Published 18th Apr 2024
GWPR’s founders have received well deserved recognition with a PRovoke Media Individual Achievement SABRE Award. Sue Hardwick was presented with the award at the In2 EMEA SABRE Awards in London last night on behalf of both herself and, posthumously, co-founder Angela Oakes.
PRovoke Media’s award announcement highlighted Sue and Angela’s passion in campaigning against the lack of women in boardrooms and other significant issues affecting women working in the PR industry.
Cornela Kunze, chair of GWPR’s International Board, founder of communications firm I-Sekai and former Edelman leader, said: “Angela and Sue have been two visionaries who not only foresaw the potential for a global network of women in PR, but also poured their hearts and souls into making it a reality. Their foresight, their network, and their undeniable influence have empowered countless women in our profession across the world.
“Global Woman in PR stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive community for women in a profession that – despite strides made – continues to grapple with unconscious bias, gender-specific limitations, and outright discrimination. 
We miss Angela and will always remember that together, she and Sue built a remarkable legacy that continues to empower all of us.”
GWPR Executive Board member Sonya Madeira, founder of Singapore-based Rice Communications, added: “I was a fan of Global Women in PR from the time I heard about it. It takes an amazing woman to build a network of connections and collaborations working towards a common purpose that will long outlast her and that is exactly what both Angela and Sue have done. Both women could have sailed off into the sunset, but instead they chose to stay in the industry as a mentors and role models and create something far bigger than themselves.
“We need more women championing women, and Angela and Sue really have been flag bearers in this regard. I have nothing but admiration for them and am so delighted to see their efforts being acknowledged.”
