Poonam Kaur, Managing Director of fds was announced as a finalist in the Mentor of the Year category for the regional Forward Ladies National Awards & Summit 2019 awards.

The Forward Ladies Mentor of the Year Award identifies women who have a track record in mentoring and developing future leaders of industry.

Poonam commented “I am so proud to be a finalist in this category which recognises my career journey and accomplishments. This acknowledgment is icing on the cake, as this year fds is celebrating its 30^th year of business, so it’s already an amazing year for our business”.

Forward Ladies Managing Director, Griselda Togobo, revealed the 56 shortlisted applicants who will now compete for ten prestigious awards. Griselda explained: “Since launching in 2009, these are the only business awards to recognise those leaders and organisations who have made the greatest impact on the regional and wider UK economy over the last 12 months.

“For another year running, we have received some excellent entries from businesses large and small, and from individuals at all stages in their career journey. All of those who have been shortlisted this year can be immensely proud of their success and all they have achieved.”

The shortlisted applicants in each of the categories will be invited to an exclusive awards lunch on Friday 20^thSeptember at the Crowne Plaza, Newcastle. The winners from this, and the other regional finals, will then be invited to appear before a live panel of independent judges in November, followed by the National Grand Final in Leeds on 29^th November.