recognising an individual who has achieved something exceptional in their career or made a significant contribution to the travel industry.
Sponsored by
Nominations are open
AWTE Awards 2026
Celebrating the people making a difference across travel. And we need your help to find them.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 23 October 2026.
You don’t have to be an AWTE member to nominate someone or be nominated, and you can nominate yourself.
Who deserves recognition?
The people helping our industry thrive
We’re looking for people and organisations across the travel industry who are making a meaningful difference — achieving something exceptional, supporting others, championing positive change or creating opportunities for others to thrive.
At AWTE, we believe in a travel industry where every woman can thrive as their whole self, not just their job title. These awards recognise contribution, compassion, courage, leadership, generosity and the way people show up for others.
You don’t have to be an AWTE member to nominate someone or be nominated, and you can nominate yourself.
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The 2026 award categories
The Gillyan Shebbeare Award
Recognising an individual who embodies the spirit of AWTE and has made an outstanding contribution to supporting and developing others within the travel industry.
Sponsored by
Male Ally
Recognising a man who actively supports, champions and enables women and others around him to thrive through meaningful actions and positive contribution.
Sponsored by
Most Supportive Workplace
Recognising a business or organisation creating a genuinely supportive, inclusive and positive working environment where women can thrive, grow and progress.
Sponsored by
Community Champion
Recognising an individual who goes above and beyond to support the AWTE community through volunteering, mentoring, fundraising or other meaningful contribution.
Sponsored by
Sponsorship available — get in touch at hello@awte.org.uk
Rising Star of the Year
In partnership with ITT. Recognising an individual aged 30 or under who is making their mark in the travel industry and showing real potential for the future.
Sponsored by
How to nominate
Nominate yourself, a colleague, a leader or anyone else you believe deserves recognition. You can nominate someone for more than one category, but please submit a separate nomination for each.
You don’t have to be an AWTE member to nominate someone or be nominated, and you can nominate yourself.
The strongest nominations include specific examples, achievements and evidence of the difference they have made.
What happens next?
Once nominations close, the AWTE Board will create a shortlist for each category. Our independent judging panel will consider impact, evidence, contribution, relevance and overall distinction.
Winners will be announced at the AWTE Christmas Lunch on Friday 27 November 2026.
Nominate someone today
Think of someone who deserves a moment in the spotlight? Tell us about them.
You don’t have to be an AWTE member to nominate someone or be nominated, and you can nominate yourself.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 23 October 2026.