Etta Cohen, the founder of ‘Forward Ladies’ has been awarded an OBE in recognition of her work.
Cohen, described as a leading light for women in business, founded ‘Forward Ladies’ in 1999, and began her organisation by meeting with locally employed women and women who had founded their own businesses.
Through ‘Forward Ladies’, Cohen now supports more than 1,300 business women across the country and hosts more than 300 events a year.
The name ‘Forward Ladies’ was suggested for Etta’s group because it reflects her determination to develop and encourage women from all levels of professional life. ‘Forward Ladies’ operates across 10 UK regions and believes that women from all cultures should play in the building of future prosperity
Cohen has worked tirelessly to organise training days, talks from inspirational business speakers and networking events to grow her organisation into the success it is today.
She also promotes diversity and equality at both regional and national levels, working closely with key government agencies. Cohen sits on a range of boards across different industries, including the Yorkshire Asian Business Association (YABA).
Speaking about Cohen’s achievements, Margot James, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Corporate Responsibility, said, “This honour is a tribute to Etta’s outstanding commitment to raising the profile of women in the work place.”
“As the world celebrates International Women’s Day this week, it’s important to remember how much more successful our economy is thanks to the increased contribution of women.”
“We need more women making decisions at the top of business, and people like Etta have the drive and vision to help make that happen.”
